Broccoli Rice Cheese and Chicken Casserole is a creamy and comforting dish that’s perfect for a family dinner. It’s loaded with tender chicken, fluffy rice, fresh broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce that makes every bite absolutely delicious. This classic casserole is easy to prepare and makes for a hearty and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Introduction
Broccoli Rice Cheese and Chicken Casserole is a beloved comfort food that combines wholesome ingredients like chicken, broccoli, rice, and cheese into a warm, satisfying meal. The creamy cheese sauce ties everything together, making it an ideal dish for weeknight dinners or even a potluck. Not only is it a complete meal, but it’s also a great way to get some vegetables into your diet while enjoying a creamy, cheesy delight.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, broccoli florets, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Cook Notes & Tips
- Chicken Options: You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own chicken breasts. Leftover turkey also works well in this recipe.
- Broccoli: If you prefer softer broccoli, steam it for a few minutes before adding it to the casserole.
- Cheese: Feel free to use a mix of different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella, for added flavor.
Variations
- Spicy Casserole: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the mixture for a spicy kick.
- Mushroom Addition: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the casserole for extra texture and flavor.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: Substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for a different twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Frozen Broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the casserole to avoid excess liquid.
2. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
3. Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Broccoli Rice Cheese and Chicken Casserole is a comforting, delicious meal that’s perfect for feeding a hungry family. It’s easy to prepare, loaded with flavor, and features a perfect blend of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, fluffy rice, and gooey cheese. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or serving it at a gathering, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of a classic comfort food dish!
Happy Cooking!
