Description
Savory one pot cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole delivers comfort food magic from kitchen to table. Quick weeknight meal satisfies hunger while creating memorable family moments you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 2 chicken breasts
Vegetables:
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 onion
- 2 cloves garlic
Grains, Dairy, and Seasonings:
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat, gently sautéing diced onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant.
- Add cubed chicken pieces, seasoning thoroughly with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and no longer pink in the center.
- Pour in uncooked rice and chicken broth, stirring to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Layer chopped broccoli florets on top of the rice mixture, cover the skillet, and reduce heat to low, allowing everything to cook for approximately 15-18 minutes until rice becomes tender and absorbs the liquid.
- Remove lid and sprinkle shredded cheese and milk over the casserole, stirring gently to create a creamy, cohesive texture as the cheese melts completely.
- Let the casserole rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld and sauce to thicken slightly.
- Garnish with additional cheese if desired and serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
- Check broccoli tenderness to prevent overcooking, which can make it mushy and lose nutritional value.
- Swap white rice with brown rice or quinoa for a more nutritious and fiber-rich alternative that adds nutty flavor.
- Use rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken to save time and add extra flavor complexity to the dish.
- Consider lactose-free cheese and milk options for a dairy-sensitive diet, ensuring everyone can enjoy this comforting meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg