Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole

This Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole. Is like a warm hug. On a cool evening. Imagine tender chunks of chicken. And fresh, bright broccoli. Nestled in a bed of fluffy rice. All smothered in a rich, velvety cheddar sauce. Every bite. Is a delightful mix of creamy texture. And comforting flavors. Perfect for gathering the family. Around the dinner table. It's not just a meal. It's a moment to pause. And savor the simple joys. Of homemade comfort food.

5 from 1 vote

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Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole

Prep Time: 10

Cook Time: 50

Total Time: 1

Servings: PEOPLE

Ingredients

2 tbsp butter
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts or 2 c diced rotisserie chicken
1 tsp Italian Seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 1/2 c chicken broth
1 tbsp olive oil
1 1/4 c white long grain rice uncooked
2 c fresh broccoli florets uncooked
10.5 ounces Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup
½ c milk
½ c sour cream
2 c shredded cheddar cheese separated

Optional Seasonings:

1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp garlic powder

Casserole Topping:

1 c Ritz crackers crushed
2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F.

Prepare the Chicken:

If using fresh chicken. Cut into bite-sized pieces. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
In a pot. Melt butter over medium heat. Cook the chicken. Until golden brown. About 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
If using rotisserie chicken. Skip the cooking step. And just prepare it for the casserole.

Cook the Rice:

In the same pot. Add chicken broth and olive oil. Bring to a boil.
Add rice. Reduce heat. Simmer covered for 6 minutes.
Add broccoli. Cover again. Continue cooking for 9 more minutes. Or until the rice is tender. And the liquid is absorbed.

Combine Ingredients:

Turn off the heat. Mix in the cooked chicken (if using rotisserie chicken, add it now), cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, optional seasonings, and half of the cheddar cheese.

Assemble the Casserole:

Transfer the mixture. To a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.

Bake:

Cover the dish. And bake for 15 minutes.
While it bakes. Prepare the topping by mixing crushed crackers with melted butter.
Remove the cover. Add the cracker topping. Bake uncovered. For an additional 10 minutes. Until the topping is golden.

Serve:

Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. To set the flavors and texture.

Notes

To enjoy a gluten-free version. Of this Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole. You’ll need to make a couple of simple swaps. First, replace the regular condensed cream of chicken soup. With a gluten-free alternative. Which is readily available in most health food sections. At grocery stores. For the topping. Instead of using Ritz crackers. Opt for your favorite gluten-free crackers. Crush them up. For that delightful crunch. Lastly, ensure that your chicken broth. And any other packaged ingredients. Are certified gluten-free. With these adjustments. You can relish this comforting casserole. Without any gluten concerns. Keeping the same delicious taste. And texture. That everyone can enjoy!