Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, wholesome, and utterly delicious meal, this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is exactly what you need. Imagine tender chicken thighs enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce, perfectly mingling with fluffy rice and vibrant broccoli. Every bite bursts with warmth, flavor, and that home-cooked hug we all crave. Whether you’re feeding the family or prepping for a cozy night in, this recipe brings together simple ingredients in the most delightful way, making the Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole a go-to favorite you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its straightforward and complementary ingredients, each playing a vital role in delivering the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. From the richness of cheeses to the freshness of broccoli, every component is essential and thoughtfully chosen.

• Unsalted butter (2 tbsp): Adds a luscious base for cooking and a subtle creaminess to the sauce.
• Chicken thighs (5-6): Juicy and flavorful, these provide hearty protein and soak up all the seasonings beautifully.
• Olive oil (1 tbsp): Perfect for seasoning the chicken and enhancing its golden brown sear.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Infuses a wonderful aromatic punch that elevates the entire dish.
• Chicken stock (1/4 cup): Deglazes the pan and builds depth in the sauce.
• Cream of chicken with herbs (10.5 oz can): Creates a velvety, herb-kissed base for the creamy sauce.
• Heavy cream (10.5 oz): Mixed with the cream soup to add richness and a silky mouthfeel.
• Cheddar cheese (1 1/2 cups, shredded): Mild or medium cheddar brings a melty, savory charm to the casserole.
• Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds a slight tanginess and extra creaminess that brightens the sauce.
• Boursin cheese (1/3 cup): Offers a hint of herbaceous flavor and a delightful creamy texture.
• Bayou city all purpose seasoning (3 tbsp, divided): A Cajun-inspired mix that season the dish with bold, balanced spice.
• Bayou city garlic pepper (1 tbsp): For that perfect garlicky kick with a peppery finish.
• Onion powder (1 tsp): Subtly sweet and savory, it deepens the flavor profile.
• Cayenne (1/2 tsp): Adds a gentle heat that wakes up the palate without overpowering.
• Broccoli florets (4 cups, cooked): Bright and nutritious, providing vibrant color and tender crunch.
• White rice (4 cups, cooked): The comforting, fluffy base that carries all those rich flavors perfectly.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): Simple seasonings to finish and balance the flavors just right.

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). This will ensure it’s ready to crisp and meld all your ingredients into one harmonious casserole. Meanwhile, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat for a perfectly luscious cooking surface. Season your chicken thighs with olive oil and two tablespoons of the all-purpose seasoning to infuse flavor right into the meat.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Thighs

Place the chicken thighs in the hot skillet and cook them for about six to seven minutes on each side until they’re cooked through and beautifully browned. This searing locks in juices and builds a wonderful crust. Once done, remove the chicken and let it cool slightly before shredding or chopping into bite-sized pieces — this will make every forkful a dream to eat.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce

Using the same skillet (we love to layer flavors), add the minced garlic, cooking until fragrant — about two minutes will do. Pour in the chicken stock to deglaze the pan. This step helps lift all those tasty browned bits left behind and makes your sauce incredibly flavorful. Allow the stock to reduce for around four minutes so the flavors concentrate.

Step 4: Combine Cream and Cheese

Next, stir in the cream of chicken soup along with heavy cream measured from the same can for convenience. Add the Boursin cheese and half a cup of shredded cheddar, stirring until the mixture is luxuriously smooth. If you want an extra thick sauce, feel free to add more cheddar now, but save some cheese for topping the casserole later. Incorporate the sour cream last for a gentle tanginess and creaminess that rounds out the sauce beautifully.

Step 5: Mix Rice, Broccoli, and Chicken

In a large bowl, combine your cooked rice, broccoli florets, and shredded chicken. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over everything and stir until it’s evenly coated. Add the remaining bayou city all-purpose seasoning, garlic pepper, onion powder, and cayenne. Give it a taste test and adjust salt and pepper as needed — seasoning is key to making this casserole sing.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the mixture to a spacious casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top for that irresistible golden crust. Cover the dish with aluminum foil, then bake for 20 minutes to let all the flavors meld. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese bubbles and turns a gorgeous golden brown. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow everything to set.

How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Garnishes

To add a final pop of color and a touch of freshness, garnish your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of paprika. These simple touches brighten the presentation and add subtle layers of flavor that make the dish feel even more special.

Side Dishes

This casserole is a hearty meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp side salads, roasted vegetables, or even some warm, crusty bread to scoop up the cheesy sauce. A light vinaigrette can help balance the richness, making the whole meal feel perfectly rounded and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests or turn leftovers into a new meal, consider serving the casserole in individual ramekins for a charming personal touch. You can also top each serving with a fried egg or add a drizzle of hot sauce for a fun twist. The Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is versatile and lends itself well to creativity!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover chicken broccoli rice casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to four days and tastes just as comforting on day two or three when flavors have further melded.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or wrap the whole dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to three months, making it a perfect ready-to-go meal for busy days.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then bake uncovered at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through and bubbly again. Microwaving works for smaller portions but be sure to cover loosely and stir halfway through heating to maintain creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used if you prefer white meat, but keep an eye on cooking times since breasts can dry out faster. Consider marinating or cooking gently to maintain moisture.

Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup or make your own sauce from scratch. Also, double-check your seasonings to ensure they do not contain gluten-containing additives.

Can I substitute the broccoli with another vegetable?

Definitely! Cauliflower, green beans, or even a mix of colorful bell peppers would work well. Just make sure to cook them beforehand so they are tender and blend nicely into the casserole.

What kind of rice works best in this casserole?

Plain white rice is ideal because it absorbs the creamy sauce wonderfully without overpowering the flavors. You can use brown rice, but keep in mind it has a firmer texture and nuttier taste, which changes the dish’s profile slightly.

How spicy is this casserole with the bayou city seasoning?

The seasoning adds a gentle, balanced heat that enhances the dish without overwhelming. If you prefer less spice, start with half the amount and adjust to your liking. The cayenne is mild enough to add warmth but not bite.

Final Thoughts

Making and sharing this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is like inviting comfort and deliciousness to your table. With its creamy texture, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli, it’s a meal that satisfies every craving and warms the soul. Give this recipe a try — I promise it will become one of your cherished kitchen favorites.

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