Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever crave something warm, cheesy, and utterly comforting? This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is it! Honestly, this cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole is like a hug in a dish, with a flavour profile that hits all the right notes.

Brief Overview

This Broccoli Rice Casserole is a beloved classic, probably originating from 1950s America, offering a hearty and fuss free dinner solution.

It's beginner friendly. Expect 50 minutes, start to finish. The recipe yields 6 satisfying servings.

Main Benefits

This recipe is packed with protein from the chicken and calcium from the cheese. It is the perfect family dinner idea for a busy weeknight.

What makes it truly special is how easily adaptable it is to your tastes and what you have on hand.

Why This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Is My Go-To Comfort Food

Okay, so here's the thing: Comfort food casserole means different things to different people, right? This recipe reminds me of my childhood, as it is easy and fast.

This creamy casserole recipe is a guaranteed crowd pleaser.

This recipe is so easy to throw together after a long day at work. It requires minimal effort, but delivers maximum satisfaction. Talk about a win-win.

A Little History and A Lotta Flavor

Although simple, this dish has its roots in classic American home cooking. Think potlucks, family gatherings, and that feeling of pure, unadulterated comfort.

My mum has always told me it is great, and as she is a woman of wisdom, i always follow the advice of my mum.

Easy and Adaptable: The Beauty of This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli

One of the best things about this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli is how easily you can customize it. Don't have broccoli? Use peas! Want more cheese? Go wild! It is the beauty of Easy chicken casserole recipes .

Ingredients That Make This Casserole Shine

We're talking about butter, onion, garlic, chicken, rice, chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, seasoning and cheddar cheese.

Feel free to adapt the ingredients depending on your preference. For instance, i am a bit lactose intolerant so i use Lactofree products.

Alright, let's dive into what you'll need to make this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole magic happen. I'm all about keeping things simple, so we're focusing on essentials.

This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is pure comfort food, and it starts with great ingredients.

Ingredients & Equipment: Setting You Up for Success!

This Broccoli Rice Casserole recipe is one of those easy chicken casserole recipes that you can whip up with just a few key items.

Before we begin, I always double check I have every single ingredient in hand. Have you ever started cooking and realised you're missing something? It's the worst, right? I've been there, done that!

Main Ingredients

Okay, first things first, the stars of our show.

• Unsalted Butter: 2 tablespoons (30 ml) . Look for good quality butter!
• Yellow Onion: 1 medium , chopped (about 1 cup / 150g ). Don't skimp on this!
• Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. Fresh is best, but jarred works too.
• Cooked Chicken: 4 cups (950 ml) , shredded or diced (about 2 large chicken breasts). Honestly, leftover roast chicken is amazing in this. It adds so much flavour!
• Broccoli Florets: 2 cups (300g) , fresh or frozen. If frozen, thaw and drain first. Nobody likes a watery casserole!
• Cooked Long Grain Rice: 3 cups (600g) . Day-old rice works really well here helps avoid mushiness.
• Chicken Broth: 2 cups (470 ml) . Low-sodium is always a good idea!
• Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 (10.75 ounce / 305g) can . I know some people side eye this, but it makes the casserole so creamy and easy.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: 1/2 cup (120 ml) . I often use Greek yogurt because I always have it on hand.
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (3g) , or to taste. Seasoning is key, my friend!
• Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1g) , or to taste.
• Garlic Powder: 1/4 teaspoon (1g) .
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1/2 cup (55g) , plus more for topping (optional). Cheese makes everything better, you know?
• Crushed Ritz Crackers (Optional): 1/2 cup (55g) .
• Melted Butter (Optional): 2 tablespoons (30ml) .

Seasoning Notes: Flavor Boosters!

Let's talk flavor! For this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli , the key is balance.

• Essential Spice Combinations : Salt, pepper, and garlic powder are non-negotiable.
• Flavor Enhancers and Aromatics : The garlic is essential, and the cream of mushroom soup adds depth.
• Quick Substitution Options : If you don't have garlic powder, use onion powder. Add a dash of paprika for color!

Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple

You don't need fancy gadgets to make this Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole .

• Essential Tools : 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish, large skillet, mixing bowls.
• Common Household Alternatives : No skillet? A large pot will work. Don't have measuring cups? Eyeball it! It's comfort food casserole , not rocket science!

Remember, this recipe is flexible. Don't be afraid to tweak it to your liking! Now go make this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole and enjoy! This is definitely one of my favourite family dinner ideas !

Cooking Method: Baking the Perfect Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Honestly, who doesn't love a good casserole? Especially when it's a Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole . It's total comfort food. Let's dive into baking this classic dish!

Prep Like a Pro for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

First, the mise en place is key. Chop your onion and mince the garlic. Shred that cooked chicken! Thaw and drain your broccoli if it's frozen.

Having everything ready will save you loads of time. It will make this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole a breeze.

Remember, always wash your hands before you start!

Baking Brilliance: step-by-step for the Best Casserole Ever

1. Preheat your oven to 350° F ( 175° C) . Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This prevents sticking.
2. Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion until softened. Add the garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute .
3. In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken, broccoli, rice, chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and 1/2 cup cheddar cheese. Mix it well!.
4. Pour this Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole mixture into your baking dish.
5. Optional, but highly recommended: Mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle over the casserole. Add extra cheese if you want!
6. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes , or until bubbly and golden brown.
7. Let it rest for 5- 10 minutes before serving. Patience is a virtue!

Pro Tips for Amazing Broccoli Rice Casserole

Want next level Cheesy Chicken Broccoli ? Try these:

• Don't overcook the broccoli. Mushy broccoli ruins everything.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning before baking. Salt is your friend. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds heat.
• Make it ahead! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it. Add the topping right before baking.

Avoid these common mistakes. Make sure to get this perfect Easy chicken casserole recipes . You can even swap the chicken for turkey! This Comfort food casserole will become a family favorite.

Get ready for a simple One-dish chicken dinner . This creamy texture from a Creamy casserole recipe will steal everyone's heart.

Enjoy this Family dinner ideas .

Recipe Notes for Your Dreamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Alright, so you're about to dive into making this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole . Awesome! I have some extra notes for you to make it even better.

Honestly, I've made this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole a gazillion times and learned a few tricks along the way!

Serving it Up Right: Plating and Sidekicks

Okay, presentation matters. First, let your Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole cool a little before serving. A perfect slice onto a plate and a sprig of parsley adds that chef's kiss .

This is total comfort food casserole , right? Think sides that are light and fresh. A crisp green salad with a vinaigrette is perfect.

Steamed green beans or asparagus also work. And hey, garlic bread or dinner rolls never hurt anyone! If you want to wow, how about a light white wine? It complements the creamy casserole nicely.

Storing: Keeping the Goodness Fresh

Right, leftovers. If you have any (doubtful!), let the Broccoli Rice Casserole cool completely. Then, pop it in an airtight container.

It'll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freezing? Totally an option! Wrap it well in freezer safe wrap, or portion it out.

It'll last for up to 2 months. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge. Then bake it at 350° F ( 175° C) until heated through.

You can also microwave it, but baking keeps it creamy and cheesy.

Switching it Up: Adaptations and Seasonal Fun

Want to change things up? Go wild!. For a dietary adaptation , you could swap the regular cream of mushroom soup for a low-sodium or gluten-free version.

Easy peasy. Swap in brown rice to make it more healthier. I once used quinoa (don't tell anyone!). Also, try adding different veggies depending on the season.

In the fall, butternut squash or sweet potatoes would be amazing. In spring, asparagus would be great. This creamy casserole recipe is so adaptable!

Nutrition Nutshell: The Basics

This one-dish chicken dinner is packed with protein from the chicken. The broccoli brings in vitamins and fiber. Rice has carbohydrates for energy.

Honestly, it's a balanced meal. Of course, cheese adds calories, but it tastes so good! Just keep portions reasonable. Each serving is around 450 calories.

With 30 grams of protein, 20 grams of fat and 35 grams of carbs. I am not going to lie, the exact nutrition stats always depend on the ingredients.

And, of course, it's all an estimate, right?.

So there you have it! All the extra tips and tricks you need to make an amazing Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole .

Don't overthink it. Just have fun, and enjoy the process of making this delicious easy chicken casserole recipes . This is one of those family dinner ideas that’s always a winner.

You got this!