Description

A creamy, hearty, and beginner-proof one-pot meal that combines tender rice, savory chicken, and broccoli in a rich cheddar sauce. This forgiving casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners and leftovers.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups long-grain white rice (uncooked)
3 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
2 large chicken breasts or 4 thighs, diced (or 3–4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken)
2 cups frozen broccoli florets
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Topping: ½ cup panko breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons melted butter, ½ cup extra cheddar cheese

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
In a medium pot, bring 3 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Add the uncooked rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until tender and liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
While rice cooks, dice chicken into bite-sized pieces. If using fresh broccoli, chop into small florets; if using frozen, measure out without thawing.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, diced chicken, and broccoli.
Add the cream of mushroom soup, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly coated.
Stir in 1.5 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese on top. If using breadcrumbs, toss with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Cover with foil if browning too quickly.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow sauce to thicken.

Notes

Cooking the rice beforehand is crucial to ensure it is fully tender and doesn’t absorb all the sauce during baking. Grate your own cheese for better melting; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. If using fresh broccoli, steam it first to prevent excess water. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to help it set.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1
Calories: 450
Sugar: 3
Sodium: 600
Fat: 20
Saturated Fat: 10
Carbohydrates: 40
Fiber: 3
Protein: 25

Keywords: chicken casserole, broccoli rice, cheesy casserole, one-pot meal, comfort food, easy dinner, family friendly