Broccoli, Rice, Chicken, and Cheese Casserole
This hearty casserole is the perfect combination of comforting flavors and textures. The tender chicken.
fresh broccoli, fluffy rice, and creamy cheese all come together for a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table.
With a few simple ingredients, you can create a savory meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ideal for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this casserole can be customized to suit your tastes and preferences.
Ingredients
2 Tablespoons butter
2 skinless and boneless chicken breasts or 2 cups diced rotisserie chicken
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Salt or pepper, to taste
2 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
2 cups fresh broccoli florets, cooked but not overcooked
10.5 oz. condensed cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, separated
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a casserole dish with a little butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
then add the chicken breasts, seasoning them with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken until golden.
brown on each side, about 5 to 7 minutes per side, then remove the chicken and set it aside to cool slightly.
Once the chicken is cooled, dice it into small, bite-sized pieces. In the same skillet, add the olive oil and sauté the uncooked rice for a couple of minutes, allowing it to slightly toast.
Add the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Let the mixture cook for 10 minutes, allowing the rice to begin absorbing the liquid but not fully cooking it.
Next, add the cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir everything together until.
the mixture is well combined, and the cheese begins to melt into the sauce. Then, fold in the diced chicken and cooked broccoli, ensuring everything is coated in the creamy sauce.
Transfer the entire mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to set and the dish to firm up slightly, making it easier to serve. Serve hot, and enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness!
How to Make
To create the perfect Broccoli, Rice, Chicken, and Cheese Casserole, start by preparing your chicken. You can either cook fresh chicken breasts or use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Seasoning the chicken with Italian seasoning adds a touch of herby flavor that complements the richness of the casserole.
The rice is cooked directly in the skillet, allowing it to absorb all the flavors from the chicken broth and seasonings. By toasting the rice first, it takes on a nutty flavor that enhances the dish.
Combining the rice with creamy ingredients like sour cream and cream of chicken soup makes the casserole indulgently smooth and comforting.
The broccoli adds a fresh, crisp texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, cheesy sauce. Be sure not to overcook the broccoli, as it should remain.
tender but still vibrant and slightly crunchy. Layering the casserole with cheese creates a bubbly, golden top that’s irresistible.
Baking the casserole ensures that all the ingredients meld together into one harmonious dish.
while the cheese on top gets nice and melty. This step not only enhances the flavor but also adds to the texture, giving you a gooey, cheesy bite with every forkful.
The casserole can easily be made ahead of time, stored in the fridge, and baked when needed. This makes it a perfect option for busy days or meal prepping.
If you want to add extra vegetables, feel free to mix in other favorites like bell peppers or carrots to make the dish even more colorful.
Variations
There are plenty of ways to customize this casserole to your tastes. For a healthier twist, you can swap the cream of chicken soup for a lighter version or a homemade creamy sauce using Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream.
You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for added heat.
If you’re looking to reduce carbs, try substituting the rice with cauliflower rice. This is a great way to make the dish lower in carbohydrates while still enjoying the same comforting flavors.
You can also add extra vegetables, such as mushrooms or spinach, to make the casserole more hearty and nutritious.
For a more decadent version, consider topping the casserole with crispy breadcrumbs or crumbled bacon before baking.
This will add a satisfying crunch and extra flavor. If you want a smoky undertone, try adding a bit of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to the sauce.
If you love a bit of spice, mix in diced jalapeños or a bit of hot sauce to the casserole before baking.
This will add a nice kick and give the dish a whole new dimension of flavor. Another great variation is to use a different type of protein, such as turkey or even shrimp, if you want to switch things up.
For those who prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like zucchini, peas, or corn. You can even add some tofu for a plant-based protein alternative.
The beauty of this casserole is that it’s incredibly versatile and can be tailored to fit any dietary preference or taste.
Tips
When preparing the chicken, be sure not to overcook it to ensure it remains moist and tender. If using rotisserie chicken, be sure to shred it evenly to ensure it mixes well into the casserole.
The chicken should be the star of the dish, so a great seasoning blend will really elevate the overall flavor.
For the rice, remember not to overcook it in the skillet before adding the broth. It should still have a bite to it, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
This prevents the rice from becoming mushy and ensures the casserole has a nice texture.
If you like your casserole with extra cheese, feel free to add more than the recipe calls for. You can layer it within the casserole or sprinkle it generously on top before baking for an extra cheesy experience.
Make sure to keep an eye on the casserole while it’s in the oven to prevent the cheese from burning.
To save time, you can use pre-cooked chicken, like rotisserie chicken, and frozen broccoli. This cuts down on prep time while still delivering a deliciously satisfying dish.
Just be sure to thaw the frozen broccoli before using it in the casserole to avoid excess moisture.
If you want to make this dish in advance, assemble the casserole and cover it tightly with foil. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours and bake it when ready to serve.
This makes it an excellent choice for meal prepping or preparing ahead for a busy week.
If you’re concerned about the casserole being too dry, add a bit more chicken broth or milk to the sauce mixture before baking. This ensures that it remains creamy and moist.
even after baking. You can also experiment with adding a little bit of cream cheese to the mixture for added richness.
To make sure the casserole is even more flavorful, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley.
Thyme, or rosemary to the dish before baking. These herbs will infuse the casserole with additional layers of flavor and freshness.
Conclusion
Broccoli, Rice, Chicken, and Cheese Casserole is a deliciously comforting dish that can be enjoyed by everyone.
Its simple ingredients come together to create a meal that’s satisfying, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a special gathering, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and gooey cheese, this casserole will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Plus, with all the ways you can customize it, you can make it your own and add personal touches to suit your preferences.