Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

When it comes to easy weeknight dinners that the whole family will love, few recipes hit the spot like an Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole. Packed with tender chicken, creamy cheese, and nutrient-rich broccoli, this casserole is a wholesome and hearty dish perfect for busy days. Whether you’re meal prepping or whipping up a last-minute dinner, this recipe is a game-changer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal prep time.
2. Nutritious: Combines protein-packed chicken and broccoli for a balanced meal.
3. Crowd-Pleaser: A comforting dish loved by kids and adults alike.
4. Customizable: Swap ingredients to fit your preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

this recipe

1. Prepare Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cook rice, chicken, and broccoli if not already prepared.
2. Mix the Base: In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, chicken, broccoli, condensed soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese. Mix well.
3. Layer the Casserole: Spread the mixture evenly into the greased baking dish.
4. Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!

Tips for Success

• Broccoli Tips: Use fresh broccoli for a firmer texture or frozen for convenience. If using frozen, thaw and drain excess water first.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for unique flavors.
• Add Crunch: Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top for added texture.
• Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze the assembled (unbaked) casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave for individual portions.

Serving Tips for Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Pair with Fresh Sides: Complement the creamy casserole with a light green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed asparagus for a balanced meal.
• Garnish for Flavor: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley, green onions, or a dash of paprika on top for added color and taste.
• Portion Suggestions: Serve generous scoops as a standalone meal or smaller portions alongside crusty bread or garlic knots.
• For Kids: Cut into smaller, bite-sized pieces to make it more appealing and manageable for little ones.

Storage Tips for Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Refrigeration:
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Let the casserole cool completely before transferring to storage containers to prevent condensation.
• Freezing:
  • Unbaked: Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
  • Baked: Freeze individual portions or the entire dish in airtight containers.
• Reheating:
  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat the casserole (covered with foil to prevent drying out) for 20-25 minutes.
  • Microwave: Heat individual portions in a microwave-safe dish for 2-3 minutes, stirring midway for even heating.
  • Stovetop: Warm smaller portions in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.

With these tips, you’ll enjoy your Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole fresh and delicious, even as leftovers!

1. Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Yes, you can! Dice raw chicken into small pieces, season lightly, and sauté until fully cooked before adding it to the casserole mix.

2. How can I make this casserole healthier?
Use brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber, substitute low-fat cheese and milk, and opt for a low-sodium or homemade cream of chicken soup. You can also increase the broccoli portion for more veggies.

3. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and store in the refrigerator. Bake it when you’re ready to serve, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

4. What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
You can make a homemade version by whisking together 2 tablespoons of butter, 2 tablespoons of flour, 1 cup of chicken broth, and 1 cup of milk over medium heat until thickened. This gives you a fresher, preservative-free option.

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