Description
This Chicken and Broccoli Cheesy Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly dish combining tender cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, and cooked rice in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Topped with melted cheddar and optional buttery crackers, it’s a satisfying main course perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 3 cups broccoli florets, steamed until just tender
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs (optional)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (if using cracker topping)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until all ingredients are fully incorporated and evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the combined mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Add Optional Topping: If using the cracker topping, combine the crushed buttery crackers with melted butter and sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese layer for a crunchy finish.
- Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese topping is fully melted and slightly golden.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set and ensure safe serving temperature.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken works excellently as a time-saving option for the cooked chicken.
- Quinoa can be substituted for rice for a different texture and nutritional boost.
- If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding to avoid excess moisture.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat if desired.
