Description: A comforting and hearty casserole featuring tender broccoli, fluffy rice, creamy sauce, savory chicken, and plenty of melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups uncooked rice (long-grain or your preferred type)
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 1/4 cup (2 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup milk (any fat percentage)
- 1 small white onion, finely chopped
- 16 ounces (1 pound) fresh broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces (or frozen broccoli florets, thawed)
- 2 cups (8 ounces) shredded Cheddar cheese, divided (sharp, medium, or mild, as preferred)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Cook the rice according to package directions. While the rice is cooking, prepare the other ingredients. If you’re using fresh broccoli, wash and chop it into bite-sized florets. If you’re using frozen broccoli, make sure it’s thawed and drained. Finely chop the white onion. Shred the cooked chicken if you haven’t already.
Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, melted butter, milk, chopped onion, and broccoli florets. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed and coated in the creamy sauce. This step is crucial for creating a cohesive and flavorful casserole.
Step 4: Pour the mixture into the prepared 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly to create a uniform layer. Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Reserve the remaining 1 cup of cheese for the final step.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly around the edges. The top should be lightly golden brown. During the last few minutes of baking, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Continue baking until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s incredibly easy to make, using simple ingredients that you likely already have on hand. It’s adaptable to different dietary needs and preferences. This recipe is also a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken or rice. The creamy sauce, tender broccoli, and cheesy topping make it a satisfying and delicious meal that everyone will enjoy. It’s also great for meal prepping.
Cooking Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
- Add a side of garlic bread or breadsticks for dipping into the creamy sauce.
- This casserole pairs well with steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or sautéed spinach.
- For a heartier meal, serve with a side of mashed potatoes or sweet potato fries.
Tips:
- To save time, use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own.
- You can substitute different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a blend of cheeses.
- Add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the casserole for extra flavor.
- If you don’t have condensed cream of chicken or mushroom soup, you can make your own using a roux and chicken or mushroom broth.
- For a spicier casserole, add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture.
- To prevent the cheese from burning, tent the casserole with foil during the last few minutes of baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
30-35 minutes
Total Time:
50-55 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Estimated, per serving)
- Calories: 450-550
- Protein: 30-40 grams
- Sodium: 600-800 mg
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Conclusion:
The Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients and flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this casserole is sure to be a hit. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that will leave you feeling warm and nourished. Enjoy!
5 Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
- Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
- Yes, you can definitely use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before adding it to the casserole. This will prevent the casserole from becoming watery.
- Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
- Absolutely! You can use cooked turkey, ham, or even ground beef. If you’re vegetarian, you can use tofu or beans for a plant-based option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake it, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.
- Can I freeze this casserole?
- Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
- What can I add to make this casserole spicier?
- You can add a dash of hot sauce, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or some diced jalapeños to the casserole for a spicy kick. You can also use pepper jack cheese for a spicier cheese flavor.
