Print

Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe with Crispy Cheese Crust

creamy chicken broccoli rice casserole - featured image
Print Recipe

A warm, comforting casserole featuring tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and fluffy rice in a creamy sauce topped with a crispy cheese crust. Perfect for cozy weeknights and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen if pressed for time)
  • 1 ½ cups cooked white rice (leftover or freshly cooked)
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 ½ cups whole milk or 2% milk (or unsweetened almond milk for dairy-free)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup finely chopped yellow onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
  • ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon dried thyme or smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
  2. Steam the fresh broccoli florets for about 4-5 minutes until just tender but still bright green. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  3. In a medium skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flavor.
  5. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, stirring until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until thickened, about 4-5 minutes, until it coats the back of a spoon.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in the sour cream, remaining 2 tablespoons butter, salt, pepper, and optional spices like thyme or smoked paprika. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  7. In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, and creamy sauce until evenly coated.
  8. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Parmesan evenly over the top to form the crispy cheese crust.
  9. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly. For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
  10. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and the casserole to set.

Notes

Do not overcook broccoli to avoid mushiness. Use freshly shredded cheese for best crust. Adjust sauce thickness by adding milk or flour as needed. Let casserole rest after baking for better texture. Can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking. Broil last few minutes for extra crispy cheese crust.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken casserole, broccoli casserole, creamy casserole, cheesy crust, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal

Find it online: https://emmayum.com/creamy-chicken-broccoli-rice-casserole-recipe-with-crispy-cheese-crust-easy-and-perfect/