Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my broccoli rice cheese and chicken casserole! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate—perfect for cozy family dinners or when I just need some comfort food after a long day. I remember the first time I made it; the smell of melting cheese and savory chicken filled my kitchen, wrapping everyone in anticipation. It’s such a simple recipe, yet it delivers big on flavor and satisfaction. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it a regular in your meal rotation. It’s a true crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients List
Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful casserole:
- 2 cups cooked rice (I love using brown rice for added texture!)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (Leftover rotisserie chicken works like a charm!)
- 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed (Fresh or frozen, just make sure they’re bright green!)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar is my go-to, but feel free to mix it up!)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (This adds creaminess and flavor—so good!)
- 1/2 cup milk (I usually use low-fat, but whatever you have is fine!)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (Trust me, it elevates the flavor so much!)
- Salt and pepper to taste (Always taste as you go—seasoning is key!)
How to Prepare Instructions
Now, let’s dive into the making of this scrumptious casserole! Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s crucial to get that heat going right away, so your casserole bakes evenly and perfectly!
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked rice, shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, and shredded cheese. Give it a good stir until everything is nicely mixed together. Now, it’s time to add in the creamy goodness—pour in the can of cream of chicken soup and the milk. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, and don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to your liking. Stir this delightful mixture until it’s well combined; you want every bite to be packed with flavor!
Next, transfer your creamy mixture into a greased baking dish—make sure to spread it out evenly. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is all melted and bubbly, and your kitchen smells divine! Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before diving in. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving of my delicious broccoli rice cheese and chicken casserole. Keep in mind that these values can vary a bit based on the specific brands and ingredients you use, but this should give you a good idea:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 25g
This casserole is not only comforting and satisfying, but it also packs a nutritious punch with a good amount of protein and fiber. Perfect for a family meal that’s both hearty and wholesome!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a one-dish wonder—everything bakes together, saving you time on cleanup!
- Comforting flavors of cheese, chicken, and broccoli create a satisfying meal for everyone.
- Quick prep time means you can have dinner on the table in just 45 minutes!
- Perfect for using up leftover chicken, making it both economical and convenient.
- This casserole is packed with protein and nutrients, making it a wholesome choice.
- It’s easily customizable—add your favorite veggies or switch up the cheese for a fun twist!
- Freezes beautifully, so you can enjoy it later on a busy night!
Tips for Success
Let’s make sure your broccoli rice cheese and chicken casserole turns out absolutely fantastic! Here are some of my favorite tips:
- Use cooked chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver here. If you’ve got leftover chicken from another meal, even better! It makes the prep time super quick.
- Veggie power: Feel free to sneak in other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach. Just chop them up small and add them to the mix for extra nutrition and color!
- Cheese choices: While I love cheddar, don’t hesitate to experiment! Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack can add a fun twist to the flavor.
- Make it lighter: If you want to reduce calories, try using low-fat cream of chicken soup or swap out the milk for a non-dairy option, like almond or oat milk.
- Seasoning: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Add a pinch of paprika or Italian herbs to elevate the flavor even more. Taste as you go to find that perfect balance!
- Make ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance and kept in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat. Super convenient!
- Leftovers: If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It reheats beautifully in the microwave!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to casserole perfection. Happy cooking!
Variations
Now, let’s get creative with your broccoli rice cheese and chicken casserole! There are so many fun ways to customize this dish, so feel free to let your imagination run wild!
- Veggie Medley: Swap out the broccoli for other veggies like cauliflower, green beans, or even some sweet corn! You can add a mix of your favorites to keep things interesting.
- Cheese Lovers: While cheddar is a classic, why not try a blend of mozzarella and parmesan for a cheesy stretch? Or go bold with feta or blue cheese for a unique flavor profile!
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. It adds a wonderful zing that pairs beautifully with the creamy elements.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh or dried herbs can elevate your casserole to new heights. Try adding thyme, oregano, or even some fresh parsley or cilantro for a refreshing twist.
- Low-Carb Option: For a low-carb version, substitute the rice with cauliflower rice. It still gives you that comforting texture without the carbs!
- Protein Power: Mix in some cooked bacon or sausage for an extra protein punch and a smoky flavor. Just chop it up and add it to the mix—yum!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas! The beauty of this casserole is its flexibility, so you can create a version that’s perfect for your taste buds. Enjoy experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now, let’s talk about how to store those delicious leftovers from your broccoli rice cheese and chicken casserole! First off, if you have any leftovers (which is always a good sign), let the casserole cool completely before storing it. This helps to prevent condensation from forming, which can make it soggy. Once it’s cool, transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days, so you can enjoy those comforting flavors again soon!
If you want to save it for a later date, this casserole freezes beautifully! Just cut it into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. I love having it on hand for those busy nights when cooking feels like a chore!
When you’re ready to reheat, you can do it in the microwave or the oven. For the microwave, simply place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist, and heat it in 1-minute intervals until it’s heated through. If you prefer using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C), place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil to prevent drying, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Just make sure it’s steaming hot all the way through before digging in!
With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to savor your casserole goodness even days later. Enjoy every tasty bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use uncooked chicken in this casserole?
Nope! It’s best to use cooked chicken for this recipe. That way, you ensure everything heats through evenly and you don’t end up with any undercooked chicken. Shredded rotisserie chicken is a real time-saver and works perfectly!
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready for dinner. It’s a great way to save time on busy evenings!
How do I store leftovers?
Let your casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Just remember to wrap it tightly!
What other vegetables can I add?
You can get creative here! Feel free to add any veggies you love—carrots, bell peppers, or even some zucchini would be fantastic. Just chop them up small and mix them in for added flavor and nutrition!
Can I substitute the cheese?
Of course! While I adore cheddar, you can mix and match with mozzarella, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick. Just choose your favorite cheese that melts well, and you’ll be good to go!
Broccoli rice cheese and chicken casserole: 7 Comforting Tips
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A comforting casserole made with broccoli, rice, cheese, and chicken.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix cooked rice, chicken, steamed broccoli, and cheese.
- Add cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
Notes
- Feel free to add other vegetables.
- Use leftover chicken for quicker preparation.
- This dish can be made ahead and frozen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: broccoli rice cheese and chicken casserole
