Description

Imagine a warm, inviting casserole that evokes nostalgia and brings comfort to your dining table—a dish that not only tastes absolutely delicious but also warms your heart with its familiar flavors. The Scrumptious Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a vibrant blend of succulent chicken, tender broccoli, and fluffy rice, all enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce that ties everything together beautifully. This dish is perfect for a family dinner, a potluck gathering, or a cozy weeknight meal. It's packed with nutrients from the broccoli and protein from the chicken, making it not just tasty, but also wholesome.

What makes this casserole truly special is its ease of preparation. In just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that looks as beautiful as it tastes. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this casserole is versatile and adaptable. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or using different cheeses depending on your preferences. It’s a truly delightful experience that infuses your kitchen with tantalizing aromas and promises satisfaction with every bite.

Ingredients

• For the Chicken and Rice Mixture:
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1.5 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 4 cups broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
• For the Cheese Sauce:
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried marjoram
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• 1 ¼ cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• For the Topping:
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed (32 crackers)
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted

Preparation Method

Begin your culinary adventure by preparing the chicken and rice mixture. Start by melting two tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. As the butter gently sizzles, add the chopped onion and allow it to cook for about two minutes until it’s soft and translucent. This initial step infuses your kitchen with a savory aroma that will have everyone eagerly waiting for dinner.

Once the onions are ready, push them to the side of the skillet. Now it’s time to add the bite-sized pieces of chicken. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, turning it halfway to ensure even browning on all sides. If your skillet seems crowded, don’t hesitate to work in batches to achieve that perfect golden crust.

After the chicken is browned and cooked through, transfer it to a plate while keeping the onions in the skillet. Stir the onions occasionally to prevent them from sticking or burning. Add the minced garlic to the skillet, letting it mingle with the onions. Cook for about a minute—just enough time to release its incredible fragrance—while being careful not to let it burn. Once the garlic is aromatic, join the chicken back on the plate with the cooked onions.

Meanwhile, in a separate saucepan, bring two cups of water, one tablespoon of butter, and half a teaspoon of salt to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, add your uncooked long-grain white rice, stirring gently to combine. Cover the saucepan and reduce the heat to low, allowing it to simmer for 12-15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. This fluffy rice will serve as the perfect base for your casserole.

As the rice is cooking, it’s the ideal time to prepare the broccoli. Steam four cups of broccoli florets until they’re tender but still vibrant in color. You can steam them either on the stovetop or in the microwave—whichever you prefer. The bright green broccoli not only adds a pop of color to your dish but also provides an additional layer of nutrition.

In the next phase, let’s create the star of the show: the cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt four tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-low heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the four tablespoons of all-purpose flour to create a roux. Whisk the mixture continuously for 2-3 minutes until it thickens and turns a light golden color. This is where the magic begins, as the roux will give your cheese sauce that creamy, velvety texture.

Add depth to your sauce with seasonings: introduce a quarter teaspoon of crushed red pepper for a hint of heat, half a teaspoon of onion powder, half a teaspoon of dried marjoram, and half a teaspoon of dried thyme leaves into the roux. Stir them together to unleash the aromatic elements of each spice.

Next, it's time to add the liquids. Gradually whisk in 1 and ¼ cups of low-sodium chicken broth followed by 2 cups of milk, alternating between the two as you whisk to create a smooth mixture. Keep whisking until the concoction is perfectly smooth, showing signs of thickening.

Finally, lower the heat to low and incorporate 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir the mixture until the cheese is melted and fully welcomes itself into the sauce, creating a rich, cheesy blend that beckons for the chicken and rice mixture.

Now, it’s time to assemble your casserole masterpiece. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, rice, and broccoli with the irresistible cheese sauce, stirring gently but thoroughly to ensure every morsel is well coated with cheesy goodness.

Prepare your baking dish by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 9x13 inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray or lightly grease it with butter to prevent any sticking. Begin layering the casserole by scooping half of the chicken mixture into the prepared dish. For a cheesy surprise, sprinkle half a cup of cheddar cheese over this layer. Follow with the remaining chicken mixture, and finish off with another generous sprinkle of cheddar cheese.

For the ultimate crunchy topping, take one sleeve of crushed Ritz crackers and combine it with four tablespoons of melted butter. Mix them well until the crushed crackers are completely coated in butter, ensuring each bite has that wonderful flaky texture. Sprinkle this buttery cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole, adding a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy layers underneath.

Finally, transfer the casserole into your preheated oven. Bake it for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly, emitting an irresistible aroma that will have your mouth watering in anticipation.

Tips and Conclusion

For added flavor and nutrition, consider incorporating other veggies into the casserole. Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even peas can complement the dish beautifully. Additionally, if you're aiming for a lighter option, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, although you may need to adjust the water and cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook. Leftovers? No problem! This casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just reheat in the oven until it warms through, and you’ll enjoy it just like the first day.
Preparing the Scrumptious Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is not just about cooking; it’s an experience that brings comfort and joy to your table. Each step offers opportunities to savor the delightful scents and vibrant colors as they come together in perfect harmony. When you take that first bite, the flavors explode in a joyous symphony that will have you craving for more.

As you make this dish, don't forget to explore more fantastic recipes on our site, from classic comfort food to innovative twists, each crafted to inspire your culinary journey. Share this recipe with your friends and family, encouraging them to enjoy the delightful art of home cooking. The kitchen is where we create memories, and with each recipe, we weave a tapestry of flavors. So, grab your apron, gather your loved ones, and embark on a delicious adventure with us!