Name: Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Rice Casserole with Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter; 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces (or 2 cups diced rotisserie chicken); Salt, to taste; Pepper, to taste; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Optional: ½ teaspoon dried thyme; Optional: ½ teaspoon garlic powder; 2 ½ cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 ¼ cups white long grain rice, uncooked; 2-3 cups fresh broccoli florets, uncooked; 10.5 oz. cream of chicken soup (condensed); ½ cup milk; ½ cup sour cream; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided; 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed; 2 tablespoons melted butter

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There is something incredibly comforting and downright irresistible about this Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Rice Casserole with Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe. It’s a perfect harmony of tender chicken, fluffy rice, vibrant broccoli, and rich, melty cheddar cheese, all crowned with a buttery, crunchy Ritz cracker topping that adds a delightful texture contrast. Whether you’re feeding a busy family on a weeknight or preparing ahead for a crowd, this casserole brings warmth and flavor in every forkful. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a beloved classic in your kitchen.

A beige baking dish filled with a creamy casserole that shows three main layers: the bottom layer is a soft, cheesy white mix; the middle layer has green broccoli pieces scattered throughout; and the top layer has melted orange-yellow cheese mixed with crunchy, golden brown crumbs spread unevenly, giving a textured appearance. A woman's hand holds a wooden spoon scooping some casserole out, showing the creamy and chunky inside with broccoli and melted cheese. Next to the dish, a white plate sits on a piece of brown burlap on a white marbled surface, with a serving of the casserole piled on it, showing the same colorful mix of cheese and broccoli. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and texture. Each one plays an essential role, from the tender chicken and fresh broccoli adding heartiness and color, to the creamy soup and cheese that bind it all into a luscious casserole. And don’t forget the iconic Ritz cracker topping that delivers a buttery crunch to finish it all off.

2 tablespoons butter: For cooking the chicken and adding richness to the dish.
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts or 2 cups diced rotisserie chicken: The protein star of the casserole.
Salt and pepper to taste: To season the chicken and balance flavors.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds a fragrant herby note to the chicken.
2 ½ cups chicken broth: Cooking liquid that infuses the rice with flavor.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Enhances cooking and lends a subtle fruitiness.
1 ¼ cups white long grain rice, uncooked: The fluffy base that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
2–3 cups fresh broccoli florets: Adds vibrant color, crunch, and nutrients.
10.5 oz. condensed Cream of Chicken Soup: The creamy binder that makes this casserole decadently moist.
½ cup milk: Lightens the soup while adding creaminess.
½ cup sour cream: Adds tang and silkiness to the filling.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: The melty, cheesy heart of this dish, with half for the filling and half for the topping.
Optional seasonings – ½ teaspoon dried thyme and ½ teaspoon garlic powder: To deepen the savory flavors if desired.
1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed: Creates that signature buttery, crisp topping.
2 tablespoons melted butter: Binds the cracker crumbs and infuses that irresistible golden flavor.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Rice Casserole with Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and seasoning them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Then, melt butter in a large pot over medium heat, adding the chicken to cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 minutes. This step builds a flavorful protein foundation and keeps the chicken juicy for the casserole. Set the chicken aside once done.

Step 2: Cook the Rice and Broccoli Together

In the same pot, pour in chicken broth and olive oil, then add the uncooked rice. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover tightly for 6 minutes. Next, stir in the broccoli florets, replace the lid, and let cook for an additional 9 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid fully absorbed. This method allows the broccoli to steam perfectly while the rice cooks, locking in freshness and color.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients for the Creamy Casserole Filling

Once the rice and broccoli are cooked, keep the pot covered off the heat and let it stand for 10 minutes – this resting time lets any remaining steam finish the cooking evenly. Then, mix in the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, optional seasonings, and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir everything together to combine into a rich, creamy filling that is bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Casserole

Transfer this cheesy filling into a greased 9 x 13-inch casserole dish, smoothing it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top, then cover and bake in a 350° F oven for 15 minutes to melt the cheese and let flavors meld beautifully. This creates a bubbly, cheesy layer that everyone craves.

Step 5: Add the Ritz Cracker Topping and Finish Baking

While the casserole bakes, combine melted butter with crushed Ritz crackers to create the topping. After the initial bake, uncover the casserole, sprinkle this buttery cracker mixture evenly over the surface, and return it to the oven to bake uncovered for another 10 minutes. The topping will turn golden and crispy, adding that iconic buttery crunch that makes this dish truly outstanding.

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Rice Casserole with Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe

Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Rice Casserole with Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

To add an extra pop of freshness and color, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or green onions over the casserole just before serving. A little dash of paprika also works wonders to make the golden crust even more inviting.

Side Dishes

This casserole shines as a complete meal but pairs beautifully with a simple crisp garden salad or roasted vegetables for more texture and freshness on the plate. Creamy mashed potatoes or a light vinaigrette-dressed slaw can also complement the richness without overpowering it.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving individual portions scooped into small ramekins with a sprinkle of extra crushed Ritz crackers on top. Alternatively, layering leftovers in a clear casserole dish showcases all the colorful ingredients beautifully — perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Rice Casserole with Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe keeps well in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain moisture and prevent the cracker topping from softening too much. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy your favorite comfort food again without extra effort.

Freezing

If you want to prepare in advance, this casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble the casserole through step 4, then cover tightly with foil and freeze before baking. When ready to enjoy, bake straight from frozen, adding extra baking time as needed. The Ritz cracker topping is best added fresh after thawing and just before the final baking to keep that crunchy texture.

Reheating

Reheat individual servings gently in the microwave until warmed through, or reheat the entire casserole in a 350° F oven (covered) until hot, about 20 minutes. For a crispier topping, uncover during the last 5 to 7 minutes of reheating. This keeps the casserole tasting just like freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole. Fresh broccoli helps retain that bright color and a slight crunch, but frozen works fine in a pinch.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with cubed cooked tofu or additional vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and a cream of mushroom soup to keep it creamy and delicious.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free condiments and substituting the Ritz cracker topping with gluten-free crackers or crushed gluten-free bread crumbs. Double-check that the cream of chicken soup is gluten-free or make your own sauce from scratch.

How do I adjust the rice if I want to use brown rice?

Brown rice takes longer to cook and requires more liquid. You’ll need to increase the chicken broth by about ½ cup and cook the rice for about 15 minutes before adding the broccoli. Expect a longer simmering time to ensure the rice is tender.

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken instead of fresh chicken breasts?

Definitely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds delicious roasted flavor. Just dice it into bite-sized pieces and fold it into the casserole filling at step 3, skipping the initial chicken cooking step.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Rice Casserole with Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe is comfort food at its finest—simple, flavorful, and downright satisfying. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug, perfect for sharing with loved ones any day of the week. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and discover just how easy it is to make a classic crowd-pleaser that tastes so special.

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