Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

Imagine a dish that wraps you in a warm, cheesy blanket while whispering sweet nothings to your taste buds. Our Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is just that—a delightful concoction of tender chicken, vibrant green broccoli, and luscious cheese that makes every bite feel like a hug from an old friend. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, promising comfort and satisfaction, making it the perfect meal for any occasion.

Now, if you’re anything like me and have a knack for forgetting what you came into the kitchen for (was it to make dinner or to devour half a bag of chips?), this casserole is here to save the day! It’s the kind of dish that brings back fond memories of family gatherings and cozy nights in—ideal for potlucks or simply when you need something hearty after a long day. So grab your apron because this cheesy delight is about to become your new favorite!

Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts, or adjust based on your crowd size; they add protein and heartiness.

• Fresh Broccoli Florets: Opt for bright green florets; they provide crunch and nutrition while pairing perfectly with cheese.

• Long Grain Rice: Choose uncooked long grain rice; it absorbs flavors beautifully during baking.

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A blend of sharp and mild cheddar offers a gooey texture and rich flavor.

• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness while infusing the dish with great flavor.

• Garlic Powder: This pantry staple adds depth and aroma; don’t skimp on it!

• Pepper: Freshly cracked pepper gives just enough kick without overpowering other flavors.

For the Sauce:

• Cream of Mushroom Soup: Provides creaminess; use a plant-based option if preferred for a lighter touch.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s happening, grab your trusty baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray—because nobody wants to deal with stuck-on casserole drama later.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season your boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Then, get ready to slice them into bite-sized pieces—this isn’t an episode of MasterChef; we want this done swiftly!

Step 3: Cook the Rice

In a medium pot, bring chicken broth to a boil, then stir in the long grain rice. Cover and let it simmer over low heat until fluffy—about 15 minutes should do it.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, chicken pieces, fresh broccoli florets, garlic powder, pepper, and cream of mushroom soup. Stir until everything is evenly coated; think of it as giving all your ingredients their best chance at glory!

Step 5: Bake

Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously on top because more cheese equals more happiness! Cover with foil and bake in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes.

Step 6: Final Touch

Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese melts perfectly golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving—if you can resist diving in right away.

Transfer to plates or serve directly from the dish for a cozy family-style meal. Enjoy with friends or family as laughter fills the room and cheesy goodness warms your heart!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then cook the rice while preparing a cheesy, creamy sauce. Combine everything in a baking dish for that ultimate cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole experience.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out broccoli for your favorite veggie, like spinach or cauliflower. Experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or cheddar for classic comfort.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring it stays cheesy and delicious.

Some of my best memories revolve around this cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole. I once made it for a family gathering, and everyone went back for seconds—always a good sign!

FAQs:

What ingredients are needed for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

To make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole, you will need cooked chicken, fresh or frozen broccoli florets, uncooked rice, shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella), vegetable broth, and seasoning such as garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. For extra creaminess, you can add cream cheese or a plant-based alternative. This recipe is flexible; feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your dietary preferences while ensuring they align with the outlined guidelines.

How long does it take to prepare Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

Preparation for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole typically takes about 15 minutes. Cooking time can vary depending on the type of rice used; usually, it takes around 30 to 40 minutes in the oven. If you use pre-cooked chicken and quick-cooking rice, the total time may be reduced. Always ensure that the casserole is bubbly and golden brown before serving for optimal flavor and texture.

Can I make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can easily prepare Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole ahead of time. Assemble the casserole as directed but do not bake it immediately. Instead, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to serve, remove it from the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven. Adjust baking time if necessary.

Is Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole suitable for freezing?

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole freezes well if stored properly. After baking, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake until heated through or microwave individual portions as needed.

Conclusion for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole:

In summary, Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a versatile dish that combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and creamy cheese over rice for a delightful meal. Preparation is quick and straightforward, making it perfect for busy weeknights. This casserole can be made ahead of time or frozen for later use without sacrificing flavor or quality. Enjoy this comforting dish as a satisfying dinner option that your whole family will love!

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Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, blending tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and gooey cheddar cheese into a warm, satisfying dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this casserole promises rich flavors and creamy textures that will leave everyone coming back for seconds. Quick to prepare and easy to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins, it’s sure to become a household staple.

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Ingredients

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• 3 cups cooked boneless, skinless chicken breasts (diced)
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup uncooked long grain rice
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp freshly cracked pepper
• 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then dice into bite-sized pieces.
3. Bring chicken broth to a boil in a pot, stir in rice, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until fluffy.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, chicken, broccoli, garlic powder, pepper, and cream of mushroom soup; mix well.
5. Pour mixture into the baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 75mg