This chicken and broccoli rice bake is your answer to a comforting and complete weeknight casserole dinner recipe. It’s a flavorful, one-pan meal that brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy rice, all baked to golden perfection. You’ll love how easy it is to assemble and how satisfying it tastes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken Breast: Use boneless, skinless thighs for extra juiciness.
- Broccoli Florets: Frozen broccoli works just as well; no need to thaw.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: Cream of mushroom or celery soup can be substituted for a different flavor profile.
- Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth is an excellent alternative.
- White Rice: Brown rice will require a longer baking time and more liquid.
- Cheese: Cheddar cheese is classic, but you can use Monterey Jack or a blend.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of chicken soup, undiluted
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Spices:
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Tools Needed: 9×13 inch baking dish, large mixing bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking, ensuring an easy cleanup for this delicious casserole dinner recipe.
2. Combine the Base Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cooked chicken, broccoli florets, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, uncooked rice, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir everything until it’s well combined and the rice is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
3. Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the chicken and rice mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure everything bakes consistently. This uniform spread helps create a perfect casserole.
4. Bake Until Rice is Tender
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the liquids and become tender.
5. Add Cheese and Finish Baking
Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole dinner recipe is heated through.
6. Rest and Serve
Let the chicken and broccoli rice bake rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set slightly, making it easier to portion out.
Variation Ideas
- Add a can of drained corn or peas for extra vegetables.
- Top with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
- Stir in a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor twist.
Storage Instructions
You can store leftover chicken and broccoli rice bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave or place the entire dish back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use uncooked chicken?
Yes, you can. Dice raw chicken breast into small pieces and add it directly to the mixture. It will cook thoroughly during the baking process.
Do I need to cook the rice beforehand?
No, this recipe uses uncooked white rice, which cooks right in the casserole with the other ingredients.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can. Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
What kind of cheese is best?
Cheddar cheese is a popular choice for its flavor and melt. You can also use a blend like Colby Jack or a sharp cheddar for more zing.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture before baking for a spicier kick.
Is this a good make-ahead meal?
Absolutely! This chicken and broccoli rice bake is perfect for meal prepping. You can assemble it the day before and bake it when you’re ready.