ADVERTISEMENT
Ingredients for Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole
This recipe requires simple, everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry or fridge.
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)—leftover chicken works great!
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown rice, depending on preference)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed or blanched
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (or substitute with cream of mushroom or a homemade cream sauce)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (for added creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)
- 1/4 cup milk (to thin out the mixture slightly)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the casserole dish)
How to Make Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
Steam or blanch your broccoli florets until they are tender but still slightly crisp. You want them to maintain their texture in the casserole. Drain well and set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Casserole Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, steamed broccoli, cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and mix well. The mixture should be creamy and well-coated with the soup and mayo.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the chicken, rice, and broccoli mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly in the dish.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake
Top the casserole with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using). The cheese will melt and become golden and bubbly during baking.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through. If you want the top to be extra golden, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end, but keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting, cheesy dish with a side salad or your favorite vegetable.
Tips and Variations
- Make it Healthier: Use brown rice or cauliflower rice instead of white rice for a healthier, low-carb alternative. You can also use low-fat or fat-free cream of chicken soup and mayonnaise to lighten up the dish.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to mix in other vegetables such as peas, carrots, or even spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Leftover Chicken: This is a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken or any other cooked chicken you have on hand. Shred it up and add it to the casserole for a quick and easy meal.
- Spicy Twist: For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or stir in some diced jalapeños to the casserole mixture.
- Freezing: This casserole is freezer-friendly! To freeze, assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 50 minutes, or until heated through.
Why This Casserole Works So Well
This Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole is the perfect balance of savory, cheesy goodness with just the right amount of creaminess. The chicken adds protein, the broccoli offers a nutritious green veggie, and the rice provides substance to fill you up. The cheese ties everything together, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s hard to resist.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a comforting dish to enjoy on a cold evening, this Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole will quickly become a favorite. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and versatile enough to fit any dietary needs or preferences. Plus, the leftovers taste just as great, making it a perfect option for meal prepping!
Give this recipe a try, and watch it become a go-to comfort food in your household!
ADVERTISEMENT
