Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe
Okay, friends, gather ‘round! What is a dish that has been in my family for as long as I can remember? What is the kind of meal that makes you feel good? What is the recipe for Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole? Is it like mac and cheese’s more sophisticated cousin? I know, casseroles get a bad rap, but trust me, this one’s different. What’s a crowd pleaser? I’ve tweaked this recipe over the years to get it just right, and honestly, it’s become one of my favorite recipes. What are some dishes I can make in my sleep? What’s the best part? Even my pickiest eaters devour it without complaint!
What is Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole?
What is Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole? What is the ultimate comfort food hug in a dish? What’s a creamy, cheesy mixture of tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and rice? What is the best way to cook broccoli, all baked together until bubbly and golden brown. Is it fancy? This casserole is a symphony of textures and flavors – the soft rice, the slightly crunchy broccoli, and the crispy chorizo. What is the perfect combination of savory chicken and cheese sauce? My grandma used to call it her “everything-but-the-kitchen sink” meal, because you can easily get it. What are some good ways to customize this recipe with veggies or protein you have on hand?
Why you will love this recipe?
There are so many reasons why I absolutely adore this Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe. First and foremost, the flavor is simply incredible. The combination of creamy cheese sauce, savory chicken, and slightly bitter broccoli is just perfection. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to lick the plate clean! Plus, this casserole is surprisingly easy to make. Even on the busiest weeknights, I can whip this up in under an hour. I always have cooked rice and chicken in the freezer, so it’s just a matter of throwing everything together and popping it in the oven. What I love most about this recipe is its cost-efficiency. The ingredients are all relatively inexpensive, especially if you buy chicken in bulk and freeze it. Speaking of versatility, this casserole is amazing as a main course, but it also makes a fantastic side dish for potlucks or holiday gatherings. You can even make it ahead of time and bake it later, which is a total lifesaver when you’re entertaining. It’s easily a favorite, just like my Cheesy Ham and Potato Bake, only this one is a touch healthier (thanks to the broccoli!).
How do you make a chicken casserole with Broccoli, Rice, and Cheese?
Quick Overview
How do you make Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole? What is the best way to cook rice, steam broccoli, and shred chicken? How do you make a creamy cheese sauce? Is bubbly and golden brown? What is the best part? There’s no wrong way to do it! Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your liking and get creative with the toppings. I love this recipe. It’s forgiving.
Ingredients Notes
For the Casserole: What
Cooked Chicken: I usually use shredded rotisserie chicken, but leftover grilled or baked chicken works great too.
Cooked Rice: Long grain, short grain brown rice – whatever you prefer! I usually use about 3 cups of cooked rice.
Fresh or frozen, just make sure they’re cut into bite-sized pieces. About 2 cups.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This is the base of the creamy sauce. If you prefer a different cream soup, you can substitute some other vegetables for it. What are some good ways to make homemade cream sauce?
Milk: Any kind of milk will work, but I usually use whole milk for extra creaminess. I’ve used almond milk and it tasted great!
What’s your favorite Cheddar cheese blend? What are some good substitutes for Parmesan? Is 2 cups the sweet spot?
Onion, finely chopped: Adds a savory depth to the casserole.
What are the best ingredients for garlic and onion powder?
Salt and pepper: To taste. Don’t be afraid to season generously!
Butter: For sauteing the onion and adding richness to the sauce.
Optional Toppings
Breadcrumbs: For a crunchy topping.
Why is more cheese always a good idea?
Crushed Crackers: Ritz crackers are my favorite!
Chopped Parsley: For a pop of color and freshness.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. How do you remove a casserole from the oven? I always use a glass baking dish because it distributes the heat evenly, but metal dish will work. I like to use it for baking. How do you use butter to coat a pan? When you don’t have to,
Step 2: Sauté Onion
How do you melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat? Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step is important because it adds a lot of flavor to the casserole. Don’t skip it! You want the onion to be translucent and slightly sweet. If it starts to brown too quickly, lower the heat and add a splash of water.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In the same skillet, stir in the cream of chicken soup and milk. Whisk until smooth. What is the recipe for shredded cheddar cheese? Powder, onion powder, salt, pepper. Cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. I like to add a pinch of nutmeg to my soup for extra warmth, but that’s totally optional.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, broccoli florets, and cheese sauce. Is it safe to overmix casserole? How do you make sure everything is evenly coated in sauce? If the mixture is too thick, add a little more milk.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
What is the best way to spread out the mixture in a baking dish? What’s the best way to serve shredded cheddar cheese on top? What should I do to create a golden brown crust?
Step 6: Add Topping (Optional)
If you’re using breadcrumbs or crushed crackers, sprinkle it over the cheese. I like to drizzle a little melted butter over the topping for extra flavor and crunch. If you’re using Ritz crackers, just crush them and sprinkle them on. So good!
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown. What should I do if the cheese is melted and browned? If the topping starts to brown too quickly, cover the dish with foil for the last 10 minutes of cooking. How long does it take for a cake to bake?
Step 8: Cool & Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. What is the best way to set up a casserole? Garnish with chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!
5. What to Serve It With
What should I serve it with?
What are some good reasons to make Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole? What are some of my favorite pairings for dinner?
For a light lunch:What is a good side dish to serve with this hearty casserole? It adds a touch of freshness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the cheese sauce.
For a family dinner:Serve with a side of roasted asparagus or steamed green beans. What are some of the best veggies to eat?
For a Potluck:Bring along a fruit salad or dessert bar. What is a hit at potlucks? What are some good side dishes to serve with garlic bread?
For a Cozy Night In: Pair it with a glass of your favorite wine and a good movie. This casserole is the ultimate comfort food, so it’s perfect for a relaxing night in. It’s also amazing with a piece of crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce. My kids love having it with a side of fruit, like grapes or apple slices.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole
Okay, here are a few of my tried-and-true tips for making the *best* Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole:
Chicken Prep: If you’re using leftover cooked chicken, make sure to shred it into bite-sized pieces. This will make it easier to eat and help it distribute evenly throughout the casserole.
Rice Choice: Use whatever type of rice you prefer, but make sure it’s cooked properly. Undercooked rice will be hard and crunchy, while overcooked rice will be mushy. I usually use long-grain rice because it holds its shape well, but short-grain rice works too. Brown rice is also a great option for a healthier twist!
Broccoli Cooking: Don’t overcook the broccoli! You want it to be slightly crisp-tender, not mushy. I usually steam it for about 5 minutes, or until it’s bright green and slightly softened. You can also roast it for a deeper flavor.
Cheese Quality: Use good-quality cheddar cheese. The better the cheese, the better the flavor. I like to use a sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor, but mild cheddar works too. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it often contains cellulose that can prevent it from melting properly. I tested this with a cheaper store brand, and it didn’t melt as well.
Sauce Consistency: If the cheese sauce is too thick, add a little more milk until it reaches the desired consistency. You want it to be creamy and pourable, but not too thin.
Topping Crunch: For a crunchy topping, use breadcrumbs or crushed crackers. I like to mix them with a little melted butter for extra flavor and crispness.
Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to experiment with different ingredients. You can add other veggies, such as carrots, peas, or corn. You can also use different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan. The possibilities are endless!
Baking Tips: If the casserole starts to brown too quickly, cover it with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking. This will prevent the topping from burning. If you are using a convection oven, lower the temperature 25 degrees and check often.
Flavor Boost: For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce. This will give the casserole a subtle smoky or spicy kick.
Storing and Reheating Tips
This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is great for meal prepping because it stores so well!
Room Temperature: I don’t recommend storing it at room temperature for more than a couple of hours. Bacteria can grow quickly at room temperature, so it’s best to refrigerate it as soon as possible.
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the casserole is completely cooled before refrigerating. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the casserole soggy. Place plastic wrap directly on top before placing the lid for the best results.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, you can bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it in individual portions. Just be sure to cover it with a paper towel to prevent splattering. If it seems dry, add a splash of milk or water. If you want it crispy put it under the broiler for a few minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to freeze the casserole, it’s best to add the topping after thawing and before baking. This will prevent the topping from getting soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe is a true winner in my book. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken and rice. If you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying meal that the whole family will love, look no further! It really is one of my family’s top requests. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other casserole recipes, like my Cheesy Potato Casserole or my Tuna Noodle Casserole. They’re all just as easy and delicious! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Be sure to leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And don’t forget to rate this recipe if you enjoyed it. I love seeing your creations, so tag me in your photos on social media!
Remember it later
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Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen
- 2 cups cooked chicken diced
- 1.5 cups cooked rice white or brown
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup 10.5 oz can
- 0.5 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for greasing
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, diced chicken, broccoli florets, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- In a separate small bowl, mix together the condensed cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and broccoli mixture, stirring until everything is well coated.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
