There’s something truly special about casseroles, isn’t there? They embody that warm, homey comfort that makes you feel all cozy inside. My chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole is the ultimate example of this! It’s hearty, packed with flavor, and perfect for any dinner table. Imagine tender shredded chicken mingling with vibrant broccoli and fluffy rice, all enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce that just pulls everything together. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a fantastic way to sneak in those veggies. So, whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a dish to impress friends, this casserole will surely hit the spot. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients List
To whip up this delightful chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients. Make sure to have everything on hand for a smooth cooking experience!
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed until bright green and tender
- 1 cup cooked rice, preferably long grain or basmati for fluffy texture
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, packed for maximum cheesiness
- 1/2 cup cream of chicken soup, for that creamy goodness
- 1/2 cup milk, to ensure the casserole isn’t too thick
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, for a hint of flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, to enhance the overall taste
- Salt and pepper to taste, for seasoning
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional), for a crunchy topping
Gather these ingredients, and you’re all set to create a comforting masterpiece!
How to Prepare Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delicious chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole! It’s really a straightforward process, and I promise you’ll be thrilled with the results.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial to ensure your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly bubbly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, cooked rice, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, and milk. Add the garlic powder and onion powder, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. I like to mix everything together with a wooden spoon—just make sure it’s all well combined!
- Once everything is mixed, transfer this hearty mixture into a greased baking dish. Make sure it’s evenly spread out so it cooks uniformly.
- If you’re feeling a little fancy, sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top. This adds a lovely crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
- Pop the dish in the oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown. The aroma will be absolutely irresistible!
- When it’s ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before diving in. This little wait helps everything settle and makes for easier serving.
And there you have it—a simple yet satisfying chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole that’s sure to warm your heart and fill your belly!
Nutritional Information Section
As you enjoy this chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole, it’s helpful to know a bit about its nutritional profile. Each serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately 350 calories, with 15 grams of fat, 25 grams of protein, and 30 grams of carbohydrates. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. It’s a hearty meal that manages to balance comfort and nutrition beautifully!
Tips for Success
To ensure your chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my top tips! First, make sure your chicken is cooked through and shredded into bite-sized pieces for even distribution throughout the casserole. Steaming the broccoli just until tender is key; you want it to retain some crunch and not turn mushy in the oven. Also, don’t skimp on the cheese—using a good quality cheddar really enhances the flavor!
If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture. And for a flavor boost, feel free to incorporate some fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. Lastly, let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking; this helps it set and makes serving a breeze. Trust me, taking these extra steps will elevate your dish to a whole new level!
Variations
If you’re eager to switch things up with your chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole, there are so many delightful variations to explore! For a heartier dish, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the mix. They add a wonderful depth of flavor and texture that complements the chicken and broccoli beautifully. You could even toss in some fresh spinach for a pop of color and extra nutrients!
If you’re looking for a healthier spin, swap out regular white rice for brown rice or quinoa. Not only does this add a nutty flavor, but it also boosts the fiber content. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different cheeses—Gruyère or pepper jack can bring a whole new dimension to your casserole!
Lastly, don’t be afraid to play with spices! A dash of cayenne or smoked paprika can add a warm kick that elevates the dish. With these variations, you’ll keep things exciting and delicious every time you make this comforting casserole!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole, think about what will complement those rich, creamy flavors! A fresh side salad is always a hit—try a simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the heaviness of the casserole. You can toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for a refreshing crunch!
Another great option is roasted vegetables. Seasonal veggies like carrots, zucchini, or even Brussels sprouts, drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt, add a lovely color and texture to your meal. For a cozy touch, serve some warm, crusty bread on the side; it’s perfect for scooping up any leftover cheesy goodness!
Don’t forget to garnish your casserole with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives right before serving. It adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that brightens the dish. Enjoy your meal with these delightful accompaniments, and watch everyone go back for seconds!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen broccoli for this casserole?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a great option. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the mixture to avoid excess moisture in your chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole.
What type of chicken should I use?
You can use any cooked chicken you have on hand! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic choice for its flavor and ease. Just shred it into bite-sized pieces and you’re good to go!
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge—add a few extra minutes until it’s bubbly and golden.
Is this chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and breadcrumbs, this dish is a delicious gluten-free option that everyone can enjoy.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables. You could also serve it with warm bread for a complete and satisfying meal!
Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole in 30 Minutes!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole perfect for dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, broccoli, rice, cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a variation, add cooked mushrooms or bell peppers.
- Use brown rice for a healthier option.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for color.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole, casserole recipes, chicken dinner, comfort food
