CHEEZY CHICKEN, BROCCOLI, RICE CASSEROLE

Cheezy Chicken, Broccoli, Rice Casserole image

Provided by Cassie *

Time 1h25m

Number Of Ingredients 15

3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite sized cubes
1 c uncooked, white rice
1 small can chicken broth
2 can(s) cream of chicken soup, or cream of chicken broccoli soup
1 - 1/2 c milk
2 bunch fresh broccoli cut into pieces ( par cooked a few minutes in boiling salted water , or 10 - 12 ounce bag frozen broccoli flourets, thawed
1 - 2 Tbsp minced, dried onion
2 1/2 c shredded, cheddar cheese
salt, pepper for chicken
1 sleeve ritz crackers, crushed
3 Tbsp butter, melted
paprika ( optional )
1 tsp garlic powder ( optional )
1 Tbsp dried parsley flakes
salt and pepper to taste, or whatever seasoning you want to add.

Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degree F. Spray a 9 x 13 baking pan with non stick cooking spray.
2. In a medium skillet with oil, brown chicken seasoned with salt and pepper. Does not have to be completely cooked. Will finish cooking in the oven.
3. In a large bowl add rice, soups, broth, 2 cups cheese, dried onions, 1 1/2 cup milk, seasonings such as salt and pepper, stir till blended. Now, add the chicken and broccoli. Pour into prepared baking pan. Sprinkle remaining cheese evenly over casserole.
4. In a small bowl; mix the crumbs, seasonings and butter well; set aside.
5. Cover casserole with foil and bake 40 - 45 minutes. Remove foil. Sprinkle crumbs atop the casserole. Continue baking till golden brown and bubbling. Check for rice tenderness. If still tough remain baking till tender. Check the center of casserole, as the edges bake sooner than the center.
6. Enjoy!