Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
. Cook Chicken:
Using Fresh Chicken: In a large skillet, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before dicing.
Using Rotisserie Chicken: Simply dice or shred 2 cups of rotisserie chicken and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice and Broccoli
. Cook Rice:
In the same skillet, add the olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the uncooked rice and stir to coat in the oil. Toast the rice for about 2-3 minutes until it begins to turn golden.
Add 2 1/2 cups of chicken broth to the skillet with the rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
. Add Broccoli:
Stir in the fresh broccoli florets and cover the skillet again. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
. Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, milk, and sour cream. Stir until smooth.
. Add Cheese:
Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
. Add Optional Seasonings:
If using, add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder to the sauce mixture for extra flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
. Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
. Combine Chicken, Rice, and Broccoli:
Add the cooked chicken, rice, and broccoli mixture to the sauce. Stir to combine everything well.
. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 5: Add Topping
. Prepare Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Stir until the crackers are evenly coated.
. Add Topping:
Sprinkle the Ritz cracker topping evenly over the cheese layer on the casserole.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
. Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, the topping is golden brown, and the casserole is heated through.
Step 7: Serve
. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this comforting and delicious dish with your family and friends!
Cooking Notes and Tips
