One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole

This One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, creamy rice, and nutritious broccoli, all in one pot! Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or any time you crave a hearty, cheesy meal. The best part? It’s simple to make and doesn’t require any complicated steps or dishes to wash afterward.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is a crowd-pleaser thanks to its comforting and cheesy flavor profile. The combination of juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and perfectly cooked rice makes it a well-rounded meal. Everything is cooked in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze, and the addition of cheddar cheese takes the dish to the next level of creamy goodness. Plus, it’s a quick, weeknight-friendly recipe that’s both satisfying and nutritious, making it a go-to for busy nights.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion (chopped)

• 2 chicken breasts (cut into small cubes)

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 4 cloves garlic (minced)

• 3/4 cup rice (uncooked)

• 10 ounces cream of chicken soup (1 can)

• 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium)

• 2 cups broccoli florets

• 1 cup cheddar cheese

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the onion and chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cubed chicken. Cook for about 5 minutes until the chicken begins to brown and is no longer pink. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until the garlic becomes aromatic.

2. Add the rice and liquids: Stir in the rice, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Start with 2 cups of chicken broth, and if more liquid is needed, you can add more as the rice cooks.

3. Cook the rice: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and cook over medium heat for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked, stirring occasionally. Taste for seasoning and adjust if necessary.

4. Finish with broccoli and cheese: Add the broccoli florets and half of the cheddar cheese. Continue cooking for 2 more minutes until the broccoli softens slightly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and place the skillet under the broiler for a few more minutes, just until the cheese melts and begins to brown.

5. Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Different veggies: Feel free to swap the broccoli for other vegetables such as mushrooms, peppers, or cauliflower.

• Brown rice: You can substitute brown rice for white rice, but keep in mind it will require more time to cook and additional liquid.

• Creamier option: For an extra creamy dish, stir in some sour cream or heavy cream along with the cream of chicken soup.

• Protein swap: If you prefer, you can replace the chicken with turkey or even use a meat alternative for a vegetarian option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit more chicken broth to keep the rice moist. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other types of rice, but long grain rice like Basmati is recommended for this recipe. If you use brown rice, it will take longer to cook and may need more liquid.

2. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just be sure to thaw and pat it dry before adding it to the casserole.

3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the dish up to step 2 the night before, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to cook, follow the rest of the instructions.

4. How do I make this dish spicier?

If you like spice, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a chopped jalapeño, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the casserole for an extra kick.

5. Can I freeze the leftovers?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

6. What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

If you want a healthier or vegetarian alternative, you can use cream of mushroom soup or make your own homemade cream soup using milk, butter, and flour.

7. Can I add other cheeses to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use mozzarella, Parmesan, or even pepper jack cheese to mix things up.

8. How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and check the broth for gluten content.

9. What can I serve this casserole with?

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you could pair it with a simple side salad or crusty bread for extra servings.

10. Can I use a non-stick skillet for this recipe?

Yes, a non-stick skillet works well for this recipe, but be sure to choose an oven-proof one if you plan to broil the cheese.

Conclusion

This One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole is the perfect solution for a quick, comforting, and delicious meal. With minimal ingredients, one pot, and just 30 minutes of your time, you can enjoy a satisfying dish that’s full of flavor. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or preparing a meal ahead of time, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!