Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

If you crave the kind of comfort that only comes from digging into a creamy, cheesy family favorite, this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is destined to steal your heart. Every bite delivers tender shreds of chicken, vibrant green broccoli, fluffy rice, and a luxuriously creamy sauce with irresistible cheesy pulls. Whether you need an easy weeknight dinner, a dish to take to a potluck, or just something cozy for a Sunday, this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole guarantees smiles around the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is how each simple ingredient punches above its weight, adding unique flavor and texture. Every component has a purpose, working together to build that signature creamy, savory, and irresistibly cheesy profile.

• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create the perfect base for sauteing chicken and garlic.
• Chicken thighs: Super juicy and flavorful, making the casserole satisfying and hearty.
• Olive oil: Ensures the chicken browns nicely and stays moist.
• Garlic (minced): Gives an aromatic punch and depth of flavor right from the start.
• Chicken stock: Deglazes the skillet and adds savory undertones to the creamy sauce.
• Cream of chicken with herbs (canned): Delivers creaminess and a subtle herbal note to the sauce.
• Heavy cream: Poured right into the soup can, this takes the sauce to the next level of lusciousness.
• Cheddar cheese (mild or medium): Melts perfectly for gooey goodness and robust flavor.
• Sour cream: Rounds out the sauce with a tangy creaminess.
• Boursin cheese: Adds magic—a creamy, herby, garlicky flavor boost that makes this casserole special.
• Bayou City all purpose seasoning (divided): Layers in big, bold, balanced flavors.
• Bayou City garlic pepper: Elevates with a zesty, peppery warmth.
• Onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and aromatic depth.
• Cayenne: Just the right amount of heat to keep each bite exciting.
• Broccoli florets (cooked): Bring color, nutrition, and a satisfying crunch.
• White rice (cooked): Acts as the perfect filler and soaks up all those glorious flavors.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential to perfect the final seasoning.

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 375 F (190 C) to get things ready. This preheating step is crucial for achieving that bubbling, golden top we all love in a casserole.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with olive oil and 2 tablespoons of your Bayou City all purpose seasoning, then cook them for 6 to 7 minutes per side until they’re cooked through and beautifully browned. This creates the savory, juicy base of your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole.

Step 3: Shred or Chop Chicken

Once your chicken is done, transfer it to a cutting board to cool slightly. Then shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces—this makes them perfect for melding into the casserole later.

Step 4: Sauté Garlic and Deglaze the Pan

Don’t clean that skillet! Drop in the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, around two minutes. Adding the chicken stock comes next—pour it in, stirring well to deglaze all those delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom. Let it simmer for about four minutes; flavor city!

Step 5: Craft the Creamy Sauce

Add the cream of chicken with herbs to the skillet. Fill that empty can with heavy cream and pour it into the pan too. Stir to combine, then add the Boursin and about half a cup of shredded cheddar, mixing until the cheeses melt into a smooth, velvety sauce. The Boursin truly transforms the sauce here, but if you love more cheese, don’t be shy to sneak some extra in. Just save plenty to sprinkle on top later!

Step 6: Add Sour Cream for Tangy Creaminess

Into your luscious sauce, stir in the sour cream until it’s fully combined. This adds just the right note of tang that keeps the richness in check, guaranteeing your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole isn’t just creamy, but flavor-forward too.

Step 7: Bring It All Together

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine your cooked rice, bright green broccoli florets, and shredded chicken. Pour over your dreamy cheese sauce and stir gently to ensure every grain of rice, every piece of broccoli, and every morsel of chicken is coated in flavor. Season with the remaining Bayou City spices, onion powder, and cayenne. Taste, then adjust with a little salt and pepper if you like.

Step 8: Casserole Assembly and Baking

Scoop the mixture into a large casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese all over the top. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden with toasty edges.

Step 9: Let Cool and Serve

Remove your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes to set. This wait is tough, but it ensures delightfully creamy slices when serving. Enjoy it piping hot and savor every cozy bite!

How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Garnishes

Sprinkle a little chopped fresh parsley and a dusting of paprika over the top just before serving. The green pops against the cheesy crust, and the paprika adds a hint of smokiness and a classic casserole look.

Side Dishes

This casserole is hearty all on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some warm, crusty bread for sopping up every bit of creamy sauce. If you want something light, try some simply dressed sliced tomatoes or a tangy coleslaw.

Creative Ways to Present

For family style, serve directly from the baking dish. To elevate the presentation, portion the Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole into individual ramekins for dinner parties—everyone gets their own cheesy, bubbling serving! Top with microgreens or scatter a few extra broccoli florets on top for a festive touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole stores perfectly! Let the casserole cool completely, then cover tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors just keep getting better by the next day.

Freezing

This casserole is freezer-friendly. Simply assemble and cool it, then wrap tightly in foil and freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as usual until heated through and bubbly.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the leftovers with foil and warm in a 350 F oven until heated through (usually about 20-25 minutes). For single servings, a microwave works great—just add a splash of chicken stock or milk to keep the casserole creamy and prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts if you prefer—they work well and result in a leaner texture, though thighs provide a bit more flavor and juiciness in the casserole.

What kind of rice is best for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

Long-grain white rice is classic because it holds its structure nicely, but brown rice or even wild rice can add a nutty depth and extra fiber if you want to mix things up.

How do I keep the casserole from getting soggy?

Make sure your rice and broccoli are cooked but not overdone and avoid excess liquid in your sauce. Baking uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes also helps the casserole develop a satisfying, slightly crisp top.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Peas, diced bell pepper, or sautéed mushrooms go wonderfully in Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole. Just make sure to cook them before adding to avoid excess moisture.

What can I use instead of Boursin cheese?

If you can’t find Boursin, a mix of cream cheese with garlic and herbs stirred in makes a great homemade substitute. It provides that creamy, flavorful punch that sets this casserole apart.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is pure coziness in a dish—creamy, savory, and always satisfying. Give it a try for your next family meal or gathering; it’s sure to become a treasured favorite in your recipe rotation!

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