Description
Hearty chicken ham casserole with broccoli and rice delivers comfort straight from grandma’s kitchen. Creamy layers of protein, vegetables, and rich cheese create a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken ham, diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 1/4 cups white long-grain rice, uncooked
- 2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Liquid and Sauce Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 10.75 ounces (305 grams) cream of chicken soup
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Aromatics and Seasonings:
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, optional
Instructions
- Prepare the oven environment by heating to 350°F (175°C) and lightly coating a 9×13-inch baking vessel with cooking spray.
- Create a flavor base by melting butter in a large saucepan, then gently sautéing diced onions until they become translucent and fragrant.
- Introduce chicken broth, olive oil, and rice to the sautéed onions, bringing the mixture to a rolling boil before reducing to a gentle simmer and covering securely.
- Carefully layer broccoli atop the simmering rice without disturbing the underlying grains, then cover and continue cooking until rice reaches optimal tenderness.
- Remove the pan from heat and allow the rice to rest, enabling residual moisture to distribute evenly and prevent sticking.
- Fold in diced chicken ham, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and a generous portion of shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring thorough incorporation of all components.
- Transfer the harmonious mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly and adorning the surface with remaining cheese.
- Shield the casserole with aluminum foil and bake initially to develop underlying flavors.
- Craft a crisp topping by combining Ritz cracker crumbs with melted butter, creating a golden, crunchy texture.
- Uncover the casserole, sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture across the surface, and return to the oven to achieve a beautiful golden-brown finish.
- Grant the casserole a brief resting period, allowing ingredients to settle and flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- Optimize rice texture by using long-grain white rice for the best absorption and fluffiness.
- Remove excess moisture from broccoli before adding to prevent a watery casserole consistency.
- Substitute ham with rotisserie chicken or turkey for a lighter protein option.
- Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and Ritz crackers to make the dish celiac-friendly.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 49 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg