One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

If you're looking for a delicious, easy-to-make meal that satisfies the entire family, this One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe is the perfect answer! With its rich combination of tender chicken, wholesome broccoli, creamy cheese, and flavorful rice, this casserole dish is a comforting and satisfying dinner that only requires one pot. That means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Keep reading to discover how you can whip up this simple, hearty dish, and wow your family tonight!

What Is One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a homestyle dish made with ingredients that complement each other perfectly: juicy chicken, fresh broccoli, and gooey, melted cheese all mixed with tender rice for a filling and balanced meal. The best part? It’s all cooked in a single pot, saving you from washing a mountain of dishes. This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or a lazy weekend dinner and is a great option for leftovers.

Ingredients List for One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
• 1 ½ cups white rice (uncooked, medium or long grain)
• 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped into small, bite-sized pieces
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter option)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or heavy cream)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added flavor)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or thyme (optional, for added flavor)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredient List for One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

You can find all these ingredients at your local grocery store, and most of them are likely to already be in your pantry. Here’s a quick summary for easy grocery shopping:

• Chicken breasts
• White rice
• Broccoli
• Onion
• Garlic
• Olive oil or butter
• Chicken broth
• Cheddar cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Milk
• Seasonings: salt, pepper, paprika, Italian seasoning, and parsley

Make sure to pick up fresh, high-quality ingredients to get the best results for this dish.

Substitutions and Variations

If you want to customize your One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole, there are plenty of options to switch things up while still achieving a delicious outcome:

• Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for a juicier, richer flavor.
• Brown rice or quinoa are healthier alternatives to white rice, but be mindful of the longer cooking times.
• Vegetarian option: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Different cheeses: While cheddar is the classic choice, you can mix it up with Monterey Jack, Gouda, or mozzarella for a unique flavor.
• Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like carrots, peas, or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
• Spices: Amp up the flavor by adding cumin, cayenne pepper, or smoked paprika for a bit of heat.
• Dairy-free: Substitute regular milk and cheese with plant-based versions like almond milk and vegan cheese to make this dish dairy-free.

These variations allow you to adjust the dish according to your dietary preferences or what you have on hand in your pantry.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making this dish is super simple, and the best part is it all happens in one pot! Here's how to create the perfect One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole:

How to Cook One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prep Your Ingredients: Start by dicing the chicken into bite-sized pieces, chopping the broccoli into small florets, and finely dicing the onion and garlic.
2. Sauté the Chicken: Heat the olive oil (or butter) in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once heated, add the diced chicken. Season it with salt and pepper, then cook for 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is no longer pink. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
3. Cook the Aromatics: In the same pot, add a bit more oil if necessary, then toss in the onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
4. Add the Rice: Pour the uncooked rice into the pot, stirring to coat it in the onion and garlic mixture. This step helps toast the rice slightly, which adds a subtle, nutty flavor.
5. Pour in the Broth: Slowly add the chicken broth to the pot, making sure to stir and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These add extra flavor to your casserole.
6. Simmer and Cook: Bring the broth to a boil, then lower the heat, cover the pot, and let the rice cook for about 12-15 minutes, or until it is just tender.
7. Add the Broccoli and Chicken: Once the rice is nearly cooked, stir in the broccoli and the cooked chicken. Cover the pot again and allow everything to cook for another 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
8. Stir in the Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and milk. Mix everything together until the cheese is fully melted and the dish is creamy.
9. Optional Topping: If you like your casserole with an extra cheesy crust, sprinkle some additional cheddar cheese on top and pop the pot under the broiler for a few minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
10. Garnish and Serve: Once the casserole is ready, garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately while it’s warm and gooey.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Rice: One common mistake is letting the rice cook too long. Keep an eye on it to prevent mushy rice.
• Skipping the Browning Step: Sautéing the chicken and toasting the rice adds crucial flavor, so don’t skip these steps.
• Using Too Much Broth: Stick to the recommended broth measurements; too much liquid can lead to a soupy consistency instead of a casserole.
• Not Adjusting for Rice Type: If using brown rice or quinoa, make sure to adjust cooking times and liquid amounts accordingly.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key when serving a warm, comforting dish like this casserole. A few thoughtful touches can take your dish from good to great.

How to Serve One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Serve hot: This casserole is best served straight from the pot while it’s still warm and the cheese is melty. If you’re preparing it in advance, you can reheat it gently in the oven.
• Portion with a large spoon: Because the dish is creamy and cheesy, it’s best to serve it with a large spoon or ladle to scoop out generous portions.

Presentation Ideas for One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives adds a touch of color and freshness.
• Serve in the pot: If you're cooking this dish in a beautiful Dutch oven or a large, rustic-looking pot, serve it right from there. It makes for a charming family-style presentation.
• Side dish: Pair the casserole with a simple green salad or crusty bread to round out the meal.

One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead: This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it’s warm throughout.
• Freeze it: This dish freezes beautifully! Freeze individual portions for quick, ready-made meals. Simply defrost and reheat in the oven or microwave.
• Add a crunch: For a bit of texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before broiling.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the casserole.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prep and assemble the casserole, refrigerate it, and bake it when you're ready. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Q: How can I store leftovers?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Swiss, or even a blend of several cheeses.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, just make sure to use a larger pot or split the recipe into two dishes for baking if your pot isn’t large enough.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe is a time-saving, flavor-packed meal perfect for busy families. It's comforting, nutritious, and infinitely customizable to suit your taste or dietary preferences. With just one pot, minimal prep, and easy cleanup, it’s a go-to recipe that will quickly become a household favorite. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try, and your family will thank you!

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