Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole with Ritz Cracker Topping
This cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Made with tender chicken, fluffy rice, fresh broccoli, and plenty of melted cheddar cheese, it’s all baked under a buttery Ritz cracker topping. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family dinners, this casserole is creamy, hearty, and customizable with pantry staples. A family-friendly chicken bake that combines vegetables, protein, and carbs in one satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts or 2 cups diced rotisserie chicken
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- salt and black pepper to taste
- 2.5 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1.25 cups long-grain white rice uncooked
- 2-3 cups broccoli florets fresh, uncooked
- 10.5 oz condensed cream of chicken soup
- 0.5 cup milk
- 0.5 cup sour cream
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded, divided
Optional Seasonings
- 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme optional
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder optional
Casserole Topping
- 1 cup Ritz crackers crushed
- 2 tablespoons butter melted
Instructions
Casserole Assembly
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside. Skip this step if using cooked rotisserie chicken.
- In the same pot, combine chicken broth, olive oil, and rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover tightly and cook for 6 minutes.
- Add broccoli, cover again, and cook for 9 minutes or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. If not fully cooked, simmer for 5 more minutes. Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, optional seasonings, and half the cheddar cheese.
- Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top. Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
Casserole Topping
- In a small bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter.
- Uncover the casserole and sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the surface. Bake uncovered for 10 more minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain well to avoid excess liquid.
- For extra flavor, try a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- Brown rice can be used but will require extra broth and a longer cooking time.