Name: Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 ½ cups cooked white rice; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 can cream of chicken soup; 1 cup chicken broth; ½ cup mayonnaise; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Today, I’m excited to share with you one of my all-time favorite recipes – Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole. This dish holds a special place in my heart as it reminds me of cozy family dinners and cherished memories around the dining table. The combination of tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, creamy cheese, and comforting rice makes this casserole a true crowd-pleaser that never fails to delight.

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather all the ingredients we’ll need for this delectable casserole:

Ingredients:

1. 2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded

2. 2 cups of broccoli florets

3. 1 ½ cups of cooked white rice

4. 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese

5. 1 can of cream of chicken soup

6. 1 cup of chicken broth

7. ½ cup of mayonnaise

8. 1 small onion, finely chopped

9. 2 cloves of garlic, minced

10. Salt and pepper to taste

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s embark on a culinary journey filled with warmth and flavor.

As I start preparing this casserole, the familiar aromas wafting through the kitchen instantly transport me back to my childhood. I remember watching my grandmother effortlessly whip up this dish, infusing it with love and care at every step. It’s amazing how food can evoke such powerful memories and emotions, isn’t it?

A helpful tip I’ve learned over the years is to blanch the broccoli before adding it to the casserole. This not only helps retain its vibrant green color but also ensures that it cooks perfectly tender in the oven. It’s these little tricks and techniques passed down through generations that truly elevate a dish from good to exceptional.

One of the things I love most about this recipe is its versatility. Depending on the season, you can easily switch up the ingredients to create new variations. For a summer twist, try adding some cherry tomatoes and fresh basil. In the fall, a sprinkle of crispy bacon on top adds a delightful crunch. The possibilities are endless, and each iteration brings its own unique charm to the table.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.

2. In a large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, broccoli, rice, cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, mayonnaise, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.

3. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

4. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown on top.

5. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the cheesy goodness!

As I take the steaming casserole out of the oven, the golden crust beckoning me with promises of gooey cheese and savory goodness, I can’t help but smile. There’s something so satisfying about preparing a hearty meal that brings joy to the ones you love. And in that moment, surrounded by the comforting aroma of home-cooked food, I feel truly content.