Pin this A creamy, comforting casserole featuring tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and fluffy rice, all baked together in a simple homemade sauce. Perfect for weeknights and budget-friendly family meals.
I remember making this casserole for family gatherings because everyone loved the combination of creamy sauce, fresh broccoli, and hearty chicken. It quickly became our go-to dinner whenever we wanted something cozy and satisfying.
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Ingredients
- Protein: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded (about 300 g)
- Vegetables: 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, about 200 g), 1 small onion, finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Grains: 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked, 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- Simple Sauce: 1 can (10.5 oz/300 g) condensed cream of chicken soup (or homemade equivalent), 1 cup milk, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- Seasonings: 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Topping: 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional), 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for topping)
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Instructions
- Prep Oven and Dish:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Cook Aromatics:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, saute the onion in a splash of oil until soft, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, broccoli florets, sauteed onion and garlic, uncooked rice, chicken broth, condensed soup, milk, cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble:
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Prepare Topping:
- If using, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole. Top with extra cheddar cheese if desired.
- Bake:
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the rice is tender, the casserole is bubbling, and the top is golden.
- Rest and Serve:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Pin this This casserole has been a favorite in our family for years. My kids always request it for their birthday dinners, and it's perfect for sharing at potlucks or holiday gatherings.
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Required Tools
Use a large bowl for mixing, a skillet for sauteing aromatics, and a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish to bake the casserole. Don't forget measuring cups and aluminum foil.
Allergen Information
Contains milk (cheese, milk, soup), wheat (condensed soup, breadcrumbs if used), and chicken (poultry). Always check labels if you have allergies, and choose gluten-free replacements if needed.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 470, Total Fat: 19 g, Carbohydrates: 43 g, Protein: 29 g
Pin this 
Serve this casserole hot straight out of the oven, and pair with a crisp salad or your favorite wine for an easy and cozy dinner.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → Can I use frozen broccoli in this dish?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well; just thaw and drain excess water before mixing to prevent sogginess.
- → What type of cheese is recommended?
Sharp cheddar cheese adds rich flavor and melts nicely, creating a creamy texture throughout.
- → How can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free condensed soup and substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives or omit them entirely.
- → Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the mixture and refrigerate before baking. Bake fresh just prior to serving for best results.
- → Can I substitute brown rice here?
Brown rice can be used, but increase the baking time and add more liquid to ensure it cooks fully.
