Name: Scrumptious Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Prep time: PT-480722H4M1S
Cook time: PT-480722H4M1S
Total time: PT-480722H4M1S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

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