ADVERTISEMENT

BROCCOLI, RICE, CHEESE, AND CHICKEN CASSEROLE

BROCCOLI, RICE, CHEESE, AND CHICKEN CASSEROLE

by

ADVERTISEMENT

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a light coating of butter.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken, Rice, and Broccoli

  1. If you haven’t done so already, cook the rice according to package instructions. You’ll need about 1 cup of cooked rice for this recipe.
  2. Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until they are tender but still bright green. This can be done by steaming them on the stovetop or blanching them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes.
  3. Shred or cube your cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works well for quick prep). You’ll need about 2 cups of chicken for the casserole.

Step 3: Make the Casserole Mixture

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until smooth and well-combined.
  2. Add the cooked rice, chicken, and broccoli to the mixture. Stir until all ingredients are well-coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

  1. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
  2. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it on top as well.
  3. For a crispy topping, you can add a layer of breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the cheese. This adds a wonderful crunch to the casserole.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
  2. If you like your topping extra crispy, you can broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes, but be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice it into squares and serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, if desired.

Tips for the Best Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

  1. Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker prep, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s already cooked and adds great flavor to the dish.
  2. Choose Your Cheese: While cheddar is classic, you can use any type of cheese you like. Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a cheese blend work wonderfully too.
  3. Make It Lighter: To lighten up the casserole, you can swap the cream of chicken soup for a low-fat or light version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and opt for a lower-fat cheese.
  4. Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to add more veggies to the casserole. Mushrooms, peas, or carrots are great additions that complement the flavors well.
  5. Add a Crunchy Topping: If you love a crispy topping, consider adding crushed crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even French fried onions for an extra crunch.
  6. Spice It Up: For a little kick, add some red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or even jalapeños to the casserole mixture.

Serving Suggestions

  • With a Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the casserole.
  • With Garlic Bread: Pair this casserole with a warm, crispy piece of garlic bread for an extra comforting meal.
  • For Leftovers: This casserole makes great leftovers! Serve it with a simple vegetable side like steamed green beans or a roasted veggie medley.

Storage and Reheating

  • Storing Leftovers: Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze.
  • Reheating: To reheat, bake the casserole at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating individual servings, you can microwave them for 1-2 minutes, depending on your microwave’s power.

Why This Recipe Works

This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and comfort. The tender chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh broccoli are coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s baked to golden perfection. The crunchy topping adds a nice contrast to the creamy interior, making each bite satisfying and full of flavor. Plus, it’s a one-dish meal, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy with your family.

The Bottom Line

Whether you’re in need of a quick weeknight dinner or planning a cozy meal for your family, Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. It’s simple to make, deliciously creamy, and filled with flavor. With its balance of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and melty cheese, this casserole is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Make it today and enjoy the perfect family meal!

ADVERTISEMENT

Leave a Comment