Recipes

One Pot Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole 2023

 

 

 

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 chicken breasts, cut into small cubes
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¾ cup rice, uncooked
  • 10 ounces cream of chicken soup (1 can)
  • 2 cups chicken broth, low sodium
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Onion and Chicken:
    • Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cubed chicken. Cook for about 5 minutes until the chicken starts to brown and is no longer pink. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until garlic becomes aromatic.
  2. Add the Rice and Liquids:
    • Add the rice, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Begin with 2 cups of chicken broth and add more if needed. Stir well to combine.
  3. Cook the Rice:
    • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Taste for seasoning and adjust as necessary.
  4. Finish with Broccoli and Cheese:
    • Add the broccoli florets and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the broccoli to soften. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top. Place the skillet under the broiler for a couple more minutes, just until the cheese melts and starts to brown.
  5. Garnish and Serve:
    • Garnish the casserole with fresh chopped parsley. Serve the One Pot Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole directly from the skillet, family-style.

Enjoy this comforting and delicious one-pot meal that brings together the goodness of chicken, broccoli, rice, and cheesy goodness!

Here are some tips to enhance and perfect your One Pot Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole:

  1. Use High-Quality Ingredients:
    • Whenever possible, use high-quality chicken, fresh broccoli, and good-quality cheddar cheese. Quality ingredients can significantly impact the overall flavor of the dish.
  2. Add Seasonings:
    • Enhance the flavor profile by incorporating additional seasonings such as dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
  3. Customize the Cheese Blend:
    • Experiment with different cheese blends for added depth of flavor. A mix of cheddar and mozzarella can provide a gooey and stretchy texture, while a bit of Parmesan can add a sharp, savory kick.
  4. Precook the Broccoli:
    • If you prefer a firmer texture for the broccoli, blanch or steam it for a few minutes before adding it to the casserole. This ensures that the broccoli maintains a vibrant color and a slight crunch.
  5. Use Aromatics:
    • Increase the aromatic elements by adding finely chopped celery or bell peppers along with the onion. This can add complexity to the flavor profile of the dish.
  6. Fresh Herbs for Garnish:
    • Consider adding a variety of fresh herbs, such as chopped basil or cilantro, for a burst of freshness when serving.
  7. Brown the Cheese Under Broiler:
    • To achieve a golden and bubbly cheese topping, place the skillet under the broiler for a few minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning, and let the cheese develop a delicious crust.
  8. Add a Squeeze of Lemon:
    • A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can brighten up the flavors and cut through the richness of the cheese and cream of chicken soup.
  9. Customize with Veggies:
    • Feel free to add other vegetables like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added color, nutrients, and flavor variation.
  10. Let It Rest:
    • Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the flavors meld together, and it makes serving and portioning easier.

Remember, these are suggestions, and you can always tailor the recipe to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy creating your delightful and customized One Pot Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole!

Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers related to the One Pot Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole:

  1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
    • Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice. Keep in mind that brown rice may require a longer cooking time and additional liquid.
  2. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
    • Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Add it directly to the casserole during the last few minutes of cooking, allowing it to thaw and cook through.
  3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
    • Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of placing it under the broiler. Cover it and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bring it to room temperature and broil to melt the cheese.
  4. What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
    • Cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup can be good substitutes. You can also make a homemade white sauce with chicken broth, butter, and flour.
  5. Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
    • Absolutely! Customize the casserole by adding vegetables like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for additional flavor and nutrition.
  6. How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the skillet?
    • Ensure that the skillet is well-greased before adding the ingredients. Additionally, stirring the rice occasionally while cooking can help prevent sticking.
  7. Can I use a different type of cheese?
    • Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses. Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend can be used for a unique flavor and texture.
  8. How can I make this dish spicier?
    • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the dish, or incorporate diced jalapeños for some heat.
  9. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts?
    • Yes, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Add it to the casserole when you would normally add the raw chicken, just to heat it through.
  10. What should I serve with this casserole?
    • This casserole is a complete meal, but you can serve it with a side salad or crusty bread for a more substantial dinner.

Feel free to adapt the recipe based on your preferences and dietary needs!

Achieving the perfect One Pot Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole involves a combination of techniques and attention to detail. Here are some secrets to elevate your casserole game:

  1. Preheat the Skillet:
    • Make sure the skillet is preheated before adding the chicken. This helps in achieving a nice sear on the chicken, enhancing the overall flavor.
  2. Sear the Chicken Well:
    • Take the time to brown the chicken cubes properly. This step adds a layer of flavor to the dish and contributes to the appealing color.
  3. Use Low-Sodium Chicken Broth:
    • Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content in the dish. You can always adjust the seasoning later if needed.
  4. Season at Each Step:
    • Season the chicken as it cooks, season the rice mixture before it simmers, and taste for seasoning before finishing under the broiler. Layering the seasoning ensures a well-balanced flavor.
  5. Monitor Rice Cooking Time:
    • Keep an eye on the rice cooking time to prevent overcooking. Rice that is slightly al dente works best for a casserole, as it will continue to cook a bit under the broiler.
  6. Add Cheese Gradually:
    • When incorporating cheese, add it gradually and stir continuously. This ensures a smooth and even distribution of cheese throughout the casserole.
  7. Fresh Broccoli:
    • If using fresh broccoli, cut it into uniform-sized florets for even cooking. Add it towards the end to preserve its vibrant color and crisp texture.
  8. Choose the Right Cheese:
    • Experiment with different types of cheese or a combination of cheeses for a richer and more complex flavor profile.
  9. Broil for a Perfect Cheese Crust:
    • Under the broiler, keep a close eye on the casserole to prevent burning. Allow the cheese to melt and develop a golden-brown crust for that perfect finishing touch.
  10. Let It Rest:
    • Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the flavors to settle and makes serving easier.
  11. Garnish Thoughtfully:
    • Fresh herbs like parsley not only add a pop of color but also freshness to the dish. Consider adding them just before serving for a burst of flavor.
  12. Experiment with Add-Ins:
    • Feel free to add extras like cooked bacon, diced sun-dried tomatoes, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to add layers of flavor.

Remember, these tips are meant to guide you, and the beauty of cooking lies in making adjustments based on your personal preferences. Enjoy the process, and savor the delightful outcome of your One Pot Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole!