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Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole Recipe

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4.3 from 70 reviews

A comforting and cheesy chicken broccoli and rice casserole combining tender chicken breasts, fresh broccoli, and creamy rice, all topped with melted sharp cheddar cheese. This one-pan meal is easy to prepare and perfect for a wholesome family dinner.

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3/4 cup long grain rice
  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup
  • 3 tbsps minced garlic
  • 2.5 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 Roma tomato, diced
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup sharp shredded cheddar cheese (grated for extra meltiness)
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
  • 2 tbsps fresh parsley, chopped (highly recommended)

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Sauté Chicken and Onions: Season the cubed chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large non-stick, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and diced onion. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the chicken starts to brown and onions soften. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  2. Cook Rice Mixture: Pour in the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and rice. Stir to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the rice is fully cooked. Add more chicken broth if the mixture becomes too dry during cooking.
  3. Add Vegetables and Cheese: Once the rice is cooked, stir in the broccoli florets, diced tomato, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Cook this mixture for 2 minutes allowing the cheese to melt and the broccoli to soften slightly.
  4. Broil to Finish: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole without stirring. Place the skillet under a preheated broiler for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from broiler, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and fresh flavor, then serve warm and enjoy your cheesy chicken broccoli and rice casserole.

Notes

  • Grating the cheese before adding ensures a better melt and creamier texture.
  • If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the mixture to a baking dish before broiling.
  • Make sure to stir a few times during rice cooking to prevent sticking and uneven cooking.
  • Add more chicken broth if the rice mixture dries out before rice is fully cooked.
  • Broil cheese topping carefully as it can burn quickly—stay attentive during this step.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American