The Pioneer Woman Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy cheese. It’s the perfect meal for busy days or family gatherings. This casserole is warm, filling, and packed with flavor. The creamy sauce coats every ingredient, making each bite delicious. Plus, it’s easy to make and uses simple ingredients you can find in any grocery store. Whether you are a cooking novice or an experienced chef, you can whip this up in no time. Gather your ingredients, and let’s get to making this amazing casserole!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

You will love this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole for its rich flavors and comfort. The blend of cheeses creates a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and crispy broccoli. It’s a one-dish meal, making cleanup easy after dinner. This casserole is also versatile; you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. It’s a great way to sneak in some greens for the kids. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day!

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 6 Tbsp salted butter (divided)
• 8 cups broccoli florets
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 4 (6 oz) chicken breasts
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 garlic clove, grated
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp dry mustard
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 4 cups whole milk
• 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 8 oz Velveeta or processed cheese
• 8 oz sharp cheddar, grated (divided)
• 3 cups cooked long-grain rice
• 1 cup crushed butter crackers

Step-by-Step Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish. Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 2 minutes, then rinse it under cold water. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and the olive oil over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts until golden and cooked through, then shred the chicken.

Next, add the remaining butter to the skillet. Sauté the diced onion and grated garlic until soft. Then stir in the flour, dry mustard, and cayenne pepper. Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until the sauce thickens. Stir in the cream cheese, parmesan cheese, and Velveeta until melted completely. Add the shredded chicken and broccoli to the sauce and mix well.

In the greased baking dish, layer the rice, followed by the chicken and broccoli sauce. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining cheddar cheese and crushed butter crackers on top. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden and bubbly. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Serve this casserole warm. It pairs well with a simple green salad for a complete meal. You can also add some fresh bread on the side for extra comfort.

How to Store Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely. Cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and place it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Tips for the Best Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

For the best results, avoid overcooking the broccoli during blanching; it should still be bright green and slightly crisp. You can use leftover cooked chicken for a quicker prep time. Don’t skimp on the cheese; it’s what makes this dish creamy and delicious!

Recipe Variations

Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition. You can also use a mix of cheeses based on your preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it beforehand.

Is there a gluten-free option for this casserole?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free crackers.

How long does it take to cook the chicken?

It usually takes about 6–8 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

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