Easy Creamy Chicken Ham Rice Casserole

Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli: The Only Recipe You’ll Ever Need

If you’re a busy parent or anyone craving a hassle-free dinner that brings the family together, this Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli is your ultimate solution. Imagine a one-dish wonder that’s not only straightforward to prepare but also delivers an extra creamy texture that makes every bite irresistibly comforting. Drawing from Chef Lalyta’s expertise, this recipe combines tender chicken, savory ham, fluffy rice, and vibrant broccoli into a cohesive, hearty meal that can be on your table in under an hour. Whether you’re new to casseroles or a seasoned home cook, this Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli stands out for its simplicity and rich flavors, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners.

The aroma of this Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli wafting from the oven is nothing short of heavenly—think warm, cheesy notes mingling with the earthy freshness of broccoli and the subtle smokiness of ham. Each forkful offers a delightful contrast: the creamy sauce envelops perfectly cooked rice, while chunks of juicy chicken provide a satisfying bite. The extra creamy profile, thanks to the blend of cream of chicken soup and melted cheddar, creates a velvety base that’s both indulgent and nourishing, with the broccoli adding a crisp-tender crunch that balances the richness. This casserole isn’t just food; it’s a sensory experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why trust this version of Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli from lalytarecipes.com? Crafted by Chef Lalyta, it’s been meticulously tested for foolproof results, ensuring your kitchen triumphs every time. In this post, you’ll discover the “Chef’s Secret” for achieving that extra creamy consistency, along with detailed tips on ingredients, step-by-step guidance, and answers to common questions. By the end, you’ll feel empowered to customize and perfect this broccoli casserole recipe, making it a staple in your home cooking repertoire.

Why This Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli Recipe is a Game-Changer

The Chef’s Secret: What sets this Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli apart is its extra creamy factor, achieved by blending cream of chicken soup with milk and garlic powder for a luxurious, velvety sauce that coats every ingredient. This technique ensures the casserole remains moist and flavorful throughout baking, elevating it from a basic dish to a standout family favorite. By whisking the soup mixture thoroughly before combining, you create a seamless emulsion that prevents any dry spots, making this broccoli casserole recipe exceptionally cohesive and satisfying.

Unbeatable Texture: The science behind the texture lies in the combination of ingredients—the rice absorbs the creamy liquids while baking, resulting in a tender, fluffy base, while the broccoli retains a slight crunch for contrast. The cheddar cheese on top forms a golden, bubbly crust that locks in moisture, thanks to its high fat content, which melts evenly and creates that irresistible gooey layer.

Foolproof for a Reason: This recipe has been tested multiple times in real home kitchens, guaranteeing consistent results with minimal effort. Its straightforward steps and flexible ingredients make it reliable for beginners, ensuring your Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli turns out perfectly every time, without any surprises.

Ingredient Spotlight: Quality Makes the Difference

For the cooked rice, which serves as the hearty base of this Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli, choose high-quality, freshly cooked long-grain rice for its ability to absorb flavors without becoming mushy. This ingredient provides the comforting, filling foundation that binds everything together. Opt for rice that’s not overly sticky; if substituting, use quinoa for a nutritious twist, as it offers a similar texture but adds more protein and a nutty flavor.

Diced boneless chicken breast is essential for adding lean protein to this broccoli casserole recipe, offering a tender, juicy element that soaks up the extra creamy sauce. Quality matters here—select fresh, organic chicken to avoid any toughness; it ensures the meat remains succulent after baking. A great substitution is turkey breast, which provides a similar mild taste and texture, making it ideal for those wanting to vary the protein while keeping the casserole light.

Diced ham brings a smoky, savory depth to this Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli, enhancing the overall flavor profile with its cured richness. Using high-quality, low-sodium ham prevents the dish from becoming overly salty, allowing the natural tastes to shine. If you’re looking to substitute, try cooked bacon pieces for a crunchier alternative, but use them sparingly to maintain the balance of the extra creamy sauce.

Broccoli florets add a vibrant, nutritious crunch to this broccoli casserole recipe, providing essential vitamins and a fresh contrast to the creamy elements. Fresh broccoli is best for its crisp texture and bright color; always choose firm, green florets to ensure they don’t turn soggy. Substitutions like cauliflower can work well, offering a similar cruciferous bite while keeping the dish low-carb and versatile for dietary preferences.

The cream of chicken soup is the star behind the extra creamy consistency in this Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli, creating a rich, enveloping sauce that ties all ingredients together. Select a low-sodium version for better control over seasoning; it ensures the casserole isn’t overwhelming. For a healthier swap, use homemade cream soup or a mushroom-based alternative to add an earthy note while maintaining that luxurious creaminess.

Shredded cheddar cheese tops off this broccoli casserole recipe with a melty, golden finish that enhances the extra creamy angle. Freshly shredded cheese melts more evenly than pre-shredded varieties, avoiding additives that can make it clumpy. Substitute with mozzarella for a milder, stretchier texture, which pairs beautifully with the chicken and ham for a customizable twist.

Milk contributes to the creamy base, helping to thin the soup mixture without diluting flavors, making this Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli irresistibly smooth. Use whole milk for the richest results; it’s key for that extra creamy quality. Almond milk can be substituted for a dairy-free option, though it may slightly alter the texture, so adjust seasonings accordingly.

Garlic powder adds a subtle, aromatic punch that elevates the savory notes in this broccoli casserole recipe. Fresh, high-quality powder ensures potent flavor without bitterness; it’s what makes the dish stand out. If substituting, fresh minced garlic works wonderfully, infusing a bolder taste—just remember to sauté it briefly to avoid raw harshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden cheese top without overcooking the interior.

Pro Tip: Use an oven thermometer to verify the temperature accuracy, as variations can affect baking time and result in an unevenly cooked casserole.

Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add 2 cups of cooked rice, 1 pound of diced boneless chicken breast, 1 cup of diced ham, and 2 cups of broccoli florets. Gently toss them together to distribute evenly, ensuring the broccoli is fresh and cut into uniform sizes for consistent cooking.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t overmix at this stage, as it can make the rice mushy; stir just until combined to preserve texture.

Step 3: Prepare the Soup Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup, 1/2 cup of milk, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Blend until smooth, which helps create the extra creamy sauce that defines this Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli.

Pro Tip: Taste the mixture before adding it to the other ingredients to adjust seasoning, ensuring the flavors are balanced from the start.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

Pour the soup mixture over the rice and meat mixture in the large bowl, then stir thoroughly until all components are well coated. This step ensures every bite is infused with that creamy goodness.

Common Mistake to Avoid: If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash more milk, but don’t overdo it, or the casserole could become watery during baking.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and transfer the combined mixture into it, spreading it evenly with a spatula for uniform cooking.

Pro Tip: Use a non-stick spray or butter for greasing to prevent sticking, which makes serving this Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli effortless.

Step 6: Add the Cheese Topping

Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mixture in the baking dish, creating a delicious, melty layer.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Avoid piling the cheese in one area; distribute it evenly to ensure the entire casserole gets that extra creamy, cheesy crust.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown. This step locks in the flavors of your Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli.

Pro Tip: Check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out hot, indicating everything is fully cooked.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving, allowing the extra creamy filling to set slightly for easier portioning.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Rushing this step can lead to a runny casserole, so patience ensures the best texture and presentation.

Serving & Presentation

For an impressive presentation of your Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli, serve it in individual portions on colorful plates, garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of green that complements the broccoli’s vibrancy. The extra creamy sauce makes it visually appealing with its golden cheese topping, so slice neatly to showcase the layers. Pair this comforting main course with light sides like a crisp garden salad to balance the richness, or steamed green beans for added crunch. For a heartier meal, roasted carrots or garlic bread can enhance the flavors, making this broccoli casserole recipe a versatile centerpiece.

Make-Ahead & Storage Solutions

Make-Ahead Strategy: To prepare this Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli up to 3 days in advance, assemble the mixture without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, add 10 minutes to the baking time as noted in the recipe notes. This extra creamy casserole maintains its texture best if you let it come to room temperature for 15 minutes before baking.

Storing Leftovers: Store any remaining casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. The extra creamy sauce helps preserve moisture, but avoid over-stacking to prevent sogginess.

The Best Way to Reheat: For optimal results, reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes to restore the original bubbly texture. Add a splash of milk if it seems dry, ensuring your Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli tastes just as fresh as when it was first made.

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Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli

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• Author: Chef Lalyta
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

A simple and comforting casserole combining chicken, ham, rice, and broccoli for a hearty family meal.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 pound boneless chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup diced ham
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, diced chicken, diced ham, and broccoli florets.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the soup mixture over the rice and meat mixture, stirring until everything is well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread evenly.
6. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
8. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated; just add 10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold. For a crispier top, broil for the last 2 minutes.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Method: Main Course
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 28g