Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Bliss Casserole
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever crave something ridiculously comforting? This chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole is pure cheesy, creamy deliciousness. It's so good; honestly, it’s borderline addictive.
Brief Overview
This casserole is total American comfort food. It’s easy as pie to make, taking around 50 minutes total. This recipe serves 6-8 people, perfect for family dinners.
Main Benefits
This chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole recipe is packed with protein. It's amazing for a potluck, or a comforting weeknight meal.
The creamy, cheesy sauce and tender chicken make it a winner. What's not to love?
Why You Need This "Clucking Good" Casserole in Your Life
Alright, let's dive into this cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole ! Honestly, this isn't just dinner; it's a hug in a dish.
Think creamy, cheesy goodness, tender chicken, and those little green florets giving you a tiny bit of health points.
This recipe is one of those trusty go-to's when you need some serious comfort. I’m talking proper comfort food casserole material.
Maybe you’re having a bad day, need something that’ll please a crowd or just crave a classic, easy chicken casserole recipe .
Whatever the reason, this dish delivers!
One of the best parts? It is a great way to use leftover rotisserie chicken! Talk about a weeknight win.
You can even prep this make-ahead chicken casserole the night before. Pop it in the oven when you get home from work.
Boom! Dinner is served. It's honestly a lifesaver.
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Cooking!
Alright, let's dive into this "clucking good" casserole! The secret to a truly killer chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole is, without a doubt, using quality ingredients.
Think about it: garbage in, garbage out. That being said, we are after the easy chicken casserole recipe so we are not spending hours in the kitchen!
Main Ingredients: The Heart of the Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy chicken broccoli rice casserole . I always try to plan my cooking in advance.
- Cooked Chicken: 2 cups (400g) , diced. Rotisserie chicken? Winner, winner, chicken dinner. It's a total lifesaver when you're short on time and honestly it is great for the rotisserie chicken casserole . If you are cooking chicken yourself, just make sure it’s cooked through to an internal temperature of 165° F ( 74° C) .
- Cooked Rice: 2 cups (350g) . Long grain is best, but honestly, use whatever you've got. Brown rice works if you want to be healthy ish.
- Broccoli Florets: 2 cups (225g) fresh, or 20 ounces (567g) frozen (thawed). Fresh is fantastic when its available in the market and its affordable. Frozen is fine and works for
broccoli cheese casserole chicken rice ! - Onion: 1 medium, chopped ( about 1 cup/150g ).
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml) .
For the cheese sauce:
- Unsalted Butter: 4 tablespoons (56g) .
- All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup (30g) .
- Milk: 3 cups (720ml) . Whole milk or 2% gives the best flavor.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 3 cups (300g) . Sharp or medium. I personally prefer sharp extra cheese flavor.
Optional Topping:
- Bread Crumbs: 1/2 cup (50g) . Panko or regular will work.
- Melted Butter: 2 tablespoons (28g) .
Seasoning Notes: Flavor Boosters
Let's talk seasonings. I like a little flavour in my chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole . Here are some tips to bear in mind:
- Salt & Pepper: Essential. Adjust to your taste, but I usually go with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper for the casserole base.
- Nutmeg: A pinch of ground nutmeg ( 1/4 teaspoon ) in the cheese sauce adds a lovely warmth. Trust me on this!
- Flavor Enhancers: A dash of garlic powder or onion powder can give it a nice boost.
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
For this cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole , you really don't need much fancy kit. We are going for
- Large Skillet or Pot: For cooking the onion and making the cheese sauce.
- 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) Baking Dish : This is the sweet spot for a good casserole to make a
chicken and rice bake with broccoli and cheese . - Whisk: For making that luscious cheese sauce.
- Mixing Bowls: For combining everything.
Now, if you don't have all that fancy schmancy equipment, don't worry! A regular saucepan and a smaller baking dish will do in a pinch.
The most important thing is to have fun and get that chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole recipe on the table! And if you make-ahead chicken casserole , then it's even easier on the day!
Alright, Let's Make Some Magic: Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Oh my gosh, who doesn't love a good comfort food casserole ? And this cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole recipe, my friends, is the ultimate hug in a dish.
Trust me, it's a winner. I've been making variations of this for years, ever since my student days. Honestly, it's a lifesaver when you need something hearty and satisfying.
Let's dive into this "clucking good" casserole! Here are some that should have your site ranking higher than a blue ribbon winning hen at the county fair.
Prep Steps for Casserole Domination
First, the boring but essential stuff! Mise en place , darlings! Get your 2 cups (400g) of cooked chicken diced.
Rotisserie chicken is a HUGE time saver. Cook 2 cups (350g) of rice brown or white, your call. Chop up 2 cups (225g) of fresh broccoli or thaw out a 20 ounces (567g) bag of frozen florets.
Dice 1 medium onion. Now, that's organization! Safety wise, remember to wash your hands before and after handling raw chicken, even if it's already cooked.
You know? Better safe than sorry.
From Humble Ingredients to Casserole Glory
Here's how we transform simple bits into a cheesy masterpiece:
- Heat the oven to 375° F ( 190° C) . Don't forget or you'll be waiting forever!
- Sauté 1 cup (150g) chopped onion in 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil until soft. About 5 minutes.
- Make the cheese sauce: Melt 4 tablespoons (56g) butter, whisk in 1/4 cup (30g) flour, then gradually whisk in 3 cups (720ml) milk. Cook until thickened. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, then melt in 3 cups (300g) cheddar. The sauce should be smooth and dreamy.
- Combine everything: Mix the chicken, rice, broccoli, and onions in a big bowl.
- Pour in the cheese: Stir in that glorious cheese sauce.
- Into the dish: Pour the mix into a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Breadcrumb time (optional): Mix 1/2 cup (50g) bread crumbs with 2 tablespoons (28g) melted butter and sprinkle on top.
- Bake for 25- 30 minutes , or until bubbly and golden. Let it cool slightly before serving nobody wants a burnt tongue!
Pro Tips for Casserole Greatness
Want to take your chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole game to the next level? Always shred your own cheese. Pre-shredded stuff has additives and doesn't melt as well.
Trust me on this one! Another tip, slightly undercook the broccoli because it's gonna keep cooking in the oven. Common mistake? Overbaking the casserole.
Keep an eye on it and don't let it get too dry. And here's a make-ahead option: assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This creamy chicken broccoli rice casserole is the answer for a quick and amazing meal.
Recipe Notes: Level Up Your Casserole Game
Alright, let's dive into this cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole experience! I reckon this section will give you that extra oomph to create a comfort food casserole that is the best the world has ever seen.
These are my secrets.
Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro
Presentation matters, yeah? I mean, who doesn't eat with their eyes first? For this chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole recipe , a sprinkle of fresh parsley goes a long way.
I sometimes like to swirl a bit of sriracha mayo on top for a fancy touch. Serve it with a crisp green salad to cut through the richness, or maybe some garlic bread for a classic pairing.
Oh, and a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio? Chef's kiss! You know? It elevates the whole creamy chicken broccoli rice casserole experience.
Storage Tips: Keepin' It Fresh
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This make-ahead chicken casserole can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Just pop it in an airtight container. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350° F ( 175° C) until heated through.
Freezing this bad boy is also an option. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. It'll keep for about 2 months.
Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations: Switch It Up!
Feeling adventurous? Let's talk variations. For a low-carb version, swap the rice for cauliflower rice. It is a healthy choice.
For a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole . You can replace long grain rice for quinoa also, that has a plus value of fibers.
You can also use Rotisserie chicken casserole to simplify the recipe.
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite
Okay, let's keep it real. This chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole isn't exactly a health food, but it does offer some good stuff.
You get protein from the chicken, fiber from the broccoli, and calcium from the cheese. Broccoli also has a lot of good vitamins.
It's all about balance, right? Enjoy a reasonable portion and savor every bite! It falls squarely into the category of the chicken and rice bake with broccoli and cheese comfort meals we need every now and then.
I’ve experimented with using different cheeses, and honestly, that's one thing that can make or break the recipe. Oh my gosh, I remember one time I tried using some fancy pants cheese my sister bought.
Not great! You are better of using Chicken broccoli rice casserole with cheddar cheese recipe.
Broccoli cheese casserole chicken rice is a good choice. I love how versatile and flexible it is, a total classic.
Seriously, easy chicken casserole recipe is so easy anyone can cook it! You've got this! Enjoy making your clucking good casserole.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole is a great make-ahead meal. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
You might need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge, just keep an eye on it like you're watching Bake Off!
What can I substitute for the cheese in this chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole recipe?
Cheddar is a classic, but feel free to experiment! Gruyere adds a nutty flavor, Monterey Jack is mild and creamy, and a blend of cheeses (like cheddar and mozzarella) works great too.
If you're feeling adventurous, a little bit of smoked Gouda can add a real depth of flavor, but remember, moderation is key you don't want it overpowering the other ingredients!
How do I store leftover chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole?
Leftover chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave, oven (covered with foil to prevent drying), or even in a skillet on the stovetop.
Just make sure it's heated through before serving, nobody wants a chilly surprise!
Can I use frozen broccoli for the chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole?
Yes, frozen broccoli works perfectly well in this chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole! Just be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the casserole. This will prevent the casserole from becoming watery and ensure that the broccoli cooks evenly.
Nobody likes a soggy bottom, as they say on Bake Off!
Is there a vegetarian option for this chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole recipe?
Definitely! Simply omit the chicken and add more broccoli or other vegetables like cauliflower, mushrooms, or bell peppers. You could even add a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans for extra protein.
It's a super versatile dish that can easily be adapted to suit your dietary needs, much like adapting to a soggy Yorkshire pudding think on your feet!
How can I make the cheese sauce for the chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole smoother and avoid lumps?
A smooth cheese sauce is all about technique. Whisk the flour and melted butter together thoroughly to create a roux, and cook it for a minute to get rid of the floury taste. Then, gradually whisk in warm (not cold!) milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
Using pre-shredded cheese can prevent the sauce from melting smoothly, so shred your own. If lumps do form, try using an immersion blender to smooth things out. It's like a magic wand for your cheese sauce!
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Bliss Casserole
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450-550 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25-35g |
| Fiber | 30-40g |
