Craving a warm, comforting, and satisfying meal that the whole family will love? Look no further than this classic Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Rice Casserole! This dish combines tender chicken, wholesome broccoli, and fluffy rice in a rich and creamy cheese sauce, all baked to golden perfection. It’s the epitome of easy comfort food, and this guide will help you make the ultimate Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Rice Casserole in your own kitchen. If you’re a fan of easy casserole recipes, you might also enjoy our article on [Placeholder for Link to a “Easy Casserole Recipes for Weeknights” Blog Post].
Ingredients You’ll Need
Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown for extra fiber)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or homemade substitute)
- ½ cup milk (or unsweetened almond milk)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for crunch
- Extra cheese for gooey goodness
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Ingredients
- Cook rice according to package instructions.
- Steam broccoli until tender-crisp (about 3-4 minutes).
- Shred or dice cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!).
2. Mix Everything Together
In a large bowl, combine:
- Cooked rice
- Chicken
- Broccoli
- Cream of chicken soup
- Milk
- 1 cup of shredded cheese
- Seasonings
💡 Pro Tip: For extra flavor, add a dash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce!
3. Bake to Perfection
- Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Top with remaining cheese (and optional breadcrumbs).
- Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
4. Serve & Enjoy!
Let it cool for 5 minutes, then dig in!
Nutritional Benefits (Comfort Food That’s Good for You!)
This casserole isn’t just delicious—it’s nutrient-dense:
- Chicken: High in lean protein for muscle repair (source: Healthline).
- Broccoli: Rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants (source: WebMD).
- Brown Rice Option: Adds extra fiber & B vitamins.
Perfect for a balanced weeknight dinner!
Serving & Storage Tips
🍽 Serve with: A fresh side salad or garlic bread.
📦 Store leftovers: In an airtight container for up to 3 days (reheats well!).
❄️ Freeze for later: Assemble (unbaked), wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Rice Casserole is the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition—creamy, cheesy, and packed with protein and veggies. It’s a guaranteed family favorite!
