Savory Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole for Cozy Nights
Savory Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights in. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and fluffy rice all enveloped in a creamy sauce, topped with melted cheese for a deliciously satisfying meal. Ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this casserole is easy to prepare and customize with your favorite ingredients. Get ready to enjoy a warm hug in a bowl that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown, about 6-7 minutes per side. Let rest for five minutes before dicing.
- In a bowl, mix together cooked rice, diced chicken, broccoli florets, cream of chicken soup, half of the shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with remaining cheese.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Allow to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approx. 240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: For added richness, use homemade broth instead of water when cooking rice. You can substitute chicken with turkey or plant-based proteins like tofu or chickpeas for variations. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.