Why Make This Recipe

Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace on a plate. This dish brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and fluffy rice, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, as it’s easy to prepare, satisfying, and serves a crowd. Plus, it utilizes ingredients that are often staples in many kitchens, making it both convenient and budget-friendly.

How to Make Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole

Making this delightful casserole is simple and requires minimal preparation. The steps are straightforward, allowing even novice cooks to whip up this comforting dish with ease. Follow these directions to create a satisfying meal your entire family will love.

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons butter
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts or 2 cups rotisserie chicken
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt & pepper to taste
2½ cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1¼ cups white long grain rice
2–3 cups broccoli florets
10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
½ cup milk
½ cup sour cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
½ tsp dried thyme (optional)
½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed
2 tablespoons melted butter

Directions:

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and brown the chicken until fully cooked. Set aside.
In the same skillet, add chicken broth, olive oil, and rice. Bring to a simmer and cook for approximately 6 minutes.
After 6 minutes, add the broccoli florets and continue to simmer for another 9 minutes.
Remove the skillet from heat and let the rice mixture sit covered for 10 minutes to fully absorb the liquid.
Once the rice is ready, stir in the cooked chicken (shredded if using breasts), cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top it with the remaining cheese.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.
After 15 minutes, uncover the dish, sprinkle the crushed Ritz crackers evenly on top, and drizzle with melted butter. Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole

This casserole is a complete meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some garlic bread for added variety. Serve it warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Your family and friends will appreciate the warmth and flavor of this dish, making it a staple for any gathering.

How to Store Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole

To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, ensuring no air pockets are left to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Tips to Make Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole

Rotisserie chicken: Using rotisserie chicken can save time and enhance the flavor of your casserole.
Add more veggies: You can add other vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots for additional nutrition and color.
Extra cheesy: For cheese lovers, mix in some mozzarella or sprinkle more cheese on the top for an even cheesier crust.

Variation

This casserole is versatile! You can swap the chicken for shredded turkey or omit the meat entirely for a vegetarian option. Additionally, using quinoa in place of rice can introduce a healthier grain alternative. For added flavor, consider using a different cream soup (like cream of mushroom) or experimenting with various cheese blends.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead, cover it and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, just add a bit more baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A: Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust your cooking times and broth accordingly.

Q: Is there a gluten-free option for the cracker topping?
A: Absolutely! You can use gluten-free crackers or even crushed cornflakes as a topping alternative. Just ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

This Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole brings together practical cooking methods with cherished flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser every time. Enjoy the heartwarming comforts of this dish!

Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole

A comforting casserole featuring tender chicken, broccoli, and rice in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 35

Total Time 55

Serving Size servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts or 2 cups rotisserie chicken Rotisserie chicken can save time.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
to taste Salt & pepper
2.5 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1.25 cups white long grain rice
2-3 cups broccoli florets
10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
0.5 cup milk
0.5 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Divided in use.
0.5 teaspoon dried thyme Optional.
0.5 teaspoon garlic powder Optional.
1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed
2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

Preparation

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and brown the chicken until fully cooked. Set aside.
In the same skillet, add chicken broth, olive oil, and rice. Bring to a simmer and cook for approximately 6 minutes.
After 6 minutes, add the broccoli florets and continue to simmer for another 9 minutes.
Remove the skillet from heat and let the rice mixture sit covered for 10 minutes to fully absorb the liquid.
Once the rice is ready, stir in the cooked chicken (shredded if using breasts), cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.

Baking

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top it with the remaining cheese.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.
After 15 minutes, uncover the dish, sprinkle the crushed Ritz crackers evenly on top, and drizzle with melted butter. Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

This casserole pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread. It can be made ahead and refrigerated. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.