If you’re craving a wholesome, hearty meal that’s comforting yet fuss-free, this One Pot Broccoli, Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Picture tender chicken pieces mingling with fluffy rice and vibrant broccoli, all baked into a creamy, cheesy casserole that comes together in just one pot. It’s a beautiful harmony of flavors and textures that screams family dinner done right, and it’s packed with goodness without any overwhelming steps. Whether you’re feeding a busy weeknight crowd or simply want something delicious with minimal cleanup, this recipe promises warm, satisfying bites from start to finish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple ingredients means you can whip up this casserole easily while still hitting all the right notes in flavor, texture, and color. Each item plays a meaningful role, from the butter and olive oil that start the flavor base, to the fresh broccoli that adds color and crunch, making every bite a joy.
- Unsalted butter (2 tbsp): Provides a rich, creamy base that helps marry all the flavors together perfectly.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Adds a subtle fruity touch and helps with sautéing without overpowering the dish.
- Finely chopped onion (1 medium): Brings sweetness and a subtle depth when softened early in cooking.
- Minced garlic cloves (2): Infuses a fragrant punch that wakes up all the other ingredients.
- Chicken thighs, bite-sized (500g): Tender and juicy, these pieces absorb the sauce beautifully and stay moist.
- Flour (2.5 tbsp) or cornflour (1 ½ tbsp): Creates the creamy sauce that binds the casserole without being heavy.
- Milk (2 cups, any kind): Keeps the texture silky and smooth, making every spoonful comforting.
- Chicken broth (2 cups): Deepens flavor and helps cook the rice perfectly while infusing richness.
- Long grain white rice, uncooked (1 1/4 cups): Fluffy and tender, it serves as the hearty base for the whole dish.
- Dried thyme (1 tsp): Offers a gentle herbal aroma that ties the savoriness together.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance every ingredient.
- Broccoli florets (1 large head, 400-500g): Adds fresh green color and a slight crunch for vibrant contrast.
- Shredded cheese (2 cups, mozzarella or cheddar): Melts into a luscious topping that seals in the creamy goodness.
- Chopped parsley (optional): A fresh, bright garnish to finish the dish with a pop of color.
How to Make One Pot Broccoli, Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Chicken
Start by melting the butter with olive oil in a large pot over high heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic and cook for just about a minute until they release their glorious aromas. Now add the chicken pieces and cook until the pink fades to white, indicating everything is ready for the sauce to come together. This first step sets the groundwork for rich, satisfying flavor.
Step 2: Add the Flour to Create the Roux
Reduce the heat to medium and sprinkle in the flour, stirring continuously for a minute. This step is the magic behind the casserole’s creamy texture. Heating the flour briefly helps it cook out any raw taste and thickens the sauce as the liquid is added. It’s a gentle but vital move that can’t be skipped.
Step 3: Combine the Milk Gradually
Pour in half the milk slowly while stirring to prevent lumps, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the flour. Once integrated, add the rest of the milk with continued stirring. Taking your time here makes the sauce silky smooth, ensuring each grain of rice will soak up the perfect creamy consistency.
Step 4: Add Broth, Rice, and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken broth with the rice, dried thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. These ingredients collectively add depth and seasoning that transform this into a comfort food classic. Give everything a good stir, making sure the rice is well distributed.
Step 5: Simmer and Cook the Rice
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the pot and lower the heat to medium-low. Let it cook undisturbed for about 12 minutes so the rice absorbs the liquid perfectly and becomes tender. This calm time is when the dish really starts to come together in harmony.
Step 6: Add Broccoli and Finish Cooking
Remove the lid carefully; you should still see some liquid pooling on top. Quickly fold in the broccoli florets, gently pushing them down to submerge as much as possible. Cover and cook for an additional 3 minutes until the broccoli is just tender but still vibrant and fresh. This step ensures your greens stay bright and nutritious.
Step 7: Melt in the Cheese Under the Grill
Preheat your grill or broiler. Stir half of the shredded cheese into the casserole—don’t panic if the sauce seems a bit runny; it thickens as the rice swells further. Smooth the top and sprinkle on the remaining cheese. Grill for a few minutes until bubbly and golden, creating that irresistible cheesy crust on top. Alternatively, place the lid back on and allow cheese to melt gently with residual heat off the stove.
Step 8: Serve with a Fresh Garnish
Dish out this beautiful casserole immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of bright parsley if you like. This final touch adds freshness and a burst of color to your comforting meal. You’re now ready to dig into a plateful of cozy, creamy goodness.
How to Serve One Pot Broccoli, Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding finely chopped parsley or freshly cracked black pepper on top not only boosts the visual appeal but also adds layers of flavor and freshness. A light drizzle of olive oil after plating can also elevate the dish with a hint of fruity richness. These simple garnishes make each serving feel intentional and special.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands beautifully on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or a light vinaigrette-dressed cucumber salad adds a refreshing contrast that balances the creamy richness. For an extra touch of indulgence, garlic bread or crusty rolls work wonderfully to scoop up every bit of that cheesy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this One Pot Broccoli, Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe straight from a rustic ceramic dish for charming family-style warmth. Or scoop portions into individual ramekins for an elegant touch when serving guests. Layering the cheese thoughtfully and letting it brown just right creates a beautiful crust that invites eager hands to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. The casserole will stay fresh for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your next meal taste even better!
Freezing
This casserole freezes well if stored properly. Let it cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the microwave or in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of milk or broth to rehydrate if it seems a bit thick. Stir halfway through reheating to ensure even warmth and gooey cheese throughout.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used, but since they are leaner, cook carefully to avoid drying them out. Thighs tend to stay juicier and more tender in this casserole.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free milk and cheese substitutes. Make sure your chosen cheese melts well to keep that comforting, cheesy feel.
Can I substitute another vegetable for broccoli?
Definitely! Cauliflower, green beans, or even peas can be delicious replacements. Just be mindful of cooking times so the veggies don’t get mushy or undercooked.
Do I have to use white rice, or can I use brown rice?
White rice cooks faster and gives the best creamy texture here. Brown rice takes longer and might require additional broth and longer cooking time, so it’s not ideal for this quick recipe.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance and refrigerate before cooking?
It’s best to cook the casserole fresh to get the perfect texture and timing. However, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time, storing them separately and assembling just before cooking.
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Broccoli, Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe really shines as a wonderful way to bring family and friends together around a warm, comforting meal without any stress. Its simplicity, wholesome ingredients, and hearty flavors make it a reliable go-to for busy nights or anytime you want something nourishing and delicious on the table. Give it a try—you might just find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again!
Print
One Pot Broccoli, Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This One Pot Broccoli, Chicken, and Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for a family meal. It combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and creamy rice all cooked together in a single pot, topped with melted cheese for extra flavor. Easy to prepare and packed with wholesome ingredients, this casserole offers a delicious balance of protein, vegetables, and starch, making it a satisfying and convenient weeknight dinner option.
Ingredients
Protein & Dairy
- 500g (1 lb) chicken thigh, cut into bite size pieces
- 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (or other cheese of choice)
- 2 cups (500 ml) milk (any, preferably low fat)
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 large head of broccoli, broken/cut into small florets (~400 – 500g / 14 oz – 1 lb)
- Finely chopped parsley (optional garnish)
Dry Ingredients & Seasonings
- 2.5 tbsp flour (or 1½ tbsp cornflour/cornstarch)
- 2 cups (500 ml) chicken broth
- 1¼ cups (225g) long grain white rice, uncooked
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or other herb of choice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare aromatics and chicken: Melt the butter and heat the olive oil in a pot over high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chicken thigh pieces and cook until they change color from pink to white, indicating they are partially cooked.
- Add flour: Lower the stove heat to medium. Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste and begin forming a roux base for the sauce.
- Incorporate milk: Gradually add half of the milk, stirring consistently to meld it into the flour. Once combined, pour in the remaining milk and continue stirring to create a smooth mixture without lumps.
- Add broth, rice, and seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth along with the uncooked long grain white rice and dried thyme. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer and partially cook rice: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover with a lid. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it cook undisturbed for 12 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb liquid and begin cooking through.
- Add broccoli and continue cooking: Remove the lid carefully; there should still be some liquid visible. Quickly add the broccoli florets and gently push them down so they’re partially submerged. Cover again and cook for an additional 3 minutes until the broccoli is just tender but still vibrant.
- Add cheese and melt: Preheat your grill or broiler. Remove the lid once more and fold in half of the shredded cheese, mixing slightly even if the mixture seems saucy. Smooth the surface evenly and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Place under the grill/broiler until the cheese melts and turns golden, or alternatively place the lid back on and let residual heat melt the cheese with the stove turned off.
- Serve: Serve the casserole hot, garnished with finely chopped parsley if desired for a fresh touch and added color.
Notes
- Note 1: Using chicken thigh adds tenderness and juiciness; chicken breast can be substituted but may be less moist.
- Note 2: Long grain white rice works best for texture and cooking time; other rice types may require adjustments.
- Note 3: Breaking broccoli into small florets ensures even cooking within the short steaming time.
- Note 4: Mozzarella or cheddar provides a creamy, melty texture; feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese.
- Note 5: Cooking the chicken until it changes color ensures it is safe and partially cooked before adding liquids.
