Creamy Dreamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Recipe Introduction

Fancy a bit of comfort? Have you ever craved something warm, cheesy, and utterly satisfying? This chicken & broccoli rice casserole recipe is just the ticket.

Honestly, it’s like a warm hug in a dish, perfect for a chilly evening.

Quick Hook

This chicken & broccoli rice casserole isn't just any casserole; it's a cheesy dream. It's packed with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and fluffy rice all swimming in a ridiculously creamy sauce.

The flavors are pure comfort.

Brief Overview

Chicken casserole with broccoli has its roots firmly planted in mid-century American kitchens. It was all about convenience back then, right? This version skips the canned soup shortcuts and uses fresh ingredients.

It's an easy broccoli and rice casserole to whip up. It takes about an hour, and serves 6 hungry people.

Main Benefits

One of the best things about this healthy chicken broccoli rice casserole is that it's actually quite balanced. The protein from the chicken keeps you full.

The broccoli adds a dose of vitamins. This is perfect for a family dinner. It's also special because you can customize it with different cheeses or toppings, making it truly your own.

Now, let's talk ingredients, yeah?

Getting Your Kit On! - Chicken, Broccoli and Rice

Alright, to make this Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Bake , you'll need a few bits and bobs. Don't worry, nothing too fancy!

Rice Business

First, you need the rice. Grab 1 cup of uncooked long grain rice, something like basmati or jasmine. Add 2 cups of chicken broth, it will need a little olive oil, about 1 tbsp.

A little pinch of salt and pepper brings it all together.

Chicken and Broccoli

For the main event, you'll need about 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes. Don’t forget 1 large head of broccoli, chopped into florets.

Now for the flavour party a couple of tbsp of olive oil, 1 tsp of garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp of onion powder.

Obvs salt and pepper to taste.

Secret Sauce! - Say Goodbye to Canned Soups!

Honestly, the sauce is where the magic happens. Start with 1/2 cup of unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour.

Then, pour in 3 cups of whole milk. A teaspoon of Dijon mustard and 1/2 tsp of ground nutmeg take it to another level.

Grab 8 oz of softened cream cheese and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese for a cheeky twist. Finally, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to finish.

Top It Off! - Ritz Crackers who?

Fancy a bit of crunch? For the topping, 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs and 2 tbsp of melted butter are your friends.

Now, don't go getting stingy on the cheddar and the parmesan... and feel free to pimp up the breadcrumbs with some herbs, maybe a little garlic! A sprinkle of paprika goes a long way too.

..

Ready to get cooking?

Ingredients & Equipment for a Top-Notch Casserole

Alright, mate! Let's dive into what you'll need to whip up this belter of a chicken & broccoli rice casserole .

Trust me, it's easier than brewing a cuppa! Getting the ingredients right is half the battle, so pay attention!

Main Ingredients: The Star Players

Here's what you need to create the ultimate creamy chicken broccoli rice bake . Measurements are both US and metric, because we're inclusive like that.

• Rice: 1 cup (200g) long grain rice (basmati or jasmine works a treat)
• Broth: 2 cups (480ml) low-sodium chicken broth
• Chicken: 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed. You want fresh, plump chicken. Avoid the stuff that looks a bit grey.
• Broccoli: 1 large head (about 4 cups/400g), cut into florets. Honestly, the fresher the better. Look for a vibrant green colour.
• Olive Oil: 1 tbsp (15ml) for the rice, 2 tbsp (30ml) for the chicken and broccoli.
• Butter: 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter
• Flour: 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
• Milk: 3 cups (720ml) whole milk. Gives you the creamiest result.
• Cream Cheese: 8 oz (227g) , softened. Don't skip softening, it makes it easier to work with.
• Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups (200g) , shredded. Mature cheddar is best for flavour!
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup (50g) , grated, divided.
• Panko Breadcrumbs (optional): 1/2 cup (50g)

Seasoning Notes: Adding the Magic

Seasoning is what takes this chicken casserole with broccoli from good to oh my gosh! status. It's a dance of flavors, not just salt and pepper, alright?

• Garlic Powder: 1 tsp (5g)
• Onion Powder: 1/2 tsp (2.5g)
• Dijon Mustard: 1 tsp (5g) . Adds a bit of tang.
• Ground Nutmeg: 1/2 tsp (2.5g) . You might think it odd, but it works beautifully.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste, of course.

Want a bit of a kick? Chuck in a pinch of red pepper flakes. No Dijon? A bit of English mustard will do in a pinch.

Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple

No need for fancy gadgets here, just the basics for your easy broccoli and rice casserole .

• 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish . Get a nice one, you'll use it again.
• Large saucepan . For cooking the rice.
• Large skillet . For the chicken and broccoli.
• Whisk . Gets that sauce nice and smooth.
• Measuring cups and spoons. Don't be guessing amounts, yeah?

Don't have a skillet? A large frying pan will do. No whisk? A fork will work, but be prepared for a bit more elbow grease.

You can even make it a make-ahead chicken broccoli rice casserole , just assemble and then bake.

Cooking Method: Creamy Dreamy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Casserole

Honestly, who doesn't love a good casserole? This Chicken & Broccoli Rice Casserole is proper comfort food. This is not your nan's gloopy casserole with a tin of soup.

We are ditching that! Think fresh, flavourful and blooming delicious.

Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row

Essential mise en place is key. Chop your broccoli into florets. Cube the chicken. Measure out your spices. Honestly, having everything prepped before you start cooking makes life so much easier.

Sort yourself out and get organized!

Time saving tip? Cook the rice a day ahead. Or buy pre-cooked rice! Why not. Safety reminder: always wash your hands. Handling raw chicken is a big deal.

step-by-step Process: Let's Get Cooking

1. Cook the rice. In a saucepan, bung in 1 cup (200g) rice, 2 cups (480ml) chicken broth, 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil.

   Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 18- 20 minutes . Fluff it up with a fork.

2. Sizzle the chicken and broccoli. Heat 2 tbsp (30ml) of oil in a large pan. Add 1.5 lbs (680g) cubed chicken.

   Season with 1 tsp (5g) garlic powder, 1/2 tsp (2.5g) onion powder, salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is cooked through.

   Then add 4 cups (400g) broccoli florets and cook until tender crisp.

3. Make a banging cream sauce. Melt 1/2 cup (113g) butter. Whisk in 1/2 cup (60g) flour and cook for 1- 2 minutes .

   Slowly whisk in 3 cups (720ml) milk. Simmer for 5 minutes , until it's nice and thick.

4. Flavour bomb time!. Stir in 1 tsp (5g) Dijon mustard, 1/2 tsp (2.5g) nutmeg, and 8 oz (227g) cream cheese until smooth.

   Then stir in 2 cups (200g) cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup (50g) Parmesan cheese.

5. Layer it all up. Spread the rice into a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish. Top with the chicken and broccoli.

   Pour over that amazing cheese sauce. Ensure everything is covered in that sauce.

6. Bake until golden. Bake at 350° F ( 175° C) for 20- 25 minutes . Sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese at the end.

7. Let the Easy Broccoli And Rice Casserole cool, because you don´t want to burn your mouth. Let it rest for 5- 10 minutes .

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Casserole Game

Don't overcook the broccoli. No one wants soggy broccoli! Grate your own cheese. It melts better. If you are planning to make-ahead Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole , save the panko for the last minute.

It will stay crunchy!. This Chicken Casserole With Broccoli is the best!

So there you have it! This Healthy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is proper lush! It's really easy to do.

Alright, mate, let's dive into some extra bits and bobs for this killer chicken & broccoli rice casserole . These are all those extra bits that can take your dish from good to "Oh my gosh, where did you learn to cook like that ?".

Recipe Notes: Level Up Your Casserole Game

Serving Suggestions: Presentation is Key, innit?

Right, you've slaved away making this beautiful chicken & broccoli rice casserole . Don't just plonk it on the table! Think about presentation.

A sprinkle of fresh parsley can add a pop of colour. Consider plating individual portions with a side salad for a balanced meal.

For drinks, a crisp glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully. Or, if you're keeping it casual, a pint of your favorite lager will do the trick.

Garlic bread is a must, honestly! Perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce.

Storage Tips: Keeping it Fresh

Got leftover chicken & broccoli rice casserole ? Lucky you! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It's perfect for a quick lunch.

Freezing works too! Divide the casserole into individual portions before freezing. This way, you can just grab one when you need a make-ahead chicken broccoli rice casserole fix.

To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350° F ( 175° C) until heated through. Honestly, it tastes just as good the second time around.

Variations: Getting Creative in the Kitchen

Fancy a twist? This chicken & broccoli rice casserole with cheddar cheese is divine as it is, but why not experiment?

For a healthy chicken broccoli rice casserole , try using brown rice instead of white. You could swap out some of the cheese for extra veggies.

If you're gluten-free, use gluten-free flour for the sauce, easy peasy! And let's be honest, throwing in some cooked ham bits when you prepare the chicken casserole with broccoli takes it to another level

If you're thinking about a Chicken and Broccoli Rice Casserole with Ritz Crackers , just crush the crackers and sprinkle them over the top before baking trust me, it's a winner.

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite

This chicken & broccoli rice casserole isn't just delicious; it's got some goodness in it too. It's packed with protein from the chicken and vitamins from the broccoli.

Just a heads up, it's also fairly high in calories and fat, so enjoy in moderation.

Each serving has roughly 550-650 calories, but the nutritional value does go up, because you get protein, fibre, and complex carbohydrates for your daily recommended values.

So there you have it! With these notes, you're well on your way to making the ultimate chicken & broccoli rice casserole .

Don't be afraid to get creative and make it your own. Now, go get cooking!