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Home / Dinner / Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli

Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli

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Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli

Craving a Quick & Hearty Dinner?

Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen after a long day, only to end up with a meal that doesn’t quite hit the spot? On average, weeknight dinners can take over 45 minutes to prepare, and many families struggle to find dishes that are both quick and satisfying. If you’re nodding along, then this Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli is your new weeknight hero! This recipe is designed for busy households, offering a delicious and comforting meal that comes together with minimal fuss. We’re talking about a true crowd-pleaser, packed with savory chicken, salty ham, fluffy rice, and vibrant broccoli, all baked into a creamy, dreamy casserole. Get ready for a dinner that’s as easy on you as it is delightful for everyone at the table.

The Star Ingredients

The magic of this casserole lies in its simple yet flavorful components. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that comforting, layered taste and texture we all love.

  • Cooked Chicken: About 2 cups, shredded or diced. This is our lean protein base.

    • *Substitution:* Leftover rotisserie chicken is a game-changer for convenience! You can also use cubed turkey or even firm tofu for a vegetarian twist.
  • Diced Ham: 1 cup, cooked. Adds a salty, savory punch and a delightful chewiness.

    • *Substitution:* Diced cooked bacon, prosciutto, or even smoked sausage can offer a similar porky depth. For a lighter option, consider finely diced extra-firm smoked tofu.
  • Cooked Rice: 3 cups, any kind. The comforting foundation of our casserole.

    • *Substitution:* Leftover white, brown, or even quinoa works beautifully. Ensure it’s cooked and cooled for best results. The slightly nutty flavor of brown rice adds a nice dimension.
  • Broccoli Florets: 2 cups, fresh or frozen. Adds a pop of color, texture, and essential nutrients.

    • *Substitution:* Cauliflower, peas, green beans, or a mix of frozen vegetables are excellent choices. If using larger florets, consider cutting them smaller to ensure they cook through evenly.
  • Cream of Mushroom Soup (or Chicken/Celery): 1 can (10.5 oz). This is our creamy binder, infusing richness and flavor.

    • *Substitution:* For a healthier option, a homemade béchamel sauce (with milk, flour, and butter) or a blend of Greek yogurt and chicken broth can be used. Low-sodium versions are recommended.
  • Milk: 1/2 cup. Helps to thin the soup and create a smoother sauce.

    • *Substitution:* Almond milk, soy milk, or even vegetable broth can be used.
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, divided. For that irresistible cheesy topping.

    • *Substitution:* Monterey Jack, Colby, Swiss, or a blend of your favorite melting cheeses. Nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free cheesy flavor.
  • Seasonings: Salt and black pepper to taste, a pinch of garlic powder, and onion powder for extra oomph.

    • *Enhancement:* A dash of paprika or a sprinkle of dried parsley can add visual appeal and subtle flavor notes.

Perfect Timing: Prep, Cook & Enjoy

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 40-45 minutes

Compared to the average 45+ minutes for weeknight dinners, this casserole is a real time-saver. The bulk of the prep involves combining pre-cooked ingredients, making it achievable even on your busiest evenings. The baking time is just enough to meld the flavors and achieve a golden, bubbly topping.

Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli
A warm and inviting dish of chicken, ham, rice, and broccoli casserole.

Let’s Get Cooking! Easy Steps

This recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimum effort. Here’s how to bring this delicious casserole to life:

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This ensures your delectable creation won’t stick.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

If you haven’t already, ensure your chicken is cooked and shredded or diced. You can quickly pan-fry diced chicken breasts, boil them, or use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for ultimate ease.

Step 3: Sauté Ham and Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, you can optionally give your diced ham a quick sauté for a minute or two to render any excess fat and enhance its flavor. If using, add a teaspoon of olive oil and sauté minced garlic and onion powder for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This step is optional if you’re pressed for time, but it adds another layer of deliciousness.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, diced ham, cooked rice, and broccoli florets. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Pour this creamy mixture over the chicken and rice mixture. Add half of the shredded cheddar cheese and your seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder). Gently stir everything together until all ingredients are well coated. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Remember, ham can be salty, so season cautiously!

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Spoon the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil (this prevents the cheese from browning too quickly). Bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through, bubbly, and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.

Nutritional Snapshot

While exact nutritional values can vary based on ingredients used, a typical serving of this Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli provides approximately:

  • Calories: 350-450 kcal
  • Protein: 25-35g
  • Carbohydrates: 30-40g
  • Fat: 15-25g
  • Fiber: 3-5g

This dish offers a good balance of macronutrients, making it a satisfying and relatively complete meal. The broccoli contributes valuable vitamins and fiber.

Healthier Swaps for Lighter Bites

Looking to lighten up this comforting classic without sacrificing flavor? Try these simple modifications:

  • Leaner Protein: Opt for chicken breast or thigh meat with skin removed, or even lean turkey breast.
  • Reduced Sodium: Choose low-sodium canned soups and ham. You can also make your own “cream of” soup base using low-fat milk or broth.
  • Whole Grains: Use cooked brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for added fiber and nutrients.
  • Extra Veggies: Boost the vegetable content by adding more broccoli, cauliflower, peas, or even finely chopped carrots.
  • Lighter Binder: Replace some or all of the cream of mushroom soup with a mixture of Greek yogurt and a splash of milk or chicken broth, seasoned well.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad tossed with your favorite vinaigrette. A side of steamed green beans or a simple crusty bread for soaking up any extra sauce also makes for a delightful accompaniment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

  • Over-seasoning: Ham is naturally salty, so taste your mixture before adding too much salt.
  • Undercooked Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, cut florets into bite-sized pieces so they cook through in the oven. Frozen broccoli can be added directly, but it might release more liquid.
  • Dry Casserole: Ensure you have enough creamy soup and milk to bind all the ingredients. If your mixture seems too dry, add a splash more milk or broth.
  • Skipping the Foil: Covering the casserole initially helps it heat through evenly without the cheese burning.

Storing Your Casserole

Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Enjoy Your Delicious Casserole!

This Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli is proof that a delicious, satisfying family meal doesn’t need to be complicated or time-consuming. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. So next time you’re wondering what to make for dinner, remember this flavorful, comforting, and incredibly easy casserole. We hope you and your family love it as much as we do! Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of chicken is best for this casserole?

Any cooked chicken works well! Leftover rotisserie chicken is incredibly convenient and adds great flavor. You can also cook and shred chicken breasts or thighs specifically for this recipe.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge, or let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.

How can I make this casserole creamier?

To make it extra creamy, you can add a touch more milk or consider using a full can of cream of chicken or cream of celery soup. Some people also like to stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese with the soup mixture.

My casserole seems a bit dry, what did I do wrong?

This usually happens if there isn’t enough liquid binder. Ensure you’re using the full can of soup and the specified amount of milk. If your rice is particularly dry, it might absorb more liquid. For future batches, make sure your rice isn’t overly dry, or add an extra tablespoon or two of milk.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can! Assemble the casserole (unbaked or baked and cooled), cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. If baking from frozen, allow for a significantly longer baking time (possibly an hour or more) at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If reheating a baked casserole, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight first.

Print

Chicken Ham Casserole with Broccoli and Rice

Print Recipe

This creamy, cheesy casserole is a comforting dish perfect for family dinners. It combines tender chicken ham, broccoli, rice, and a crunchy Ritz cracker topping for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

  • Author: Chef Samantha

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoonsunsalted butter½ cupyellow onion, finely diced1 tablespoonolive oil2 ½ cupslow-sodium chicken broth1 ¼ cupswhite long-grain rice, uncooked2 cupscooked chicken ham, diced2 cupsbroccoli florets10.75 ozcream of chicken soup½ cupsour cream¾ cupmilk2 ½ cupsshredded cheddar cheese, dividedSalt and pepper, optional
  • ½ cupyellow onion, finely diced1 tablespoonolive oil2 ½ cupslow-sodium chicken broth1 ¼ cupswhite long-grain rice, uncooked2 cupscooked chicken ham, diced2 cupsbroccoli florets10.75 ozcream of chicken soup½ cupsour cream¾ cupmilk2 ½ cupsshredded cheddar cheese, dividedSalt and pepper, optional
  • 1 tablespoonolive oil2 ½ cupslow-sodium chicken broth1 ¼ cupswhite long-grain rice, uncooked2 cupscooked chicken ham, diced2 cupsbroccoli florets10.75 ozcream of chicken soup½ cupsour cream¾ cupmilk2 ½ cupsshredded cheddar cheese, dividedSalt and pepper, optional
  • 2 ½ cupslow-sodium chicken broth1 ¼ cupswhite long-grain rice, uncooked2 cupscooked chicken ham, diced2 cupsbroccoli florets10.75 ozcream of chicken soup½ cupsour cream¾ cupmilk2 ½ cupsshredded cheddar cheese, dividedSalt and pepper, optional
  • 1 ¼ cupswhite long-grain rice, uncooked2 cupscooked chicken ham, diced2 cupsbroccoli florets10.75 ozcream of chicken soup½ cupsour cream¾ cupmilk2 ½ cupsshredded cheddar cheese, dividedSalt and pepper, optional
  • 2 cupscooked chicken ham, diced2 cupsbroccoli florets10.75 ozcream of chicken soup½ cupsour cream¾ cupmilk2 ½ cupsshredded cheddar cheese, dividedSalt and pepper, optional
  • 2 cupsbroccoli florets10.75 ozcream of chicken soup½ cupsour cream¾ cupmilk2 ½ cupsshredded cheddar cheese, dividedSalt and pepper, optional
  • 10.75 ozcream of chicken soup½ cupsour cream¾ cupmilk2 ½ cupsshredded cheddar cheese, dividedSalt and pepper, optional
  • ½ cupsour cream¾ cupmilk2 ½ cupsshredded cheddar cheese, dividedSalt and pepper, optional
  • ¾ cupmilk2 ½ cupsshredded cheddar cheese, dividedSalt and pepper, optional
  • 2 ½ cupsshredded cheddar cheese, dividedSalt and pepper, optional
  • Salt and pepper, optional
  • 1 cupRitz crackers, crushed into crumbs2 tablespoonsbutter, melted
  • 2 tablespoonsbutter, melted

Instructions

  1. 1️⃣Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.2️⃣Sauté onions: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook for 5 minutes until softened.3️⃣Cook the rice: Add the chicken broth, olive oil, and rice to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover tightly and cook for 8 minutes.4️⃣Steam the broccoli: Add the broccoli to the saucepan without stirring, cover again, and cook for an additional 7 minutes. If liquid remains in the pot and rice isn’t fully cooked, simmer for up to 5 more minutes.5️⃣Rest the rice: Remove from heat and let the pot sit, covered, for 10 minutes. This will allow any remaining liquid to absorb and loosen rice from the bottom.6️⃣Combine casserole ingredients: Stir in the diced chicken ham, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.7️⃣Assemble the casserole: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.8️⃣Bake the casserole: Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.9️⃣Prepare the topping: Combine the Ritz cracker crumbs with melted butter.🔟Add the topping: Remove the foil from the casserole, sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown.1️⃣1️⃣Let it rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 5 minutes before serving.
  2. 2️⃣Sauté onions: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook for 5 minutes until softened.3️⃣Cook the rice: Add the chicken broth, olive oil, and rice to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover tightly and cook for 8 minutes.4️⃣Steam the broccoli: Add the broccoli to the saucepan without stirring, cover again, and cook for an additional 7 minutes. If liquid remains in the pot and rice isn’t fully cooked, simmer for up to 5 more minutes.5️⃣Rest the rice: Remove from heat and let the pot sit, covered, for 10 minutes. This will allow any remaining liquid to absorb and loosen rice from the bottom.6️⃣Combine casserole ingredients: Stir in the diced chicken ham, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.7️⃣Assemble the casserole: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.8️⃣Bake the casserole: Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.9️⃣Prepare the topping: Combine the Ritz cracker crumbs with melted butter.🔟Add the topping: Remove the foil from the casserole, sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown.1️⃣1️⃣Let it rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 5 minutes before serving.
  3. 3️⃣Cook the rice: Add the chicken broth, olive oil, and rice to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover tightly and cook for 8 minutes.
  4. 4️⃣Steam the broccoli: Add the broccoli to the saucepan without stirring, cover again, and cook for an additional 7 minutes. If liquid remains in the pot and rice isn’t fully cooked, simmer for up to 5 more minutes.5️⃣Rest the rice: Remove from heat and let the pot sit, covered, for 10 minutes. This will allow any remaining liquid to absorb and loosen rice from the bottom.6️⃣Combine casserole ingredients: Stir in the diced chicken ham, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.7️⃣Assemble the casserole: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.8️⃣Bake the casserole: Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.9️⃣Prepare the topping: Combine the Ritz cracker crumbs with melted butter.🔟Add the topping: Remove the foil from the casserole, sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown.1️⃣1️⃣Let it rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 5 minutes before serving.
  5. 5️⃣Rest the rice: Remove from heat and let the pot sit, covered, for 10 minutes. This will allow any remaining liquid to absorb and loosen rice from the bottom.6️⃣Combine casserole ingredients: Stir in the diced chicken ham, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.7️⃣Assemble the casserole: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.8️⃣Bake the casserole: Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.9️⃣Prepare the topping: Combine the Ritz cracker crumbs with melted butter.🔟Add the topping: Remove the foil from the casserole, sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown.1️⃣1️⃣Let it rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 5 minutes before serving.
  6. 6️⃣Combine casserole ingredients: Stir in the diced chicken ham, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
  7. 7️⃣Assemble the casserole: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.8️⃣Bake the casserole: Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.9️⃣Prepare the topping: Combine the Ritz cracker crumbs with melted butter.🔟Add the topping: Remove the foil from the casserole, sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown.1️⃣1️⃣Let it rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 5 minutes before serving.
  8. 8️⃣Bake the casserole: Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.9️⃣Prepare the topping: Combine the Ritz cracker crumbs with melted butter.🔟Add the topping: Remove the foil from the casserole, sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown.1️⃣1️⃣Let it rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 5 minutes before serving.
  9. 9️⃣Prepare the topping: Combine the Ritz cracker crumbs with melted butter.
  10. 🔟Add the topping: Remove the foil from the casserole, sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown.1️⃣1️⃣Let it rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 5 minutes before serving.
  11. 1️⃣1️⃣Let it rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Chicken ham substitute: If you prefer, use diced cooked chicken instead of chicken ham.Make-ahead option: Assemble the casserole (without the cracker topping) a day in advance. Add the topping right before baking.Cheese alternatives: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a different flavor.Veggie boost: Add diced carrots or peas for more vegetables.
Make-ahead option: Assemble the casserole (without the cracker topping) a day in advance. Add the topping right before baking.Cheese alternatives: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a different flavor.Veggie boost: Add diced carrots or peas for more vegetables.
Cheese alternatives: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a different flavor.Veggie boost: Add diced carrots or peas for more vegetables.
Veggie boost: Add diced carrots or peas for more vegetables.

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Samantha – My Kitchen Storie Recipes

I am a food enthusiast living in Northeastern Ohio. Having lived in several states, before landing in Ohio, I have experienced many different food cultures. My belief is that food nourishes our bodies, hearts and minds. Food brings people together, there is nothing better than enjoying a good meal with family and friends. That being said, I have stacks of recipes from over the decades in 3-ring binders, old cookbooks and digital recipes on my computer. My original thought was to catalog all of them on my computer and get rid of the binders and such. My next thought was to share them. If they are on this website, they were worth sharing I hope you enjoy them as much as we do! (I will try my best to credit the original creator/author of the recipe if I can).

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