Broccoli, Rice, Cheese and Chicken Casserole
Casseroles are the ultimate comfort food, and this Broccoli, Rice, Cheese and Chicken Casserole is no exception. This hearty dish is a crowd-pleasing favorite, combining the creamy richness of cheese, the nourishing goodness of broccoli, the heartiness of chicken, and the versatility of rice. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a dish to share at a potluck, this casserole is sure to delight.
What makes this recipe so special is the way the flavors and textures come together in perfect harmony. The tender chicken and fluffy rice provide a satisfying base, while the broccoli adds a delightful crunch and the cheese sauce creates a comforting, velvety coating. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and nutritious, making it a go-to option for busy families or those seeking a delicious, wholesome meal.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese and Chicken Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly delicious, with a flavor profile that’s both familiar and elevated. The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and vibrant broccoli creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will have your taste buds dancing.
But what sets this recipe apart is its accessibility and versatility. The ingredients are largely pantry or freezer staples, making it easy to whip up on a whim. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead option, allowing you to prepare it in advance and bake it when you’re ready to serve. And with a few simple swaps, you can adapt the recipe to suit various dietary needs or preferences, making it a true crowd-pleaser.
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Broccoli, Rice, Cheese and Chicken Casserole ❓
• 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed or blanched
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
The beauty of this Broccoli, Rice, Cheese and Chicken Casserole is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of creamy soup, cheese, and tender chicken creates the classic comfort food-inspired flavor profile that has made casserole recipes perennially popular.
📝 How to Make Broccoli, Rice, Cheese and Chicken Casserole Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, cheddar cheese, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
• Step 3: Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
• Step 4: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese is melted and lightly browned on top.
• Step 5: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
• Total time: 40-45 minutes
Compared to traditional chicken and rice casseroles, which can take up to an hour to prepare, this Broccoli, Rice, Cheese and Chicken Casserole saves you 20% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 6 servings):
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fat: 21g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 725mg
These Broccoli, Rice, Cheese and Chicken Casserole provide approximately 28% of your daily protein requirements and 12% of your daily fiber needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Substitute cauliflower rice for the white rice to reduce the carbohydrate content.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Use a dairy-free cream of chicken soup and non-dairy cheese or nutritional yeast to create a dairy-free casserole.
• Added protein: Boost the protein content by adding extra cooked chicken or using a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh.
• Boost vegetables: Increase the vegetable content by adding more broccoli or incorporating other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the Broccoli, Rice, Cheese and Chicken Casserole.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair with a crusty loaf of bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Complement the casserole with a light, refreshing tomato and cucumber salad for a balanced plate.
• For a family-style dinner, serve the casserole alongside roasted potatoes or a side of garlic-infused rice.
• Create an impressive main dish platter by arranging the casserole with additional grilled or roasted vegetables for a visually appealing presentation.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Dry casserole: If the casserole seems too dry, add a bit more milk or cream to the mixture before baking to ensure a creamy, moist texture.
• Forgetting to season: Make sure to season the casserole with the appropriate amount of salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Undercooking the rice: Ensure the rice is cooked through before assembling the casserole to prevent it from being crunchy or undercooked.
• Skipping the baking step: Don’t skip the baking step, as it helps meld the flavors and allows the cheese to melt and create a delicious, bubbly topping.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These Broccoli, Rice, Cheese and Chicken Casserole retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the casserole as directed, but do not bake. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
• Freezing baked: Let the baked casserole cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or bake the entire casserole at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until hot and bubbly. This will help restore the creamy texture.
❓ FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese and Chicken Casserole is an excellent make-ahead option. You can assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. When ready to serve, simply bake the casserole as directed. You can also freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Can I substitute different proteins or vegetables?
Yes, this recipe is very versatile. You can substitute the chicken with cooked ground beef, turkey, or even plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh. For the vegetables, you can swap the broccoli for other veggies like cauliflower, spinach, or mushrooms. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and seasoning as needed.
Is this casserole suitable for dietary restrictions?
With a few simple modifications, this casserole can be adapted to suit various dietary needs. For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free cream of chicken soup and non-dairy cheese or nutritional yeast. To make it lower in carbs, replace the white rice with cauliflower rice. And for a gluten-free option, ensure all your ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Why is my casserole dry or overcooked?
If your casserole turns out dry or overcooked, there are a few potential issues to address. First, make sure you’re not overcooking the broccoli, as this can lead to a mushy texture. Additionally, ensure you’re using the right ratio of liquid ingredients (milk, sour cream) to prevent the casserole from becoming too dry. Finally, keep a close eye on the baking time and adjust it as needed to prevent overcooking.
Can I add any extra ingredients to the casserole?
Absolutely! This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese and Chicken Casserole is a great canvas for all sorts of additions. You can stir in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions for extra flavor and texture. You can also top the casserole with crispy fried onions, crushed crackers, or a breadcrumb topping. Just be mindful of adjusting the baking time and ensuring the casserole remains moist.
Conclusion
These Broccoli, Rice, Cheese and Chicken Casserole represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a comforting weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, they’re sure to impress with their creamy, cheesy goodness and satisfying texture. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these casserole dishes demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the assembly and baking process. So, gather your loved ones, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and nourishing meal that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.
