DELICIOUS AND EASY CHICKEN BROCCOLI CASSEROLE
Introduction: Welcome to the ultimate comfort food experience with our delectable Chicken Broccoli Casserole recipe! Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this dish combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, creamy sauce, and gooey melted cheese for a mouthwatering meal that will leave everyone craving seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply treating yourself to a satisfying dinner, our Chicken Broccoli Casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Join us as we explore the simple steps to creating this delicious and comforting dish.
Ingredients: Gather your ingredients to embark on this culinary journey:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, or 2 cups diced rotisserie chicken
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 1/4 cups white long grain rice, uncooked
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, uncooked
- 10.5 oz. condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, separated
Instructions: Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Chicken Broccoli Casserole:
- Prepare the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Season chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then cook until golden brown and cooked through. Alternatively, use pre-cooked diced rotisserie chicken.
- Cook the Rice: In a separate pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Stir in olive oil and rice, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 18-20 minutes or until rice is cooked through.
- Steam the Broccoli: In a microwave-safe bowl, place broccoli florets with a small amount of water. Cover and microwave for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain any excess water.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a saucepan, combine cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Cook over medium heat until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Assemble the Casserole: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and cheese sauce. Mix until well combined.
- Bake: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with remaining shredded cheddar cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations: Enhance your Chicken Broccoli Casserole with these tips and variations:
- Add Extra Veggies: Customize your casserole by adding additional vegetables such as sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
- Swap the Protein: Substitute chicken with cooked turkey, ham, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Use Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Swiss for a unique flavor profile.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free condensed cream of chicken soup and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions: Indulge in a keto-friendly or low-carb version of this casserole with these adaptations:
- Keto-Friendly Option: Replace rice with cauliflower rice and use a low-carb condensed cream of chicken soup. Adjust the milk and sour cream proportions to fit your keto macros. Opt for full-fat cheese to keep the dish keto-friendly.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Reduce the amount of rice or omit it entirely. Increase the quantity of broccoli or add other low-carb vegetables to bulk up the casserole. Use a low-carb or homemade cream of chicken soup to minimize carb content.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? A: Yes, frozen broccoli can be used as a convenient alternative to fresh. Simply thaw and drain the broccoli before adding it to the casserole.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator, uncover, and bake as directed.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this dish? A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer individual portions or the entire dish to freezer-safe containers. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.
Q: Can I omit the rice to make it lower in carbs? A: Yes, you can omit the rice or reduce the amount to lower the carb content of the casserole. Alternatively, you can replace the rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
In conclusion, our Chicken Broccoli Casserole is the epitome of comfort food—rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a recipe that you’ll turn to time and time again. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in the deliciousness of our Chicken Broccoli Casserole—it’s comfort food at its finest!
With this comprehensive guide, you’re well-equipped to create a memorable dining experience with our Chicken Broccoli Casserole. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor every bite of this irresistible dish. Bon appétit!
