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Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole
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A quick and creamy Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole that brings together tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, fresh broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese in a comforting one-pan bake. Perfect for easy weeknight dinners, this dish is hearty, flavorful, kid-friendly, and customizable to suit various tastes and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 to 1½ cups cooked and shredded chicken breast or thighs

Base

  • 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (preferably day-old)

Vegetables

  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 small onion, minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy and Sauce

  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or chicken soup
  • ½ to ¾ cup milk or cream
  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (reserve ¼ cup for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional herbs or seasonings (e.g., paprika, thyme)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Cook rice according to package instructions. Steam broccoli until tender-crisp to maintain its vibrant green color. Cook chicken by baking, boiling, or pan-searing until fully cooked, then shred or dice into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent to build a savory flavor base.
  3. Make the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the cream of mushroom or chicken soup along with milk or cream. Season with salt, pepper, and optional herbs. Heat mixture until smooth and slightly thickened.
  4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine cooked rice, steamed broccoli, shredded chicken, and the creamy sauce. Mix gently until evenly coated. Fold in shredded cheddar cheese, reserving some for topping.
  5. Bake the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle remaining cheese evenly on top. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  6. Let it Rest and Serve: Remove casserole from oven and allow it to rest for at least 5 minutes to set. Slice and serve with your choice of garnishes or side dishes.

Notes

  • Use day-old rice to avoid a mushy casserole texture.
  • Don’t overcook broccoli; keep it slightly crisp for the best contrast.
  • Mix different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda with cheddar for more flavor depth.
  • Taste the sauce before mixing to adjust seasonings and avoid over-salting.
  • Add crunchy toppings such as toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for texture.
  • Utilize cooked chicken leftovers to save preparation time.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli casserole, chicken casserole, cheesy casserole, weeknight dinner, one-pan meal, comfort food, gluten free casserole

Find it online: https://cherrycooks.com/broccoli-rice-cheese-and-chicken-casserole/