Broccoli Rice Cheese and Chicken Casserole

1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed: Adds a crunchy, buttery topping.

2 Tablespoons melted butter: Helps the crackers brown and adds flavor.

Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

If using raw chicken, cut it into bite-sized pieces and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Heat the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside. Skip this step if using cooked rotisserie chicken.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

In the same pot, add chicken broth, olive oil, and rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.

Cover and cook for 7 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Broccoli

Add the fresh broccoli florets to the pot, cover again, and cook for another 8 minutes. Avoid stirring to prevent the rice from becoming mushy.

Step 5: Rest the Rice

Turn off the heat and let the pot sit, covered, for 10 minutes. This allows any rice stuck to the bottom to release without stirring, ensuring it stays fluffy.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked chicken (or rotisserie chicken), condensed cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, optional seasonings, and half of the cheddar cheese to the pot. Mix until well combined.

Step 7: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.

Step 8: Prepare the Topping

Combine the crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the casserole.

Step 9: Bake

Cover the casserole with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.

Uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the topping is golden brown.

Step 10: Serve

Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the rich, creamy flavors with a hint of crunch from the topping.

Variations and Substitutions
This versatile casserole can be tailored to suit various preferences and dietary needs:

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and substitute the Ritz crackers with a gluten-free alternative.

Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.

Low-Carb: Substitute the rice with cauliflower rice. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

Extra Veggies: Add more vegetables such as carrots, peas, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.

Conclusion
The Broccoli Rice Cheese and Chicken Casserole is more than just a dish; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. The blend of flavors and textures makes it a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish to bring to a potluck, this casserole is sure to impress. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a balanced meal that includes protein, vegetables, and grains all in one delicious package. For a taste of home and a meal that brings people together, this casserole is an excellent choice. Enjoy making and sharing it with your loved ones.