Description
A kid-friendly, creamy casserole that turns dinner prep into a fun family activity. This easy-to-make dish uses simple ingredients like rotisserie chicken, rice, and broccoli, resulting in a comforting meal that even picky eaters will enjoy.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
- 3 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 2 cups frozen broccoli florets, thawed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear. In a large pot, bring 4 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Add rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until tender. Drain any excess water and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a large skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until light golden (roux).
- Slowly pour in milk while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps. Add garlic powder, parsley, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, shredded chicken, and broccoli. Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture and stir gently until evenly coated.
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour the mixture into the dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top. If using, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown. If using breadcrumbs, broil for the last 1-2 minutes to crisp (watch closely).
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Notes
Do not overcook the rice as it will absorb more liquid in the casserole. Thaw frozen broccoli to prevent excess water. Shred your own cheese for better melting. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to ensure it sets properly and isn’t soupy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 16
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 22
Keywords: chicken casserole, broccoli rice, family dinner, kid-friendly recipes, comfort food, easy weeknight meals, cheesy casserole