Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole – Experience the embrace of our Creamy Broccoli, Rice, Cheese and Chicken Casserole. This delightful main dish brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, vibrant broccoli, and a rich blend of soups all layered with melted Cheddar cheese. With a bit of preparation and a touch of love, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
Every time I make this casserole it floods my mind with memories. The first time I cooked it the enticing smells wafting through the kitchen brought a sense of warmth that I knew would soon fill our family table. When the cheesy goodness blended into the tender chicken and rice it became a hit, with my husband and child. Their faces lit up with each delicious bite making it a regular request at our meals.
What makes this Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole truly captivating?
Experience the captivating combination of flavors in our Creamy Broccoli, Rice, Cheese and Chicken Casserole. Seamlessly merging the creaminess of chicken and mushroom soups, with the heartiness of chicken and fluffy rice this masterpiece not only satisfies but also comforts the soul. Bursting with broccoli embraced by golden melted Cheddar cheese on top—each bite offers a balance of comfort and nourishment. This casserole has the power to turn evenings into special culinary celebrations bringing warmth and a sense of family togetherness. It’s so easy to prepare that you’ll find yourself going back for seconds creating memories along the way.
What You Need To Make This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe?
Uncooked Rice: For the rice, you’ll need 2 cups. Long-grain white rice works best because it fluffs up nicely and absorbs the goodness of the casserole. If you prefer a heartier texture you can substitute it with brown rice for a wholesome option.
Cream of Chicken and Mushroom Soups: To create the velvety base of this casserole combine cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soups. These canned soups bring a comforting creaminess and depth of flavor to the dish. If you want to add a homemade touch you can try making your cream soups using simple pantry ingredients.
Cooked Chicken: To make the casserole more savory add 2 cups of shredded chicken. You can use leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken or poached chicken breasts. Make sure to season the chicken for an overall taste.
Butter: For added mouthfeel and flavor incorporate ¼ cup of butter into the casserole. Using unsalted butter is recommended to control saltiness since the canned soups already have some sodium content.
Cheese: The recipe calls for 2 cups of Cheddar cheese which adds both creaminess and a delightful tang, to the dish. Feel free to explore other types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, Colby or a blend of your favorites. Grating the cheese by hand ensures a fresher flavor and better melting capabilities.
Onion: The small white onion adds an essential layer of taste, to the casserole. Finely chop the onion to ensure it blends harmoniously with the ingredients.
Broccoli: The 16 ounces of broccoli pieces bring color and healthy nutrients to the dish. You can use either broccoli florets or frozen ones. Make sure they are thawed and well-drained before adding them.
Milk: By adding 1 cup of milk, the creaminess of the casserole is further enhanced. For the best result opt for whole milk or choose a lower fat option if you prefer a lighter touch.
Steps To Make Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Step 2: Follow the instructions, on the rice package to cook it perfectly. Fluff it gently ensuring that every grain reaches its potential.
Step 3: In a baking pan measuring 9×13 inches combine the cooked rice and shredded chicken. Add the cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soups, butter, chopped onion, and vibrant pieces of broccoli. Give everything a stir making sure all the ingredients mingle harmoniously.
Step 4: As you admire the blend of colors and textures sprinkle one cup of shredded Cheddar cheese over the mixture.
Step 5: Place your creation in the oven. Bake for approximately 30 to 35 minutes. During this time the casserole will transform slowly as all the flavors come together in harmony.
Step 6: In the last couple minutes of baking sprinkle the remaining Cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Watch with delight as it melts into a blanket of deliciousness.
Step 7: When you hear a ding sound from your timer your casserole is ready. Allow it to cool for 5 minutes so that all those wonderful flavors settle and anticipation builds.
Step 8: Serve portions alongside a refreshing dinner salad or some freshly baked breadsticks. This combination is truly heavenly, in terms of delights.
Tip:
To add an element of texture and taste you might want to think about sprinkling a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese over the top of your Creamy Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole during the few minutes of baking. This easy extra step not only creates a contrast, to the creamy elements but also gives a satisfying crunch that will take your casserole to another level of culinary enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Of course! You can definitely use brown rice instead of white rice. Just remember to make any adjustments, to the cooking time.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! You can freeze the leftovers without any issues. To do so divide the casserole into portions wrap them tightly and store them for a convenient and delicious meal.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Certainly! You have the freedom to add vegetables to the casserole according to your preferences. Feel free to experiment and customize it with your veggies. Just make sure they are cooked and ready, before assembling everything.
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<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
- 480 ml 2 cups water
- 190 g 2 cups uncooked rice
- 1 can 10 ounces cream of chicken soup
- 1 can 10 ounces cream of mushroom soup
- 360 g 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 60 g ¼ cup butter
- 240 ml 1 cup milk
- 1 small white onion finely chopped
- 450 g 16 ounces broccoli florets, blanched
- 225 g 2 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook 2 cups of rice according to the instructions, on the package.
- In a baking pan measuring 9x13 combine the rice with 2 cups of chicken, one can each of cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soup, melted butter (about ¼ cup), a cup of milk, finely chopped small white onion and blanched broccoli florets weighing around 16 ounces. Stir in one cup of Cheddar cheese.
- Place the baking pan in the oven. Bake for approximately 30 to 35 minutes.
- Adding Cheesy Finish. During the last few minutes of baking sprinkle the remaining shredded Cheddar cheese on top and let it melt.
- Out of the oven allow the casserole to rest for five minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Broccoli, Rice, Cheese and Chicken Casserole alongside a side salad or some breadsticks.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
2 Responses
This is a good, hearty dish and the frozen leftovers will make nice, quick meals when i don’t want to cook. We added garlic salt to our portions. I lined the baking pan with parchment paper which made clean up a breeze.
Looks delicious