Ah, the comforting embrace of a homemade casserole! There’s something so soothing about gathering around a hot, bubbling dish after a long day. It’s like a warm hug on a plate. One of my all-time favorites is the chicken rice broccoli casserole with Velveeta cheese. This dish brings back sweet memories of family dinners where the whole house smelled delightfully cheesy and savory. Trust me, once you pull this casserole out of the oven, your loved ones will come running! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, a nostalgic reminder of cozy nights spent together. Plus, this recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for anyone, even if you’re not an experienced cook. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a little bit of love, you’ll have a satisfying dinner that’s sure to please everyone at the table. So, let’s dive into this delightful chicken rice broccoli casserole with Velveeta and create some delicious memories together!
Ingredients List
To make this comforting chicken rice broccoli casserole with Velveeta, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that you might already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (leftover rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown, your choice!)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, just make sure to thaw if using frozen)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (this adds that creamy goodness you’ll love)
- 1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed (for that melty, gooey texture)
- 1/2 cup milk (to make it nice and creamy)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (adds a lovely flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (for depth of taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t forget to season!)
These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also a breeze to prepare. You can easily swap in your favorite veggies or even use a different type of cheese if you prefer. Just remember, the key is to keep it comforting and easy!
How to Prepare Chicken Rice Broccoli Casserole Velveeta
Now, let’s dive into the steps for making this delightful chicken rice broccoli casserole with Velveeta! It’s really quite simple, and I promise you’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time. Just follow along, and we’ll create a homey meal together!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures your casserole cooks evenly and reaches that perfect bubbly state. While the oven is warming up, you can get everything else ready!
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine your shredded cooked chicken, cooked rice, and broccoli florets. If you’re using fresh broccoli, make sure it’s cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. For those using frozen broccoli, just give it a quick thaw beforehand. This step is really about mixing and making sure everything is nicely distributed. You can use a large spoon or even your hands to gently toss everything together—just be careful not to squish the broccoli too much!
Step 3: Add Creamy Mixture
Next, it’s time to add the creamy goodness! Pour in the can of cream of chicken soup, along with the cubed Velveeta cheese and milk. This is where all that cheesy flavor comes from, so don’t skimp on the Velveeta! Sprinkle in your garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Now, mix everything together thoroughly; you want to make sure the cheese and soup coat all the ingredients evenly. If you notice any clumps of cheese, just break them up with your spoon as you stir. It should all blend into a luscious, creamy mixture!
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Once everything is well combined, pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly, and then pop it in the oven. Bake for about 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the cheese is melted to perfection. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving—this waiting time is the hardest part, but trust me, it’s worth it!
Tips for Success
Making the perfect chicken rice broccoli casserole with Velveeta is all about a few simple tips! First, feel free to use leftover chicken or even rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option. If you’re looking for a vegetarian twist, just swap out the chicken for extra broccoli and perhaps some mushrooms for added texture and flavor. Trust me, it’s still delicious!
Also, if you want a little crunch on top, consider sprinkling some breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking. It adds a lovely texture that complements the creamy filling. And don’t forget to taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning to your liking, especially the salt and pepper. Remember, cooking should be fun and satisfying, so make it your own!
Nutritional Information Section
When it comes to comfort food, it’s nice to know what you’re serving up! This chicken rice broccoli casserole with Velveeta is not only delicious but also packs a decent nutritional punch. Here’s a rough idea of what you can expect per serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 15g (Saturated Fat: 7g)
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Sugar: 2g
- Fiber: 2g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. It’s always a good idea to adjust according to your dietary needs. So enjoy this comforting dish, knowing it brings warmth and some nutrition to your table!
FAQ Section
Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! One of the great things about this chicken rice broccoli casserole with Velveeta is its versatility. You can swap in your favorite vegetables like peas, carrots, or even cauliflower. Just remember to cut them into small, even pieces for uniform cooking. If you’re feeling adventurous, a mix of veggies can add fun colors and flavors to the dish!
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Preparing this casserole ahead of time is a fantastic way to save yourself some hassle later. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking. If you want to freeze it, wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Just be sure to let it thaw in the fridge overnight before baking!
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheating leftovers is super easy! Just scoop out the portion you want and place it in a microwave-safe dish. Cover it loosely with a paper towel to keep it moist and microwave for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. If you prefer a crispy top, you can pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Enjoy your comforting dish all over again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultimate Comfort Food: This chicken rice broccoli casserole with Velveeta is like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for any cozy dinner.
- Simple Preparation: With just a handful of ingredients, it’s incredibly easy to put together, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy Velveeta and tender chicken creates a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love.
- Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite veggies or adjust the ingredients to suit dietary preferences.
- Great for Leftovers: This casserole reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it again for lunch or dinner the next day!
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will be begging for seconds—it’s a surefire hit at the dinner table!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers of this delicious chicken rice broccoli casserole with Velveeta is straightforward! Once you’ve enjoyed your meal, let any leftovers cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer them to an airtight container. This will keep the casserole fresh in your refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to save it for a longer period, you can freeze it! Just wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It should stay good for up to two months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. For reheating, scoop out a portion into a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely with a paper towel, and heat for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. If you prefer a crispy topping, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Enjoy the comforting flavors again!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your delightful chicken rice broccoli casserole with Velveeta, there are plenty of delicious options to enhance your meal! A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a perfect side—it’s fresh and adds a nice crunch that complements the creamy casserole. You might also consider serving some crusty bread or dinner rolls on the side, which are great for soaking up any extra cheesy goodness.
If you want a heartier meal, pair it with some roasted or steamed vegetables like carrots or green beans. They add vibrant colors and nutrients to your plate. And for a bit of extra flair, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, can elevate the dish even more! Enjoy your comforting dinner, and don’t hesitate to mix and match sides according to your family’s preferences!
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this chicken rice broccoli casserole with Velveeta a try! It’s such a simple yet heartwarming dish that brings everyone together. After you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below or leave a rating. Cooking is all about sharing experiences and making memories, so let’s create some delicious ones together!
Print
Comforting Chicken Rice Broccoli Casserole with Velveeta: 5 Steps
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Comfort Food
Description
A comforting chicken rice broccoli casserole with Velveeta cheese.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, cooked rice, and broccoli.
- Add cream of chicken soup, Velveeta cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is melted.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with extra broccoli and mushrooms.
- Add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: chicken, rice, broccoli, casserole, Velveeta
