This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is a timeless comfort dish that combines creamy, cheesy flavors with tender chicken and hearty broccoli. It’s the perfect make-ahead meal or crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy. Let’s dive into the details, tips, and variations to make this delicious casserole recipe the ultimate success!
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.
- All-in-One Dish: Packed with protein, carbs, and veggies, it’s a balanced meal in itself.
- Great for Meal Prep: You can assemble it ahead of time and bake when you’re ready, making it ideal for busy schedules.
Ingredients
- 2 cups water: For cooking the rice and giving it a fluffy texture.
- 2 cups uncooked rice: Long-grain white rice works best for this recipe; you could also use brown rice but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- 1 (10 oz) can cream of chicken soup: Adds creaminess and rich flavor.
- 1 (10 oz) can cream of mushroom soup: Adds an earthy, umami flavor; you can substitute with another cream soup if preferred.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Rotisserie chicken is perfect for this, or use any leftover chicken you have on hand.
- ¼ cup butter: Adds richness and enhances the flavors.
- 1 cup milk: Helps to bind everything together with a creamy consistency.
- 1 small white onion, diced: Adds a mild sweetness and depth to the casserole.
- 16 ounces broccoli pieces: Fresh or frozen, chopped into bite-sized pieces for a perfect balance of flavors.
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded: Cheddar provides a bold, cheesy flavor, but feel free to use your favorite cheese.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 baking dish or casserole dish with non-stick spray. This step ensures the casserole won’t stick and makes clean-up easier.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
Bring the 2 cups of water to a boil, add the rice, and cook according to package directions. Cooking the rice separately helps avoid a soggy casserole and ensures each grain absorbs the flavors.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
In your prepared baking dish, add the cooked rice and shredded chicken, distributing them evenly. Pour in both the cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soups, melted butter, milk, diced onion, and broccoli pieces. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure even flavor distribution. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese to give the casserole its initial layer of cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until bubbly and hot throughout. Baking allows the flavors to meld together while softening the broccoli and thickening the casserole to a perfect consistency.
Step 5: Add the Final Cheese Layer
During the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top. This step gives the casserole a melty, golden layer that’s irresistible. Bake just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Let it Rest and Serve
Once the casserole is out of the oven, let it sit for about 5 minutes to set and cool slightly. This resting time allows the flavors to settle and makes serving easier. Serve hot with a side salad, garlic bread, or breadsticks for a complete meal!
Tips for the Best Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken.
- Fresh or Frozen Broccoli? Either works well, but if you use frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw and drain it to avoid excess water in the casserole.
- Cheese Choice: Cheddar gives a sharp flavor, but Monterey Jack, Swiss, or even mozzarella could add different flavor twists.
- Pre-Cook Onion (Optional): If you prefer a softer onion texture, sauté it briefly in a pan before adding it to the mixture.
- Add a Crunchy Topping: For a twist, sprinkle crushed crackers or fried onions on top before baking for added texture.
Variations to Try
- Add Bacon: For a smoky flavor, sprinkle cooked, crumbled bacon over the top before baking.
- Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
- Creamier Casserole: Substitute half the milk with sour cream or Greek yogurt for an even creamier texture.
- Make It Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for chickpeas and use vegetable broth or extra soup instead.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, it freezes well. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking, or bake from frozen, allowing extra time.
What Other Vegetables Can I Use?
If you want to switch things up, consider adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots. Just be sure to chop them small and cook until tender before adding.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftovers?
For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire casserole with foil and bake in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a hearty main dish on its own, but here are some ideas to round out the meal:
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic Bread or Breadsticks: Perfect for scooping up every cheesy bite!
- Roasted Vegetables: For an extra dose of veggies, serve alongside roasted carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts.
Final Thoughts
Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is a comforting classic that never disappoints. With creamy layers of rice, tender chicken, and melty cheese, it’s a meal that’s easy to love and even easier to make. Whether you’re feeding a family, preparing for a potluck, or looking for a meal-prep recipe, this casserole has you covered.
