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Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

  • Total Time: 90 minutes
  • Yield: 8-10 servings 1x

Description

Comforting, cheesy Chicken, Rice, and Broccoli Casserole, perfect for family dinner. Features tender chicken, fluffy rice, roasted broccoli, and a rich, homemade cheese sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 cup long-grain rice, uncooked
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets (about 4 cups)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
  • 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
  • 4 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the chicken cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until cooked through and lightly browned (7-10 minutes). Set aside.
  3. Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the uncooked rice, chicken broth, and salt. Bring to a boil.
  4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  5. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
  6. Prepare the Broccoli: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and cut broccoli into florets.
  7. In a large bowl, toss broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  8. Spread broccoli on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender-crisp and lightly browned.
  9. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  10. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  11. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
  12. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.
  13. Stir in salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
  14. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth.
  15. Assemble the Casserole: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  16. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, cooked rice, roasted broccoli, and cheese sauce.
  17. Pour into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
  18. Prepare the Topping (Optional): In a small bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter. Sprinkle over the casserole.
  19. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and topping is golden brown (if using).
  20. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.
  • If you prefer, steam the broccoli instead of roasting it. Steam for 5-7 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
  • Be careful not to burn the roux when making the cheese sauce, as this will give the sauce a bitter taste.
  • Adjust the seasonings in the cheese sauce to your liking.
  • The Ritz cracker topping is optional, but it adds a nice crunchy texture and buttery flavor.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes

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Find it online: https://recipesgrape.com/chicken-broccoli-rice-casserole/