There’s something truly special about digging into a steaming bowl of Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole. This dish is a warm embrace on a plate—imagine tender pieces of chicken nestled in a creamy, cheesy mixture, surrounded by vibrant green broccoli and fluffy rice. The golden, crispy topping adds the perfect crunch, making each bite a delightful contrast of textures. I whip this up when I want to savor a comforting meal that feels like a hug from the inside. It’s a reminder that simple ingredients can create something wonderfully indulgent.
Honestly, this casserole comes together surprisingly fast, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you want to serve something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Not to mention, it’s versatile enough for potlucks, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a little extra love at the table. And the best part? Leftovers taste just as good (if not better!) the next day.
Why I Love Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole
This Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole hits that sweet spot between ease and flavor. It’s incredibly easy and undeniably delicious, making it a true winner at my table—my family always devours it! The combination of creamy chicken and tender broccoli is a classic that never gets old. Plus, it’s like a blank canvas; you can add whatever veggies you have on hand or throw in some extra spices to make it your own.
Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole Ingredients
The magic of this Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole truly lies in the harmony of its ingredients. Each one plays a pivotal role, coming together to create the comforting symphony that this dish embodies. Don’t worry about exact measurements just yet; those are all in the recipe card for you!
Essential Components
- 2 tablespoons butter: This is your flavor base, perfect for browning the chicken and giving an inviting aroma.
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts or 2 cups rotisserie chicken: The star protein that keeps the dish filling and satisfying.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A lovely blend that brings those aromatic Italian vibes.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Essential for elevating flavors—don’t skip this!
- 2½ cups chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps to brown the chicken beautifully without burning the butter.
- 1¼ cups white long grain rice: The hearty foundation that absorbs all the delicious flavors.
- 2–3 cups broccoli florets: These little gems pack a mighty punch of nutrition and vibrant color.
- 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup: The creamy element that binds everything together.
- ½ cup milk: For that luscious texture that makes it irresistibly creamy.
- ½ cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and extra creaminess to the mix.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Because cheese makes everything better—especially when it’s oozy and melty!
- ½ tsp dried thyme (optional): A fantastic herb to enhance the flavor profile.
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional): Adds an aromatic kick.
- 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed: For the crunchy topping that makes the casserole irresistible.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: To make the cracker topping extra crispy and golden.
Substitutions and Tips
Need a swap? If you’re out of broccoli, feel free to toss in some frozen peas or chopped spinach instead. Want to keep it lighter? You can substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream. The flavor will differ slightly, but it will still lead to a delicious outcome (though it won’t be quite as rich).
Also, if you’re selecting chicken, rotisserie chicken is a major time-saver, allowing for quick assembly. And remember, if you prefer a bit more zing—go ahead and sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. This casserole is very forgiving, so feel free to experiment!
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet (12-inch preferred)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Casserole dish (3-quart)
- Spoon or spatula
- Cutting board
- Knife
How to Make Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole
Let’s dive into creating this creamy Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole. I’ve broken down the process into simple steps, so follow along, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time. We’re aiming for a bubbly, golden delight that’s as comforting as it is mouthwatering!
Sear the Chicken in Butter
First, melt the butter in your skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear them until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 7 to 8 minutes per side. This step is key for adding depth to your casserole—don’t rush it! Once done, set the chicken aside to cool slightly before chopping it into bite-sized pieces.
Build the Flavor Base
Next, in the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and olive oil, scraping up any browned bits left from the chicken. This is where the magic happens! Toss in the rice and bring it to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 6 minutes.
Add the Broccoli
Now, it’s time to fold in the broccoli florets. Stir them in gently, then cover and simmer for another 9 minutes until the rice is fluffy and the broccoli is tender but still vibrant. This is all about balance—cooked, but not mushy!
Let It Rest
Once the rice has absorbed the broth, remove the skillet from heat. Let it sit, covered, for about 10 minutes. This step lets everything settle and ensures the rice is perfectly tender.
Create the Creamy Mixture
Once rested, it’s time to stir in the chopped chicken, cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix it all together until combined and creamy—this will be the heart of your casserole!
Assemble the Dish
Transfer the creamy mixture into your greased casserole dish. Spread it out evenly, and now it’s time to sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Love that cheesy goodness!
Bake Until Bubbly
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then cover the casserole with foil and bake for about 15 minutes. This keeps everything nice and cozy as the cheese melts into perfection.
Add the Crunchy Topping
Finally, remove the foil, sprinkle the crushed Ritz crackers over the top, and drizzle with melted butter. Return it to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the topping is golden and crispy. Oh, yeah!
Allow to Cool
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. This helps the layers settle and makes it easier to scoop. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
How to Store Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole
Leftovers of this casserole keep beautifully! Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to extend its life, you can freeze it for about 2-3 months—just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. Pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, and you’ll be back to enjoying that delightful flavor!
Tips for Success
- Don’t rush the browning of the chicken; that’s where flavor develops.
- Use fresh broccoli for the best texture.
- If using frozen broccoli, add it during the last few minutes of the rice cooking to avoid mushiness.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning after mixing everything together—perfect seasoning makes a world of difference!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp side salad for a fresh balance.
- Pair it with crusty garlic bread to soak up all that creamy goodness.
- Drizzle with additional hot sauce for those who love a kick!
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for pops of color.
- Enjoy with a chilled glass of white wine or iced tea for a lovely meal!
This Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole truly encapsulates the comfort and joy of home-cooked meals. I hope you enjoy making it as much as my family loves devouring it!
