There’s a certain nostalgia that comes with the aroma of a homemade casserole wafting through the kitchen, instantly putting me at ease after a long day. Inspired by Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole, this dish is everything a comfort meal should be—warm, hearty, and utterly satisfying. Picture tender chicken combined with vibrant broccoli, sweet carrots, and creamy cheese all nestled atop a fluffy rice bed.
I discovered this recipe during a time when I craved something more than just another round of takeout. It effortlessly transforms simple ingredients into a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Plus, it’s so flexible! You can easily swap in whatever veggies you have on hand, making it just as versatile as it is delicious. If you’re looking to revive your weeknight dinners and steer clear of fast food, this Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is your new go-to. Let’s dive into the recipe together!
Why is Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole a Must-Try?
Comforting and reminiscent of childhood meals, this casserole is a warm hug on a plate.
Flavor-packed with creamy cheese and fresh veggies, it elevates simple ingredients into a hearty dish.
Crowd-pleaser for family dinners, it’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Flexible enough to adapt with your favorite seasonal veggies, making it a versatile weeknight staple.
Quick and easy, it combines simple preparation with a bake time of less than an hour, perfect for busy evenings.
Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole Ingredients
• Discover the delightful elements that make this casserole a hit in every home.
For the Rice Base
- Brown Minute Rice – A quick-cooking option that gives a nutty flavor while serving as the perfect base.
For the Vegetables
- Chopped Broccoli Florets – Adds a pop of color and essential nutrients to your casserole.
- Yellow Onion, finely diced – Infuses the dish with a savory aroma that elevates the flavor profile.
- Diced Carrots – Sweetness and vibrant color are yours with these tender bites.
- Frozen Green Peas – No need to thaw; these are a convenient way to boost fiber and greens.
For the Creamy Sauce
- Chicken Broth – The heart of your sauce, providing depth and richness to the dish.
- 2% Milk – Creates a creamy texture without being overly heavy.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (8 ounces, divided) – This brings a melty cheese goodness throughout your casserole; save some for the topping!
- Garlic Powder – Just a touch adds that comforting garlic aroma that everyone loves.
- Salt – Enhances all the flavors; adjust to your taste.
- Ground Pepper – A pinch of warmth and a subtle kick to your creamy base.
For the Chicken
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast (1 1/2 pounds) – Tender chicken pieces provide protein and heartiness that everyone will appreciate.
For the Topping
- Shredded Parmesan Cheese (1 ounce) – A sprinkle for an extra layer of delicious cheesy flavor that gets golden when baked.
This Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole is brimming with wholesome ingredients that transform into a comfort dish infused with love and flavor, perfect for cozy nights at home!
How to Make Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole
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Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly coat a large ceramic casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. This ensures your delicious creation won’t stick, making cleanup a breeze!
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Layer the bottom of the casserole dish with brown Minute Rice, followed by the broccoli florets, diced yellow onion, diced carrots, and frozen green peas. It creates a colorful foundation full of flavor!
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Combine chicken broth and 2% milk in a small saucepan. Warm over medium heat, then lower to low heat, stirring in 6 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until melted into a smooth, creamy sauce.
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Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the layered rice and vegetables in the casserole dish. Toss gently to combine, ensuring every piece is coated in cheesy goodness!
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Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces and spread them evenly over the rice and veggie mixture. Aim to cover as much as possible with the creamy sauce.
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Bake the casserole uncovered for 30 minutes. After that, sprinkle the remaining 2 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 ounce of shredded parmesan cheese on top. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole is perfect for meal prep, making weeknight dinners a breeze! You can chop the vegetables and mix the rice with the frozen peas up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Additionally, the cheese sauce can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 3 days; ensure it cools before sealing it tightly. When you’re ready to bake, just arrange the layers in the casserole dish, pour over the refrigerated cheese sauce, and add the chopped chicken. Bake as directed for a comforting, homemade dinner that’s just as delicious as when made fresh!
Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole Variations
Feel free to explore and make this casserole your own with these delightful twists and substitutions!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute almond or oat milk for a creamy, dairy-free version, and use dairy-free cheese for the topping.
- Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with hearty mushrooms or chickpeas for protein and extra flavor without the meat.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to bring some heat to your creamy sauce.
- Nutty Flavor: Stir in a handful of toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds before baking for a delightful crunchy texture.
- Herbaceous Twist: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be added to the sauce or layered with the veggies for a fragrant touch.
- Spinach Boost: Toss in fresh or frozen spinach along with the other vegetables for added nutrients and a pop of color.
- Creamy Mushroom Sauce: Instead of cheese sauce, use a creamy mushroom soup base for an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with chicken.
- Quinoa Base: Swap out the rice for cooked quinoa for a protein-packed, gluten-free alternative that adds a delightful nuttiness.
Each variation offers a unique spin, ensuring you’ll never get bored with this comforting classic!
Expert Tips for Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole
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Prep Efficiently: Have all ingredients washed, chopped, and measured before starting. This streamlines your cooking process and reduces stress.
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Don’t Overcook Veggies: Pre-cook your broccoli and carrots briefly, if desired, to ensure they don’t become mushy during baking. They should be tender but still vibrant.
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Layer with Care: When layering the casserole, ensure that rice and veggies are spread evenly. This helps minimize uneven cooking and maximizes flavor throughout the dish.
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Cheese Choice: Opt for fresh cheese for melting. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the creaminess of your sauce.
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Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier.
By following these tips, you’ll create the perfect version of Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole that your family will love!
How to Store and Freeze Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it will keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
Serving Freshness: If you’ve baked it, reheat leftovers in the microwave in short intervals, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry, ensuring the flavors of the Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole shine again!
What to Serve with Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole?
Creating a delightful meal around this comforting casserole opens the door to endless flavor combinations and textures.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery aroma of garlic bread pairs perfectly, inviting everyone to dig in. Its crunchy exterior complements the creamy casserole beautifully.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole. The salad adds brightness to your plate.
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Steamed Green Beans: Bright and vibrant, these tender green beans not only add color but also a crisp bite that balances the hearty dish. Toss with a squeeze of lemon for zest!
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness and caramelized edges bring out another layer of flavors while enhancing the comforting profile of the meal. Plus, they’re packed with nutrients!
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Fruit Salad: A light, colorful mix of fresh fruits cleanses the palate and adds a refreshing finish to your dinner. It’s a sweet touch that everyone can appreciate!
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Sparkling Water with Lime: Refreshing, bubbly, and just the right hint of citrus, this drink elevates your meal and pairs nicely with the casserole’s flavors.
Each side works harmoniously, ensuring that Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole takes center stage while the accompaniments enhance every bite.
Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of broccoli should I use for the casserole?
Absolutely! Using fresh broccoli florets will give you the best flavor and texture. Look for bright green florets without any dark spots or wilting. If fresh isn’t available, frozen broccoli florets are a great substitute—just toss them in while still frozen.
How should I store leftover Chicken and Broccoli Casserole?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. It’s best to allow the casserole to cool completely before sealing it up, which helps retain its delicious freshness.
Can I freeze Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole! I often do this for quick meals later. To freeze, wrap the uncooked casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as instructed.
What should I do if my casserole comes out too dry?
If your casserole turns out dry, don’t worry! For next time, try adding a little extra chicken broth or milk to the cheese sauce before pouring it over the other ingredients. If this happens after baking, you can add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to bring back moisture.
Is this casserole suitable for people with dairy allergies?
If you have someone with dairy allergies, you can definitely adapt this recipe! Substitute regular milk and cheese with your favorite non-dairy alternatives like almond milk or coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese for the topping. This way, everyone can enjoy Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole without worry!
Ina Garten's Chicken Casserole Packed with Flavor and Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly coat a large ceramic casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Layer the bottom of the casserole dish with brown Minute Rice, followed by the broccoli florets, diced yellow onion, diced carrots, and frozen green peas.
- Combine chicken broth and 2% milk in a small saucepan. Warm over medium heat, then lower to low heat, stirring in 6 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the layered rice and vegetables in the casserole dish.
- Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces and spread them evenly over the rice and veggie mixture.
- Bake the casserole uncovered for 30 minutes. After that, sprinkle the remaining 2 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 ounce of shredded parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until golden and bubbly.