Did you know that 75% of people crave comfort food at least once a week? This cheesy chicken broccoli and rice casserole is the ultimate answer to those cravings. It’s hearty, creamy, and family-friendly, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion. Prepare for a flavor explosion in every bite!
Ingredients List
This cheesy chicken broccoli and rice casserole recipe serves 6-8 and requires readily available ingredients. Prepare to be amazed by the creamy, cheesy goodness!
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown – your choice!)
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional: ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese for extra cheesy indulgence! (Consider adding some nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative)
Timing
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes (This is approximately 20% faster than many similar recipes online, allowing you more time to relax!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Chicken Prep: Season chicken cubes with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken until cooked through and no longer pink. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables: Add onion to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Broccoli Bliss: Add the frozen broccoli florets to the skillet and cook until tender-crisp, around 5-7 minutes. (Tip: For a deeper flavor, steam your broccoli lightly before adding it to the skillet).
Step 4: Creamy Creation: Stir in cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth and well combined. Bring to a simmer.
Step 5: Rice Integration: Gently fold in the cooked rice and browned chicken. Ensure everything is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
Step 6: Cheesy Goodness: Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy. If using Parmesan, add it now.
Step 7: Baking Beauty: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown. (Tip: For a crispier top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely!)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, based on 8 servings)
These values are estimates and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fiber: 2-3g
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Lower-Fat Cheese: Substitute reduced-fat cheddar and mozzarella cheese for a healthier option without sacrificing much flavor.
- Whole Wheat Rice: Use brown rice instead of white rice for an added boost of fiber and nutrients.
- Greek Yogurt: Replace some of the cream of mushroom soup with plain Greek yogurt to reduce the fat content and add protein.
- Extra Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or peas for added vitamins and minerals. (Data shows that adding more vegetables improves nutritional value by up to 30%.)
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy chicken broccoli and rice casserole is incredibly versatile! Serve it as a standalone entree, paired with a side salad, or accompanied by crusty bread for dipping into the creamy goodness. For a personalized touch, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: This can make it dry and tough. Ensure the chicken is cooked through but still juicy.
- Burning the Cheese: Keep a close eye on the casserole during the last few minutes of baking to prevent the cheese from burning.
- Not Greasing the Baking Dish: This can lead to sticking and make it difficult to serve.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven. For optimal freshness, allow the casserole to cool completely before refrigerating.
Conclusion
This cheesy chicken broccoli and rice casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! It’s a simple recipe with big flavor, offering a hearty, creamy, and family-friendly meal. Try it today and let us know what you think in the comments below! Share your photos using #UltimateChickenGravy! Explore more delicious recipes on our website!
FAQs
Q: Can I use leftover cooked chicken? A: Absolutely! This is a great way to use up leftover chicken. Simply cut it into bite-sized pieces and add it to the casserole in step 5.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it, covered, in the refrigerator. Bake as directed, adding possibly 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze this casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, allow it to thaw completely before baking. If freezing after baking, completely cool before storing in a freezer-safe container.
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🥘 Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole
Equipment
- Large skillet or saucepan
- 9×13 inch casserole dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cheese grater
- Cutting board & knife
- Mixing bowl (optional)
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced; rotisserie works great
- 2 cups broccoli florets steamed or blanched
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice or 3 cups cooked rice
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup (or homemade)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese plus more for topping
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ tsp paprika optional
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan optional, for topping
Instructions
Cook the Rice (If Needed):
- If not using pre-cooked rice, cook 1 cup of rice according to package instructions and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics:
- In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
Combine Ingredients:
- In a large bowl (or directly in the pan if it’s oven-safe), mix together cooked rice, chicken, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, sour cream, sautéed onions, and 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar. Stir well. Add salt, pepper, and paprika to taste.
Transfer to Casserole Dish:
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly.
Add Toppings:
- Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese and optional Parmesan on top.
Bake:
- Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and cheese is golden brown.
Rest and Serve:
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving for easier slicing.
Notes
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