Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe

This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is a comforting and cheesy dish that’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal! Imagine tender rice, chunks of chicken, and vibrant broccoli florets, all coated in a creamy cheese sauce. This recipe is incredibly easy to make, ready in just 45 minutes, and a great way to use up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy and Cheesy: This casserole is incredibly simple to assemble, making it a great option for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time. The generous amount of cheese adds a creamy and comforting touch.
  • Family-Friendly: This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even for picky eaters. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables.
  • Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients, this casserole is a great option for a budget-conscious meal.
  • Versatile: Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables, cheeses, or protein.

Ingredients

  • Water: Used to cook the rice.
  • Instant rice: A convenient and quick-cooking option for this casserole.
  • Chunk chicken: Use canned chicken or leftover cooked chicken for convenience.
  • Frozen chopped broccoli: Adds a healthy and flavorful vegetable component.
  • Processed cheese food: Creates a creamy and cheesy sauce.
  • Cream of mushroom soup and cream of chicken soup: Adds a creamy base and enhances the flavor.
  • Milk: Helps to create a smooth sauce.
  • Butter: Adds richness and flavor.
  • White onion: Provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Cook Rice

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Stir in the instant rice, cover, and remove from heat. Let stand for 5 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the cooked rice, drained chicken, frozen broccoli, cubed processed cheese, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, milk, butter, and chopped onion. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Bake and Serve

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Stir halfway through cooking to help the cheese melt evenly. Remove from the oven and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

  • Use cooked chicken: Save time by using leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken.
  • Thaw the broccoli: If you have time, thaw the frozen broccoli before adding it to the casserole to prevent excess moisture.
  • Add extra vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the casserole, such as diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or frozen peas.
  • Customize the cheese: Use your favorite type of cheese or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.

How to Serve

Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe

This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is a satisfying meal on its own, but here are some serving suggestions:

  • Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
  • Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread is perfect for sopping up the extra sauce.
  • Fruit Salad: A side of fruit salad adds a touch of sweetness and freshness.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is great for making ahead of time or storing leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular rice instead of instant rice? Yes, you can! Cook the regular rice according to package directions before adding it to the casserole.

2. Can I make this casserole with a different protein? Absolutely! Ground beef, turkey, or even tofu would be delicious substitutes for chicken.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can! Try cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.

4. Can I add other seasonings to the casserole? Definitely! Garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of red pepper flakes would be delicious additions.

This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its easy preparation and versatile ingredients, it’s sure to become a new family favorite!

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Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe

Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe

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  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Bake, Casserole
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is a comforting and cheesy dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight! Tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant broccoli florets are combined with a creamy sauce and baked to perfection. It’s a simple and satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 cups uncooked instant rice
  • 2 (10 ounce) cans chunk chicken, drained
  • 1 (16 ounce) package frozen chopped broccoli
  • 1 pound processed cheese food, cubed (such as Velveeta)
  • 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup butter, cubed
  • 1 small white onion, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Cook Rice: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring water to a boil in a saucepan. Stir in instant rice, cover, and remove from heat. Let stand for 5 minutes.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine cooked rice, chicken, broccoli, processed cheese, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, milk, butter, and onion. Mix well.
  3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Stir halfway through to ensure even melting.

Notes

  • You can use fresh broccoli florets instead of frozen, but blanch them before adding to the casserole.
  • If you don’t have processed cheese food, you can substitute with shredded cheddar cheese or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
  • For a richer flavor, use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 1000mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

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