Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a classic comfort food that’s easy to prepare and loved by the whole family. With tender pieces of chicken, perfectly cooked broccoli, creamy sauce, and melted cheese, this casserole is a hearty dish that’s packed with flavor and goodness. It’s an ideal solution for a busy weeknight when you need a quick, satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- 3 cups cooked white rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking broccoli, if needed)
Optional Topping:
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter.
2. Prepare the Broccoli
- If using fresh broccoli, steam or sauté the florets in a skillet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
- If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain any excess moisture.
3. Mix the Casserole
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
Add 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture and mix well.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
5. Add the Optional Topping
If you’d like a crunchy topping, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle it over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden.
7. Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this warm, creamy, and cheesy dish!
Cooking Notes
- Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save time. It’s also great for using up any leftover turkey you may have.
- Broccoli: Be sure not to overcook the broccoli before mixing it into the casserole. It should be tender but still have a slight crunch, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Rice: This recipe works best with leftover rice or rice cooked ahead of time and cooled. You can use white rice, brown rice, or even long-grain basmati rice.
Variations
- Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Casserole: For extra cheesy goodness, add an extra cup of shredded cheese to the mixture and top it with additional cheese before baking.
- Healthier Version: Use low-fat sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and reduced-fat cheddar cheese for a lighter version.
- Spicy Kick: Add 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mixture for a spicy twist.
- Add Extra Veggies: Stir in additional vegetables such as diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas to make the casserole even heartier.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before putting it in the oven.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake until heated through.
Can I use uncooked rice in this recipe?
If you prefer to use uncooked rice, add 1 1/2 cups of uncooked rice and 3 cups of chicken broth instead of cooked rice. Mix everything together and bake, covered, for about 50-60 minutes or until the rice is tender. You may need to add additional liquid if the rice absorbs it too quickly.
What can I serve with Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete dinner.
Easy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s simple to prepare, versatile, and packed with flavor. The combination of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and fluffy rice covered in a cheesy sauce makes it a classic dish that everyone loves.
Try this recipe for a warm and satisfying meal that will bring comfort to your table. It’s sure to become a family favorite!
Let me know if you need more variations or additional tips for this recipe
