Description
A low-effort, high-reward weeknight dinner where all ingredients are combined in one dish and baked until creamy and cheesy. This recipe requires zero active chopping and results in a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1-inch cubes
- 3 cups frozen broccoli florets
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp butter (for greasing dish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- In the baking dish or a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add the uncooked rice, diced chicken, and frozen broccoli to the wet mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly until every grain of rice is submerged in the liquid.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam.
- Bake covered for 30 minutes. Do not open the oven door during this time.
- Remove from oven and carefully peel back the foil. Check that rice is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Return to oven uncovered and bake for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow sauce to thicken.
Notes
Do not use instant or brown rice unless adjusting liquid and time significantly. Do not thaw frozen broccoli as it releases water and makes the casserole soupy. Letting the casserole rest for 10 minutes is crucial for the sauce to thicken properly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of the casserole
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 25
Keywords: dump and bake, chicken casserole, broccoli rice, easy weeknight dinner, one pot meal, comfort food, family friendly