Delicious Chicken Broccoli Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic

Chicken Broccoli Casserole is one of those comforting dishes that never seems to go out of style. Combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners or a cozy meal on a chilly evening. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of making this classic dish, from preparation to baking, and provide valuable tips and tricks to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Rice Mixture:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1.5 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 4 cups broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried marjoram
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• 1 ¼ cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

For the Topping:

• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed (32 crackers)
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Rice

1. Melt Butter and Cook Onions: Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the chopped onion and cook for about 2 minutes until it becomes translucent. Push the onions to one side of the skillet.
2. Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook until the chicken is browned, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning. If needed, work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate, leaving the onions in the skillet. Stir the onions occasionally.
3. Add Garlic: Once all the chicken is cooked and plated, add the minced garlic to the skillet with the onions. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning. Plate the garlic and onions with the chicken.
4. Cook the Rice: While cooking the chicken, bring 2 cups of water, 1 tablespoon of butter, and ½ teaspoon of salt to a boil in a separate saucepan. Add 1 cup of uncooked long-grain white rice. Cover and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Set aside.
5. Steam the Broccoli: Steam 4 cups of broccoli florets until tender. You can do this on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. Prepare the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Once melted, sprinkle in 4 tablespoons of flour. Whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes to form a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
2. Add Seasonings: Add ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of dried marjoram, and ½ teaspoon of dried thyme leaves to the roux. Stir to combine.
3. Incorporate Liquids: Gradually whisk in 1 ¼ cups of low-sodium chicken broth and 2 cups of milk, alternating between the two to prevent lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
4. Add Cheese: Lower the heat and whisk in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken, rice, and broccoli to the cheese sauce. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 9×13 inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
3. Layer the Casserole: Spoon half of the chicken mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Top with ½ cup of cheddar cheese. Add the remaining chicken mixture on top and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
4. Add Topping: In a small bowl, combine 1 sleeve of crushed Ritz crackers with 4 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.
5. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is browned and the cheese is melted.

Notes and Tips

• Chicken Preparation: Cut the chicken into thin, bite-sized pieces to ensure it cooks evenly and quickly.
• Onions and Chicken: For efficiency, you can cook the onions and chicken simultaneously by pushing the onions off to one side of the pan. If the chicken starts sticking, add a little more butter or olive oil.
• Rice Substitution: Feel free to use brown rice instead of white rice for a healthier option.
• Steaming Broccoli: To streamline your cooking process, steam the broccoli in a steamer basket over the pot of rice. This method saves time and ensures both are cooked simultaneously.
• Cheese Quality: Using high-quality cheddar cheese and grating it fresh will enhance the flavor of your casserole.
• Additional Vegetables: Consider adding mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Alternative Toppings: If you prefer, you can substitute the Ritz crackers with cornflakes, panko bread crumbs, or Italian breadcrumbs.
• Low-Carb Option: For a keto-friendly version, omit the rice and make it a simple chicken and broccoli casserole.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the casserole in a heavy-duty container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat leftovers in the microwave at a reduced power level to avoid overcooking.

Nutrition Information

Per serving:

• Calories: 687 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 41g
• Fat: 40g
• Saturated Fat: 23g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 175mg
• Sodium: 711mg
• Potassium: 883mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 6g
• Vitamin A: 1584 IU
• Vitamin C: 56mg
• Calcium: 429mg
• Iron: 2mg

FAQ

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the casserole.

2. How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this casserole gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour and check that your Ritz crackers are gluten-free or use a gluten-free cracker alternative.

3. Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble it, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed.

4. How can I reheat leftovers?

Reheat leftovers in the microwave at a reduced power level to ensure even heating. Alternatively, you can reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.

5. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

6. What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?

If you prefer a different cheese, you can use Monterey Jack, Gouda, or a blend of your favorites. Just be sure to choose a cheese that melts well.

This Chicken Broccoli Casserole is sure to become a family favorite with its creamy texture, flavorful ingredients, and satisfying taste. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Scrumptious Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

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• Author: recipevalue.com
• Total Time: 55-60 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

A comforting and hearty casserole featuring tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy cheddar cheese sauce, topped with a crunchy Ritz cracker topping. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 4 cups broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried marjoram
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• 1 ¼ cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed (32 crackers)
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted

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Instructions

• Cook Chicken and Onions: Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a skillet. Sauté onions for 2 minutes, then push to one side. Add chicken, cook until browned, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Remove chicken, onions, and garlic.
• Cook Rice: Boil water, 1 tablespoon butter, and salt. Add rice, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes.
• Steam Broccoli: Steam broccoli until tender.
• Make Cheese Sauce: Melt 4 tablespoons butter, add flour, and whisk for 2-3 minutes. Add seasonings, then gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk until smooth. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
• Combine and Bake: Mix chicken, rice, and broccoli with cheese sauce. Layer in a casserole dish, top with cheese and Ritz cracker mixture. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.

Notes

• Chicken: Cut into thin pieces for even cooking.
• Rice: Can substitute brown rice.
• Cheese: Use high-quality cheddar for better flavor.
• Additional Veggies: Add mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini if desired.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

• Prep Time: 35-40 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American