Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole
Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, fluffy rice, and melty cheese. This hearty casserole makes a great meal for families and is perfect for weeknight dinners. The blend of flavors and textures creates a cozy meal that everyone will enjoy.
Why Make This Recipe
This casserole is not only delicious but also easy to make. It uses simple ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies for those who may be a bit picky. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, it promises to be a hit at your dinner table.
How to Make Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, blanched if fresh)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup milk
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: ½ cup breadcrumbs for topping
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix It Up: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, rice, broccoli, 1½ cups of cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Assemble: Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese and breadcrumbs if you like a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly with golden cheese on top.
- Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving. It goes well with a side salad or can be enjoyed on its own.
How to Serve Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole
Serve this casserole warm right out of the oven. It’s great as a main dish, and you can pair it with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. This dish is perfect for leftovers and can be enjoyed for lunch the next day.
How to Store Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole
- Use leftover chicken or store-bought rotisserie chicken for quick prep.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition.
- To make it lighter, you can use low-fat cheese and a low-fat cream of chicken soup.
- If you like a bit more spice, add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the mix.
Variation
You can switch up the cheese if you prefer. Monterey Jack or a blend of Italian cheeses can add different flavors to the casserole. You might also try swapping out the broccoli for other vegetables like spinach or cauliflower.
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice works well in this recipe and adds more fiber.
2. What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
You can substitute it with a homemade white sauce or another type of condensed soup, like cream of mushroom.
3. How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when it is hot and bubbly, and the cheese on top is golden brown.
Enjoy making and savoring this Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole! It’s a simple yet delightful dish that brings comfort to any meal.
Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced) Use leftover or rotisserie chicken for quick prep.
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown) Brown rice can be used for added fiber.
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, blanched if fresh) Feel free to substitute with other vegetables like carrots or peas.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Divided: 1½ cups for the mixture, ½ cup for topping.
- 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup Can substitute with a white sauce or another condensed soup.
- ½ cup milk
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup breadcrumbs Optional for topping.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, rice, broccoli, 1½ cups of cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
Baking
- Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese and breadcrumbs if desired.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly with golden cheese on top.
Serving
- Let it cool slightly before serving. It pairs well with a side salad or can be enjoyed on its own.
