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

1. Melt two tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook for two minutes until soft.
3. Push onions aside and add bite-sized chicken pieces, cooking for 6-8 minutes until browned.
4. Transfer chicken to a plate, keeping onions in the skillet. Stir onions occasionally.
5. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for one minute until aromatic.
6. In a separate saucepan, boil two cups of water, one tablespoon of butter, and half a teaspoon of salt.
7. Add uncooked long-grain white rice, stir, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes until water is absorbed.
8. Steam four cups of broccoli florets until tender.
9. In a medium saucepan, melt four tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-low heat.
10. Add four tablespoons of all-purpose flour to create a roux, whisking for 2-3 minutes until golden.
11. Stir in a quarter teaspoon of crushed red pepper, half a teaspoon of onion powder, marjoram, and thyme.
12. Gradually whisk in 1 and ¼ cups of chicken broth and 2 cups of milk until smooth and thickened.
13. Lower heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted.
14. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, rice, broccoli, and cheese sauce.
15. Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare a 9x13 inch casserole dish.
16. Layer half of the chicken mixture in the dish and sprinkle with half a cup of cheddar cheese.
17. Add remaining chicken mixture and top with another half cup of cheddar cheese.
18. Mix one sleeve of crushed Ritz crackers with four tablespoons of melted butter.
19. Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the casserole.
20. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

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!