Description
This comforting Weeknight Casserole features tender cubed chicken, fresh broccoli, and fluffy rice baked together in a creamy mixture of cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and chicken broth, topped with a golden, bubbly layer of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick and satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, cut into 1-inch pieces
Base and Dairy
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp melted butter
Grains and Liquids
- 1.5 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Seasonings
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole evenly.
- Prepare Sauce Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a creamy base for the casserole.
- Add Rice and Chicken: Stir in the uncooked long-grain white rice and the cubed chicken pieces, making sure every grain of rice is fully submerged in the liquid to ensure even cooking.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it out evenly to create a uniform casserole base.
- Add Broccoli: Gently fold the broccoli florets into the top layer without mixing them deeper into the rice and chicken to keep some texture variation.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to cook the chicken and rice through and soften the broccoli.
- Add Cheese Topping: Carefully remove the foil, then evenly sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole. Drizzle melted butter over the cheese to help it brown beautifully.
- Bake and Broil: Return the uncovered dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Then switch to the broiler setting and broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and has reached a rich mahogany color, signaling a perfect golden crust.
Notes
- To save time, you can use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken; just reduce initial baking time accordingly.
- Feel free to swap broccoli for other vegetables like cauliflower or mixed frozen vegetables.
- Ensure the rice is fully submerged in the liquid to prevent dryness or uneven cooking.
- If you prefer a lower-fat version, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt and use reduced-fat cheese.
- Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes after baking to allow it to set and cool slightly for easier serving.
