Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole

Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole garnished with herbs

Why Make This Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole

If you’re searching for a cozy, comforting meal that the whole family will love, look no further than this Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole. This dish is a delightful blend of savory chicken, tender broccoli, and creamy cheese, all baked together to create a bubbly, golden topping. Not only does it pack a flavorful punch, but it also combines protein and veggies for a balanced meal in one dish. Plus, it makes for excellent leftovers, keeping its deliciousness intact. Ideal for busy weeknights or a hearty weekend dinner, this casserole is sure to become a go-to recipe in your home.

How to Make Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole

Making Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole is incredibly straightforward, even for beginner cooks. This dish comes together in a few easy steps, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying it with your loved ones. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, this casserole brings deliciousness to the table without requiring extensive culinary skills.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
  • 3 cups cooked white rice
  • 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or thawed from frozen)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. Fold in the cooked rice, shredded chicken, and broccoli until well combined.
  4. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
  5. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  6. Top with the remaining cheese.
  7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  8. Uncover and bake for another 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  9. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  10. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole contains approximately:

  • Calories: 400
  • Total Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 25g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and cooking methods.

How to Serve Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole

This casserole is a meal in itself, but you can elevate your serving by adding a simple side salad or a fresh fruit platter. For a more interactive dining experience, serve it with warm breadsticks or garlic bread. Pair it with a glass of chilled lemonade or a light white wine to complement the rich flavors of the dish. This casserole is also perfect for potlucks; just prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven before serving.

How to Store Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole

To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Expert Tips for Perfect Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole

  • Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker preparation, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It adds flavor and saves time.
  • Choose Fresh or Frozen Broccoli: Both options work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to drain any excess water if using frozen broccoli.
  • Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes to avoid over-browning. If the top becomes too dark, simply cover it with foil until it’s done.
  • Customize the Cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra flavor.

Delicious Variations

  1. Vegetable Lovers: Add in other vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or corn to amp up the nutritional content.
  2. Spicy Kick: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
  3. Herbed Version: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor profile.
  4. Gluten-Free: Substitute cream of chicken soup with a gluten-free version or make your own from scratch.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use brown rice instead of white?
    Yes, brown rice can be substituted, but you may need to adjust the cooking time, as it takes longer to cook than white rice.

  • Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
    Absolutely! Just ensure it’s completely cooled before freezing. Wrap it tightly or use an airtight container.

  • Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
    Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, store it covered in the fridge, and bake it just before serving.

Conclusion

Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole is not only an easy and satisfying meal but also a crowd-pleaser that is perfect for any occasion. Its creamy, cheesy goodness is a comforting hug in a dish. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll understand why it should have a place in your kitchen! Don’t forget to share your experience with friends and family; they might just want the recipe for themselves! Happy cooking!

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