Description

A budget-friendly, family-approved casserole made with simple pantry staples like rice, chicken, broccoli, and cheese. It’s easy to make, kid-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups uncooked white rice (Jasmine or Basmati)
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
2 cups frozen broccoli florets
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup milk
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Cooking spray or butter for greasing dish
1 tbsp oil for cooking chicken

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook in a skillet with oil over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Rest for 5 minutes, then dice into bite-sized pieces.
In a pot, combine rice and 3 cups water (or broth). Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until tender. Fluff with a fork.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Add cooked rice, diced chicken, thawed and drained broccoli, and half of the shredded cheese to the sauce bowl. Stir to combine.
Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining cheese.
Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. If browning too fast, cover with foil for the last 10 minutes.
Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow sauce to thicken.

Notes

Ensure broccoli is well-drained to prevent a soupy casserole. Cook rice separately for best texture. Can be assembled ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Freezes well for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 3
Sodium: 600
Fat: 20
Saturated Fat: 10
Carbohydrates: 40
Fiber: 2
Protein: 25

Keywords: chicken casserole, broccoli rice, family dinner, budget meal, easy recipe, comfort food, weeknight dinner