This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that makes for a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, looking for an easy weeknight dish, or preparing comfort food that the whole family will love, this casserole is sure to please. With tender chicken thighs, fresh broccoli, and creamy rice all baked in a rich cheese sauce, it’s a dish that stands out in both taste and simplicity.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Hearty: This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole provides a warm, filling meal that satisfies hunger and cravings.
- One-Pan Convenience: With everything cooked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze. Less mess means more time to enjoy your meal!
- Flavorful Cheese Sauce: The blend of cheddar and Boursin cheeses creates a creamy sauce that’s rich in flavor and perfectly coats every ingredient.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to suit your taste. This recipe is versatile enough to adapt to what you have on hand.
- Great for Meal Prep: This casserole keeps well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for preparing meals ahead of time.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the following tools before starting. These essential pieces of equipment will help you create this delicious Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole efficiently.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Large mixing bowl
- Casserole dish
- Measuring cups
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: Ideal for cooking the chicken and creating the creamy cheese sauce in one go, saving time on dishes.
- Large Mixing Bowl: Perfect for combining all ingredients thoroughly before transferring them to the casserole dish.
- Casserole Dish: Ensures even baking while making it easy to serve directly from the oven.
Ingredients
This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole features simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together beautifully.
Main Ingredients
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 5-6 chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup chicken stock
Creamy Base Ingredients
- 1 10.5 oz can cream of chicken with herbs
- 1 10.5 oz heavy cream (add heavy cream to cream of chicken can to measure)
- 1 1/2 cup cheddar cheese (mild or medium)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/3 cup Boursin cheese
Seasoning and Extras
- 3 tbsp Bayou City all-purpose seasoning (divided)
- 1 tbsp Bayou City garlic pepper
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne
Vegetables and Grains
- 4 cups broccoli florets (cooked)
- 4 cups white rice (cooked)
Final Touches
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
How to Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375 F (190 C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with olive oil and 2 tablespoons of Bayou City all-purpose seasoning. Cook the chicken thighs for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic and Deglaze
Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet, allow it to cool slightly, then shred or chop into bite-sized pieces. In the same skillet, add minced garlic over medium heat until fragrant (about 2 minutes). Pour in chicken stock to deglaze the pan, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom. Let it reduce for about 4 minutes.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Add cream of chicken soup with herbs into the skillet along with heavy cream (measured from the empty soup can). Stir well until combined. Add Boursin cheese and half of shredded cheddar cheese; stir until melted and smooth.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, cooked broccoli, and shredded chicken. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over this mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated. Season with Bayou City seasonings, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper as needed.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Transfer this mixture into a large casserole dish evenly spreading it out. Sprinkle remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover with aluminum foil and bake in preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove foil afterward and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until top is bubbly and slightly golden.
Step 7: Serve
Once baked, remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving hot. Optionally garnish with chopped fresh parsley and sprinkle paprika for an added touch.
Enjoy your homemade Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole!
How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Serving Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is simple and enjoyable. This delicious dish can be presented in various ways to enhance your dining experience.
Family Style
- Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a casual, family-style meal.
- Let everyone scoop out their portion, making it perfect for sharing.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives on top before serving.
- This not only adds color but also a fresh flavor that complements the casserole.
With a Side Salad
- Pair the casserole with a crisp garden salad.
- A light vinaigrette will balance the richness of the dish, adding a refreshing element.
Individual Portions
- For an elegant touch, serve in individual ramekins.
- This makes for a lovely presentation, especially for dinner parties or special occasions.
Accompanied by Bread Rolls
- Offer warm bread rolls or garlic bread alongside the casserole.
- The bread is great for soaking up any extra sauce left on the plate.
How to Perfect Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Perfecting your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole can take this comforting dish to another level. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out wonderfully every time.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh chicken and high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
- Cook Broccoli Al Dente: Slightly undercook the broccoli before mixing it in. It will retain its crunch after baking.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before mixing everything together. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier.
- Add Extra Cheese: For a cheesier experience, feel free to add more cheddar or even mozzarella on top before baking.
- Experiment with Spices: While cayenne adds heat, consider adding other spices like paprika or Italian seasoning for extra depth.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Complementing your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole with tasty side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some delightful options to consider.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, it’s perfect for mopping up sauce.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with creamy dressing provides a nice contrast.
- Steamed Green Beans: Lightly seasoned green beans add color and nutrition.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and balances richness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender pair perfectly with this dish.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds sweetness and is fun to eat!
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes can complement the casserole’s texture nicely.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad brings a sweet note that contrasts well with savory flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Creating the perfect Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole can be easier with some careful attention. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:
- Using uncooked chicken: Always ensure your chicken is fully cooked before shredding. This ensures safety and proper texture in the casserole.
- Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season every layer of your dish. Adding salt, pepper, and other spices enhances the overall flavor.
- Not measuring liquids properly: Use accurate measurements for chicken stock and cream. Too much liquid can result in a watery casserole.
- Overcooking the broccoli: Cook broccoli just until tender before adding it to the casserole. This keeps it vibrant and prevents mushiness.
- Neglecting resting time: Allow the casserole to rest after baking. This helps flavors meld and makes serving easier.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
- You can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
- The casserole will maintain quality for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or stock if needed to loosen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole:
Can I use different types of cheese?
You can certainly mix cheeses! Consider using mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
You can use homemade cream sauce or mushroom soup as alternatives if you prefer not to use canned soup.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make it healthier, consider using brown rice instead of white rice and low-fat dairy products.
Is Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This dish stores well and is ideal for meal prepping since it’s easy to reheat throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. Give it a try; you’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how satisfying it feels!
Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish that brings together tender chicken thighs, fresh broccoli, and creamy rice all enveloped in a rich cheese sauce. This one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, delivering heartwarming flavors that everyone will adore. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also highly customizable—add your favorite veggies or tweak the spices to suit your family’s palate. Plus, this casserole is great for meal prep, keeping well in the fridge or freezer for those busy days when you need a quick and satisfying dinner. Enjoy a delightful blend of taste and convenience with this crowd-pleasing recipe!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 5-6 chicken thighs
- 4 cups cooked broccoli florets
- 4 cups cooked white rice
- 1 can cream of chicken soup with herbs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup Boursin cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup chicken stock
- 3 tbsp Bayou City all-purpose seasoning (divided)
- 1 tbsp Bayou City garlic pepper
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, melt butter and cook seasoned chicken thighs until fully cooked. Shred or chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté minced garlic in the same skillet, deglaze with chicken stock, then add cream of chicken soup, heavy cream, Boursin cheese, and half the cheddar cheese; stir until smooth.
- In a mixing bowl, combine rice, broccoli, and chicken; pour in the cheese sauce and mix well.
- Transfer to a casserole dish, top with remaining cheddar cheese, cover with foil, and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
