why make this recipe
Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole is a wonderful dish that brings together tender chicken, wholesome rice, and nutritious broccoli, all topped with melted cheese. This casserole is not only easy to make but also comforting and delicious. It’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies, making it a hit with both kids and adults!
how to make Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 3 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, lightly steamed)
- 1 can (10.5 oz / ~300 g) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted, optional, for topping)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare ingredients: Cook rice according to package directions. Lightly steam broccoli until just tender. If using frozen, thaw and drain well.
- Mix sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Combine casserole: Stir in cooked chicken, rice, broccoli, and 1 cup of the cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese.
- Optional topping: If using breadcrumbs, mix them with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until heated through and cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!
how to serve Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole
Serve this casserole warm, straight from the oven. It makes a complete meal on its own but can also be accompanied by a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up all the cheesy goodness.
how to store Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole
If you have leftovers, let them cool completely. Store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze individual portions, wrapped tightly, for up to 3 months. To reheat, you can use the microwave or bake it in the oven until warmed through.
tips to make Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole
- Make sure the chicken is cooked and shredded before mixing it with other ingredients.
- For more flavor, add your favorite spices or herbs to the mix.
- Feel free to use leftover dinner chicken or rotisserie chicken for even quicker preparation.
- If you prefer a creamier casserole, add extra sour cream or cheese.
variation
You can easily customize this casserole by adding other vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn. You may also switch the cheese to mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile!
FAQs
Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A: Yes, you can use brown rice! Just make sure it is fully cooked before mixing it in.
Q: Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and make sure your breadcrumbs are gluten-free as well.
Q: Can I make this casserole in advance?
A: Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. Just bake it before serving!
Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook rice according to package directions and lightly steam broccoli until just tender. If using frozen, thaw and drain well.
- In a large bowl, whisk together cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in cooked chicken, rice, broccoli, and 1 cup of the cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese.
- If using breadcrumbs, mix them with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
- Place in the oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until heated through and cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!