Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Casserole

This one-pot wonder combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and fresh broccoli all wrapped in a blanket of melty cheese. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone at the table do that happy food wiggle.

What makes this casserole extra special is how the rice soaks up all those amazing flavors while it cooks right alongside the chicken. And that golden-brown cheesy crust on top? Pure magic. The best part? It’s ready in just 30 minutes, which makes it perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something cozy but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts, cut into small cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ¾ cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth, low sodium
• 1 can (10 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ teaspoon each salt and black pepper

Steps

1. Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and onion, cooking for 5 minutes until chicken is no longer pink. Add garlic, salt, and pepper, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Stir in rice, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add broccoli florets and half the cheese, cooking for 2 more minutes until broccoli brightens in color.
4. Top with remaining cheese and broil for 2-3 minutes until cheese gets golden and bubbly.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Smart Swaps

• Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice (reduces carbs by 30g per serving)
• Swap cream of chicken soup for Greek yogurt mixed with chicken broth (1 cup yogurt + ½ cup broth)
• Try mozzarella for a milder cheese option

Make It Diabetes-Friendly

• Replace white rice with ½ cup quinoa (reduces net carbs by 15g per serving)
• Use low-fat cheese to reduce saturated fat while maintaining protein
• Add extra broccoli (up to 3 cups) to increase fiber and reduce overall carb impact
• Portion into 1-cup servings (approximately 25g net carbs per serving)
• Pair with a side salad dressed with olive oil to slow glucose absorption

Pro Tips

• Cut chicken into equal-sized pieces for even cooking
• Don’t skip browning the chicken – it adds crucial flavor
• Let casserole rest 5 minutes before serving to set properly
• Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 3 days