Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food

Chicken broccoli rice casserole is a timeless classic, a dish that evokes feelings of warmth and home-cooked goodness. This recipe takes that comforting casserole and elevates it with a creamy, cheesy sauce, tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a satisfyingly crunchy Ritz cracker topping, reminiscent of the hearty, family-friendly meals championed by the Pioneer Woman. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole is easy to assemble and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Casserole Dish filled with cheesy pioneer woman broccoli chicken and rice casserole with a wooden spoon scooping some out.

This Pioneer Woman inspired chicken broccoli rice casserole is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, eager to dig into the layers of flavor and texture. Imagine tender pieces of chicken nestled amongst fluffy rice and broccoli florets, all enveloped in a rich, homemade cream sauce and topped with buttery, golden Ritz crackers. This is comfort food at its finest, perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a heartwarming and satisfying meal.

This recipe draws inspiration from classic casserole traditions while incorporating fresh ingredients and homemade touches that elevate it above the ordinary. Forget bland, canned soup casseroles – this Pioneer Woman broccoli chicken rice casserole features a flavorful base made with chicken broth and a creamy sauce that you can easily whip up from scratch. Using fresh or frozen broccoli, cooked chicken breasts or convenient rotisserie chicken, and pantry staples, you can create a dish that is both comforting and wholesome.

Ingredients for Your Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole

See the recipe card below for detailed measurements and instructions.

Butter: Essential for sautéing the chicken and creating the flavorful Ritz cracker topping.
Chicken Breasts: Provide lean protein. You can also use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Italian Seasoning: Adds a layer of savory flavor to the chicken.
Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhances all the flavors in the casserole.
Olive Oil: Used in combination with butter to cook the rice.
Chicken Broth: Cooks the rice and infuses it with rich chicken flavor, forming the base of the casserole.
White Long Grain Rice: Provides the perfect texture for a creamy casserole. Avoid minute rice for best results.
Broccoli Florets: Fresh or frozen broccoli works well, adding a healthy vegetable component.
Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup: While the recipe suggests homemade cream of chicken soup for the best flavor, you can also use a can of Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup for a quicker option.
Milk: Adds creaminess to the sauce. Any type of milk will work.
Sour Cream: Contributes to the tangy richness of the casserole. Mayonnaise can be substituted if preferred.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese provides a sharp, cheesy flavor. For best melting, use a block cheese and shred it yourself. Cracker Barrel Extra Sharp Yellow cheese is recommended for its excellent melting properties. Avoid pre-shredded cheeses which may contain cellulose and not melt as smoothly.

For the Signature Ritz Cracker Topping:

Ritz Crackers: The key to that buttery, crunchy topping that makes this casserole so irresistible.
Butter: Melted butter binds the crushed Ritz crackers and adds richness and flavor.

Consider using unsalted butter and low sodium chicken broth, especially if using rotisserie chicken, to control the sodium content.

Tips for the Best Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole

This recipe is flexible and forgiving, but here are a few tips to ensure your Pioneer Woman broccoli chicken rice casserole turns out perfectly every time:

Choose the Right Rice: Long grain rice is recommended for its creamy consistency. Avoid minute rice as it can become mushy in casseroles. Brown rice or wild rice can be used, but they require longer cooking times and more liquid. Refer to package directions for liquid ratios and cooking times if substituting.
Fresh or Frozen Broccoli: Both fresh and frozen broccoli florets work well. If using frozen broccoli, thaw it completely and pat it dry to remove excess moisture. Steaming frozen broccoli before adding it to the casserole can help achieve a softer texture.
Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver. Two cups of diced rotisserie chicken is the perfect amount for this recipe. Be mindful of the salt content of rotisserie chicken and consider using low sodium chicken broth.
Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup: For the most flavorful casserole, try making your own cream of chicken soup. It’s surprisingly easy and makes a big difference in the overall taste. A link to a homemade cream of chicken soup recipe is conveniently provided in the ingredients list.
Don’t Overcook the Rice: Follow the rice cooking instructions carefully to avoid mushy rice. The rice should be cooked through but still slightly firm when you add the other ingredients.
Cheese Matters: Using a good quality cheddar cheese that melts well is key to a cheesy, gooey casserole. Shredding your own cheese from a block is always recommended for optimal melting.

Overhead shot of Pioneer Woman broccoli cheddar chicken and rice casserole with wooden spoon in the dish, ready to serve.

Make-Ahead Instructions for Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole

One of the great things about casseroles is their make-ahead convenience. This Pioneer Woman broccoli chicken rice casserole is perfect for preparing in advance, making it ideal for busy weeknights or potlucks.

Refrigerator Method:

Assemble the casserole as directed, but do not bake.
Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Before baking, let the casserole sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to take the chill off.
Bake as directed, adding 15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
Add the Ritz cracker topping during the last 10 minutes of baking to keep it crispy.

Freezer Method:

Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, but do not bake.
Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw the casserole in the refrigerator for 24 hours before baking.
Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
Bake as directed, adding 15 minutes to the baking time.
Add the Ritz cracker topping during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover Pioneer Woman broccoli chicken rice casserole in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This casserole freezes exceptionally well for up to 3 months.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave from a frozen state for a quick lunch.
For best results and to crisp up the topping, reheat larger portions in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.

Why You’ll Love This Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole

This Pioneer Woman broccoli chicken rice casserole is destined to become a family favorite. It’s:

Comforting and Delicious: The creamy, cheesy sauce, tender chicken, and crunchy topping are a match made in comfort food heaven.
Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, this casserole is perfect for weeknight cooking.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance for stress-free meal times.
Versatile: Customize it with different cheeses, vegetables, or seasonings to suit your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit at potlucks, family gatherings, or any occasion where you need a satisfying and delicious dish.

Ready to experience the ultimate comfort food? Try this Pioneer Woman broccoli chicken rice casserole recipe tonight and bring smiles to your dinner table!

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Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe

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Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 50 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

4.95 from 867 ratings

Servings: 6 people
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This Cheesy Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole is an easy make-ahead meal that you can assemble and bake another day! Your family will love the buttery, crunchy Ritz topping!

Ingredients

US Customary – Metric

2 Tablespoons butter
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, or 2 cups diced rotisserie chicken
1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
Salt/Pepper, to taste
2 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 Tablespoon olive oil
1 1/4 cups white long grain rice, uncooked
2 cups fresh broccoli florets, uncooked
10.5 oz. Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup
½ cup milk
½ cup sour cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, separated

Optional Seasonings

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Casserole Topping

1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed
2 Tablespoons melted butter

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Instructions

Note: This recipe is designed to allow you to prepare all of the casserole ingredients in one pot before transferring to a casserole dish for baking. Before you begin, refer to your rice package for the amount of liquid (we’ll use chicken broth) and cooking time. I use white long grain rice and the cooking time/liquid amount below works perfectly.
Preheat the oven to 350° F.
Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with Italian seasoning and desired amount of salt and pepper.
Heat butter in a large pot over medium heat until melted. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside. Note: This step is not needed if using a cooked rotisserie chicken.
Add the chicken broth, olive oil, and rice to the pot and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
Cover tightly and cook for 6 minutes.
Add the broccoli and replace the cover. Cook for 9 more minutes, or until no liquid remains in the pot and the rice is cooked through. (If it’s not cooked through yet, quickly replace lid and simmer 5 more minutes, or until cooked through.)
Turn off the heat and leave the cover on. Let the rice stand for 10 minutes, do not stir. Any rice on the bottom of the pot will release.
Add the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, optional seasonings, and half of the cheddar cheese to the pot of rice.
Add to a lightly greased 9 x 13 casserole dish and top with remaining cheese.
Cover and bake for 15 minutes.

Add the Topping:

Melt the butter and crush the crackers. Combine to form the topping for the casserole.
Sprinkle the crumbled cracker topping over the casserole and bake uncovered for 10 additional minutes.
Let stand for 5 minutes prior to serving.

Notes

Pro Tips: Make-Ahead Method: Assemble Now, Bake Later.–

Refrigerator

This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 2 days prior to baking. Let it sit out for 30 minutes prior to baking and add 15 minutes to baking time.
The cracker/butter topping should be added at the end of baking.

Freezer:

Assemble the casserole as outlined and do not bake. Let it thaw for 24 hours in the fridge. Let it sit out for 30 minutes prior to baking and add 15 minutes to baking time.
The cracker/butter topping should be added at the end of baking.

The Nutritional information provided is an estimate and is per serving. This recipe makes 6 servings.

Nutrition

Calories: 511kcal, Carbohydrates: 30g, Protein: 23g, Fat: 33g, Saturated Fat: 17g, Trans Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 100mg, Sodium: 1174mg, Potassium: 470mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 3g, Vitamin A: 1068IU, Vitamin C: 35mg, Calcium: 376mg, Iron: 2mg

Did you try this recipe? Mention @TheCozyCook on Instagram or tag #thecozycook!

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Author: Stephanie

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posted by Stephanie on March 3, 2019 — 2,379 Comments »