One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food

Imagine coming home after a long day, craving a meal that’s comforting, hearty, and made in just one pot. That’s exactly what One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole delivers—a dish that’s packed with tender chicken, creamy rice, fresh broccoli, and gooey cheese. It’s a family-friendly recipe that’s easy to prepare, leaving you with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

This recipe is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or hosting a cozy gathering, this casserole checks all the boxes:

• One Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in one skillet, saving time and effort.
• Balanced Nutrition: Includes protein, vegetables, and carbs in one dish.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust ingredients to suit your taste.
• Perfect Comfort Food: The creamy, cheesy goodness satisfies your soul.

Let’s dive into how to make this mouthwatering casserole from scratch.

Ingredients for One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Here’s everything you’ll need for this recipe:

Category	Ingredients
Base	1 tablespoon olive oil
Protein	2 chicken breasts (cubed)
Vegetables	1 small onion (chopped), 2 cups broccoli florets
Seasonings	¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, 4 cloves garlic (minced)
Rice & Liquids	¾ cup uncooked rice, 10 oz cream of chicken soup (1 can), 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
Cheese & Garnish	1 cup cheddar cheese, 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)

These simple, pantry-friendly ingredients create a dish that’s full of flavor and easy to prepare.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Onion and Chicken

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cubed chicken. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken starts to brown and is no longer pink.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, letting the garlic become aromatic.

Step 2: Add the Rice and Liquids

1. Stir in the uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Start with 2 cups of broth and add more if needed during cooking.
2. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the rice is evenly coated and submerged.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

1. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet with a lid.
2. Cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Step 4: Add Broccoli and Cheese

1. Stir in the broccoli florets and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Cook for 2 more minutes, allowing the broccoli to soften slightly.
2. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top of the casserole.

Step 5: Broil for a Cheesy Finish

1. Place the skillet under the broiler for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese melts and starts to brown.
2. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Tips for the Best One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

1. Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets work best, but frozen broccoli can be used if thawed and drained beforehand.
2. Choose the Right Rice: Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors well. Avoid instant rice, as it can become mushy.
3. Don’t Skip the Broil: Broiling adds a golden, bubbly layer of cheese that elevates the dish.
4. Make It Creamier: For an extra creamy casserole, stir in ¼ cup of sour cream or cream cheese before adding the broccoli.
5. Add Extra Veggies: Carrots, peas, or mushrooms make great additions to this casserole.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount (Per Serving)
Calories	320
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	25g
Fat	12g
Fiber	3g

Delicious Variations to Try

1. Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for a spicy kick.
2. Swap the Cheese: Use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses for different flavors.
3. Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of fresh chicken breasts.
4. Make It Vegetarian: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
5. Add Bacon: Sprinkle cooked, crumbled bacon over the cheese layer for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with these sides for a well-rounded dinner:

• Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up the cheesy rice and chicken.
• Steamed Vegetables: A side of steamed asparagus or green beans complements this dish beautifully.

FAQs About One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the casserole up to the broiling step. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, reheat on the stove and broil before serving.

2. Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely. Let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

3. What other protein can I use?
You can substitute chicken with turkey, shrimp, or even diced ham.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture.

5. Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook and may require additional broth. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

6. Is there a dairy-free option?
For a dairy-free version, use a cream of chicken soup alternative and dairy-free cheese. Coconut cream can replace heavy cream for added creaminess.

Conclusion

One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is the perfect combination of comfort and convenience. With tender chicken, creamy rice, fresh broccoli, and melted cheese, it’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or looking for a satisfying one-pot meal, this recipe is your go-to solution.

So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the magic of creating a delicious meal in just one pot. You’ll love the ease, your family will love the flavor, and you’ll all appreciate the minimal cleanup!

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