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Cozy Crockpot Chicken and Rice Casserole with Broccoli Cheddar

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A creamy, comforting crockpot casserole combining chicken breasts, rice, broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese for an easy, hands-off meal perfect for busy days.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large skinless, boneless chicken breasts (frozen or thawed)
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice (about 190 grams)
  • 1.5 cups frozen broccoli florets (about 150 grams)
  • 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 170 grams)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz or 298 grams) condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 2 cups low sodium chicken broth (480 ml)
  • 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%, 120 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (optional)

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease the crockpot insert with olive oil or butter to prevent sticking and add richness.
  2. Pour 1 cup (190 g) of uncooked white rice evenly across the bottom of the crockpot.
  3. Arrange the 2 large frozen chicken breasts directly on top of the rice, overlapping slightly if needed.
  4. Scatter 1.5 cups (150 g) of frozen broccoli florets over the chicken; no need to thaw.
  5. In a bowl, whisk together 1 can (298 g) condensed cream of chicken soup, 2 cups (480 ml) chicken broth, 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Pour the soup mixture evenly over the ingredients in the crockpot. Do not stir.
  7. Cover and cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours or LOW for 6-7 hours. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking.
  8. After cooking, test the chicken with a fork to ensure it is fully cooked and tender.
  9. Remove chicken breasts and shred them with two forks, then return shredded chicken to the crockpot.
  10. Stir in 1.5 cups (170 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
  11. Gently mix everything to combine the cheese and broccoli evenly. Serve warm.
  12. If casserole is too liquidy after cooking, remove lid and cook on HIGH for an additional 15-20 minutes to thicken.

Notes

Use frozen chicken breasts to keep them moist and save prep time. Do not stir rice before cooking to avoid clumping. Add cheese at the end to keep it melty. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain heat. For fresh broccoli, steam lightly before adding. For gluten-free, ensure cream soup is gluten-free or make homemade sauce. For dairy-free, substitute cheese and milk with alternatives and use dairy-free soup.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot chicken casserole, chicken and rice, broccoli cheddar casserole, slow cooker recipe, easy dinner, comfort food

Find it online: https://leilameals.com/cozy-crockpot-chicken-and-rice-casserole-recipe-easy-homemade-broccoli-cheddar-meal/