Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli

Is dinner stress keeping you up at night?

We get it. After a long day, the last thing you want is a complicated meal that leaves you with a sink full of dishes. In fact, a recent survey found that over 60% of home cooks find weeknight dinners to be the most challenging meal to plan and execute. If you’re nodding your head in agreement, then you’re in the right place! This Easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli is designed to be your new weeknight savior. It’s a comforting, flavorful, and incredibly straightforward dish that comes together with minimal fuss and delivers maximum satisfaction. Forget takeout menus; this recipe is about to become your go-to for a hearty, family-friendly meal that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat.

The Cast of Delicious Characters

This casserole is all about simple, accessible ingredients that blend harmoniously to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken Breasts (2 large, about 1.5 lbs): The protein powerhouse. Opt for boneless, skinless breasts for ease of preparation. They should be tender and juicy when cooked. Substitution: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will also work beautifully, offering a richer flavor.
• Cooked Ham (1.5 cups, diced): Adds a salty, savory depth. The cubes should be moist and slightly chewy. Substitution: Diced pre-cooked ham steak or even thick-cut bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled, can add a delightful smoky note.
• Cooked Rice (3 cups): The comforting base. Long-grain white rice or brown rice both work. The grains should be separate and fluffy. Substitution: Leftover rice is perfect here! You can also use jasmine or basmati rice for an aromatic twist.
• Broccoli Florets (3 cups, fresh or frozen): For a vibrant splash of green and a healthy dose of nutrients. The florets should be crisp-tender. Substitution: You can substitute with frozen broccoli, ensuring it’s thawed and excess water is drained. Other green vegetables like peas or green beans can also be used.
• Cream of Chicken Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): The creamy binder that ties everything together. Choose a good quality condensed soup for the best flavor. Substitution: For a dairy-free option, use a dairy-free cream of mushroom or chicken soup. You could also make a homemade béchamel sauce.
• Milk (1/2 cup): To thin the soup and create a luscious sauce. Whole milk provides richness, but any variety will do. Substitution: Evaporated milk will make the sauce extra creamy. Non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk can be used.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1.5 cups, divided): For that irresistible cheesy, gooey topping. Sharp cheddar offers the most robust flavor. Substitution: A blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar, Gruyère, or even a dairy-free shredded cheese will work.
• Onion (1/2 cup, finely chopped): Adds a sweet, aromatic foundation. The pieces should be small enough to distribute evenly. Substitution: Finely minced shallots or a tablespoon of onion powder can be used if fresh onion isn’t preferred.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): For a pungent, savory kick that elevates all other flavors. Substitution: 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder is a convenient alternative.
• Butter or Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): For sautéing. Substitution: Use your preferred cooking fat.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Essential for bringing out the best in every ingredient.

Timing is Everything

This casserole is built for speed and simplicity, making it perfect for busy evenings. The timing is significantly faster than many traditional casseroles because we’re using pre-cooked rice and often pre-cooked chicken (if you’re using rotisserie chicken).

Compared to the average casserole, which can take 60-90 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is a real time-saver!

Let’s Get Cooking!

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Casserole Dish

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This prevents sticking and ensures a beautiful, golden-brown crust.

Step 2: Cook the Rice (if not already cooked)

If you don’t have leftover cooked rice, prepare it now according to package directions. Fluff it with a fork once cooked. For this recipe, about 3 cups of cooked rice is ideal. If using brown rice, remember it generally takes longer to cook.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken and Ham

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter or heat the olive oil. If using raw chicken, dice it into bite-sized pieces and cook until no longer pink. If using pre-cooked chicken (like rotisserie), simply warm it through. Add the diced ham to the skillet and cook for a couple of minutes until lightly browned and slightly crisped. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, the sautéed chicken and ham mixture, the broccoli florets, the condensed cream of chicken soup, milk, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently until everything is well combined and evenly distributed. The mixture should be moist but not soupy.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden brown.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to serve.

Nutritional Snapshot

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

• Calories: 450-550 kcal
• Protein: 30-40g
• Fat: 20-30g
• Carbohydrates: 30-40g
• Fiber: 3-5g

Note: This is an estimate. Using low-fat options or leaner meats can adjust these figures.

Healthier Swaps for a Lighter Load

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

• Leaner Protein: Swap chicken thighs for chicken breast or use pre-cooked turkey breast.
• Whole Grains: Use cooked brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber.
• Reduced-Fat Dairy: Opt for low-fat milk and reduced-fat cream of chicken soup. Use a reduced-fat cheddar cheese.
• More Veggies: Bulk up the broccoli, or add other nutrient-dense vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach.
• Homemade Cream Sauce: Replace condensed soup with a homemade béchamel sauce made with whole wheat flour and skim milk, seasoned with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

What to Serve Alongside?

This casserole is a complete meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple additions to round out your dining experience:

• A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Steamed green beans or asparagus.
• Crusty bread for soaking up any extra sauce.
• A dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for a cool, tangy contrast.

Common Pitfalls and How to Sidestep Them

Even simple recipes can have a few snags. Here’s how to ensure your casserole is a triumph:

• Mushy Rice: Ensure your rice is cooked to al dente or slightly firm before adding it to the casserole. Overcooked rice will become mushy when baked.
• Dry Casserole: Don’t skimp on the cream of chicken soup and milk. These are crucial for moisture. If the mixture seems too dry, add a splash more milk.
• Burnt Top: Covering the casserole with foil for the initial baking period helps the inside heat through evenly. Remove the foil for the last 10-15 minutes to achieve a golden-brown cheese topping without burning.
• Under-Seasoning: Taste your mixture before baking, especially if using pre-cooked components. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Storing Your Leftover Treasure

Leftovers are a blessing! Store any remaining casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a low oven until heated through. For longer storage, you can freeze cooled portions of the casserole. It should keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Dinner Solved, Deliciously!

And there you have it – a delightful, comforting, and incredibly easy Chicken Ham and Rice Casserole with Broccoli that’s ready to grace your table. This recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a meal that’s both satisfying and loved by everyone. It’s proof that delicious, hearty dinners don’t need to be complicated. So, the next time you’re staring into the abyss of your refrigerator wondering what to make for dinner, remember this crowd-pleasing casserole. Give it a try, and let it become a staple in your recipe rotation!

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicken Ham Casserole with Broccoli and Rice

• Author: Chef Sara

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Description

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.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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

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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.

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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.