The Ultimate One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

Crafting a delightful one pot cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole might sound complicated, but trust me, it’s surprisingly simple.

Comfort food doesn’t get more satisfying than this creamy combination.

Hearty ingredients blend together in a single pan, creating magic with minimal cleanup.

Weeknight dinners demand easy solutions that pack maximum flavor.

Busy people deserve meals that feel like a warm hug without complicated techniques.

Cheese lovers and chicken enthusiasts will absolutely adore this streamlined recipe that brings everything together in one spectacular dish.

You’ll be amazed how quickly this meal comes together with just a few straightforward steps.

One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Guide

• Craft a Complete Meal: This one-pot wonder delivers protein, veggies, and grains in a single comforting dish, making dinner planning a breeze.
• Simplify Cooking Process: Minimal dishes and straightforward steps mean you can prepare a delicious meal without complicated techniques or multiple cookware.
• Family-Friendly Flavor Fusion: Creamy cheese, tender chicken, and nutritious broccoli create a crowd-pleasing combination that kids and adults will love equally.
• Adaptable Weeknight Solution: Perfect for busy families seeking a quick, satisfying meal that doesn't compromise on taste or nutrition, ready in less than an hour.

Ingredients in Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Chicken: A lean protein that adds heartiness and flavor to the casserole.

• Butter: Provides richness and helps sauté the aromatics.
• Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a sharp, creamy taste to the dish.
• Milk: Creates a smooth and creamy texture in the casserole.

• Rice: A filling base that absorbs the flavors and creates a comforting texture.
• Broccoli Florets: Adds nutrition, color, and a fresh vegetable element to the casserole.

• Onion, Garlic: Provide a foundational flavor and aromatic base for the dish.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the casserole.

• Chicken Broth: Adds depth of flavor and helps cook the rice to perfection.

Directions for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Step 1: Sizzle Aromatic Base

Heat a large skillet and melt butter. Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic, stirring until they become translucent and release their delightful fragrance.

The kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma that signals something delicious is about to happen.

Step 2: Transform Chicken

Introduce cubed chicken pieces to the skillet.

Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until each piece develops a golden-brown exterior. This browning process locks in flavor and creates a beautiful color.

Step 3: Build Liquid Foundation

Add uncooked rice, chicken broth, and milk to the skillet. Gently stir to combine all ingredients.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the rice to start absorbing the flavorful liquid.

Step 4: Incorporate Green Goodness

Fold in fresh broccoli florets.

Season the entire mixture with salt and pepper to enhance the overall taste profile. The green broccoli will add a vibrant pop of color and nutritional boost.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the skillet and let everything cook together. The rice will become tender and absorb all the delicious liquid.

This process typically takes about 15-20 minutes, during which the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 6: Finish with Cheesy Flourish

Remove from heat and stir in sharp cheddar cheese.

Watch as the cheese melts and creates a creamy, luxurious coating over the chicken, rice, and broccoli. The result is a comforting, one-pot meal that’s sure to satisfy.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Scoop the casserole into warm bowls. The dish is best enjoyed immediately while the cheese is still gooey and the ingredients are piping hot.

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Swap regular milk with non-dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk for a lactose-free version.
• Dice chicken into smaller pieces for faster and more even cooking throughout the dish.
• Add extra vegetables like carrots or peas for increased nutrition and colorful presentation.
• Use brown rice instead of white rice for a higher fiber and nutrient-dense meal option.
• Sprinkle additional cheese on top before serving for an extra gooey and indulgent finish.

Flavor Twists on Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Vegetarian Rice Bake: Replace chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use cauliflower rice as a base, swap regular rice for quinoa, ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice, use heavy cream instead of milk, add extra cheese for richness.
• Mediterranean-Style Casserole: Add sun-dried tomatoes, swap cheddar for feta cheese, include oregano and spinach for a different flavor profile.

Serving Ideas for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Cozy Family Comfort Plate: Serve this hearty casserole directly from the pot for a rustic, homestyle dinner that brings everyone together around the table.
• Meal Prep Champion: Portion the casserole into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches during busy workweeks, keeping meals nutritious and delicious.
• Potluck Party Star: Transfer the casserole to a beautiful serving dish and bring it to gatherings, where its cheesy goodness will surely impress friends and family.
• Garnish Upgrade: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or green onions on top for a pop of color and extra layer of fresh flavor that elevates the entire dish.

How to Store Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Let the casserole cool completely before transferring to the container to prevent moisture buildup.
• Separate portions into individual containers for easier reheating and storage.
• Avoid freezing as the rice and dairy can separate and become grainy when thawed.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just thaw and drain it before adding to the casserole to prevent excess moisture.

• Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute chicken with plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

• What type of rice works best for this recipe?

Long-grain white rice is ideal, but you can also use brown rice. Just adjust cooking time and liquid amount accordingly.

• Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Partially prepare the dish by cooking the rice and chicken, then refrigerate. Add cheese and finish cooking when ready to serve.

Delicious One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

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4.7 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 28 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty one pot cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole brings comfort and flavor to dinner tables across America. Creamy textures and savory ingredients combine for a satisfying meal you will enjoy with family and friends.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1 pound (454 grams) chicken breast, cubed
• 2 cups (473 ml) chicken broth

Vegetables and Grains:

• 2 cups (340 grams) broccoli florets
• 1 cup (180 grams) uncooked rice
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy and Seasonings:

• 2 cups (226 grams) cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) milk or cream
• 2 tablespoons (28 grams) butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. Sauté diced onions and minced garlic in melted butter over medium heat until translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes.
2. Add chicken cubes to the skillet, cooking and stirring until exterior turns golden brown and meat is nearly cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Pour uncooked rice into the skillet, then add chicken broth and milk, stirring to combine and ensure even distribution of ingredients.
4. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, reducing heat to low and allowing liquid to partially absorb into rice.
5. Scatter fresh broccoli florets across the surface, sprinkle with salt and black pepper, then cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid.
6. Maintain low heat and cook for 15-18 minutes, or until rice becomes tender and most liquid has been absorbed.
7. Remove lid and fold in shredded cheddar cheese, stirring gently to create a creamy, melted texture throughout the casserole.
8. Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes to allow cheese to fully melt and flavors to meld together before serving hot directly from the skillet.

Notes

• Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the leanest option, or use thighs for more flavor and moisture.
• Dice chicken into uniform, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
• Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels, allowing you to season the dish precisely to your taste.
• Swap white rice with brown rice for added fiber and nutrients, though cooking time may need slight adjustment.
• For a gluten-free version, confirm all ingredients are certified gluten-free and check broth labels carefully.
• Add extra vegetables like diced carrots or peas for increased nutrition and color variation.
• Customize the cheese by mixing different varieties like sharp cheddar, monterey jack, or gruyere for deeper flavor complexity.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 450 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 35 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg