There’s something truly special about a warm, hearty casserole that feels like a big hug on a plate, and this chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole is just that! It’s the kind of dish that brings the family together, perfect for those cozy evenings when you want something comforting and delicious without spending all day in the kitchen. Trust me, this recipe is a breeze to prepare! With tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, fluffy rice, and gooey cheese all baked to perfection, you’ll have a meal that not only fills the belly but warms the heart. Plus, it’s so easy to customize based on what you have on hand. So grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into this delightful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to whip up this comforting casserole that everyone will love!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this comforting chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand. It saves time and adds flavor!
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed: Fresh or frozen broccoli works great here. Just make sure it’s tender before mixing it in.
- 1 cup cooked rice: I usually use white rice, but brown rice or even quinoa can be a healthier option.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded: Sharp or mild, depending on your taste! Cheese is what makes this dish wonderfully creamy.
- 1 can cream of chicken soup: This is the magic ingredient that ties everything together. If you prefer, there are low-sodium or gluten-free versions available.
- 1/2 cup milk: Regular milk works well, but you could use almond or soy milk if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: For that lovely fragrant kick!
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: This adds a nice depth of flavor without the hassle of chopping onions.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing out all the flavors. Don’t be shy—taste as you go!
How to Prepare the Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious casserole in no time. Trust me, it’s easier than you think!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is important because it ensures even cooking. If you skip this step, your casserole might not bake properly, and we don’t want that! So, set that oven and let it warm up while you prepare the rest.
Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, start by adding your cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, cooked rice, and shredded cheddar cheese. It’s important to mix these ingredients thoroughly, so every bite is packed with flavor. I like to use a spatula to fold everything gently, making sure all the ingredients are well combined. You’ll want to see that beautiful green broccoli and golden cheese all mixed in!
Add the Creamy Mixture
Now, it’s time to add the magic! Pour in the cream of chicken soup and the milk. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything well again—this is where you want to make sure that creamy goodness coats all the ingredients. It’ll create that lovely, comforting texture we’re after!
Transfer to Baking Dish
Next, grab a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Greasing it is important to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick when it’s time to serve. Carefully transfer your mixture into the baking dish, spreading it out evenly. I like to use the back of a spoon to smooth it down, so it bakes evenly. Look at that colorful mix—it’s already looking delicious!
Bake and Cool
Now, pop that dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is bubbly and golden—just the way we like it! Once it’s done, carefully take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. This is a great time to set the table or get your favorite side dish ready. Trust me, waiting just a little bit will be worth it when you dig in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have this casserole ready for the oven in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights!
- Comforting and Hearty: This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly evening, bringing a sense of coziness to your dinner table.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a good casserole! This recipe is a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a great option for family dinners.
- Versatile: You can easily customize it based on what you have in your fridge. Use turkey instead of chicken or throw in some extra veggies for added nutrition!
- One-Dish Meal: Everything bakes together in one dish, making cleanup a breeze—no need for a mountain of pots and pans!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat, making meal planning easy.
- Delicious Leftovers: It’s just as tasty the next day! Enjoy it reheated for lunch or dinner, and it’ll still be comforting and flavorful.
Tips for Success
To make sure your chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips that I’ve gathered over the years:
- Use Leftovers Wisely: If you have leftover chicken from a previous meal, this is the perfect way to use it! It adds so much flavor and saves you time.
- Check Your Broccoli: Whether you’re using fresh or frozen broccoli, make sure it’s cooked to the right tenderness before adding it to the mix. If it’s too crunchy, it won’t blend well with the other ingredients.
- Experiment with Cheeses: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix it up! Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a little kick. Cheese makes everything better!
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier casserole, add a little extra milk or a dollop of sour cream to the mixture before baking. It really amps up the comfort factor.
- Season to Your Liking: Don’t hesitate to adjust the garlic and onion powder to your taste. If you love garlic, add a bit more! Taste as you go, and make it your own.
- Perfect Portioning: If you’re cooking for a smaller crowd, you can easily halve the recipe and use an 8×8 inch baking dish. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as it may need a little less.
- Let It Rest: After you take the casserole out of the oven, let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set up a bit, making it easier to serve and eat.
- Make It Ahead: If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, assemble it and cover it before refrigerating. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Allergy-Friendly Options: For gluten-free needs, just be sure to choose a gluten-free cream of chicken soup. You can even use a homemade version to control the ingredients!
With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious, comforting casserole that everyone will love. Happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to switch things up a bit, there are plenty of fun and delicious ways to modify this chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole! Here are some ideas to get your creativity flowing:
- Add Different Vegetables: While broccoli is a classic choice, you can make this casserole even more colorful and nutritious by adding other vegetables. Carrots, peas, or bell peppers can add a nice pop of flavor and color. Just make sure they’re cooked to your liking before mixing them in!
- Try Alternative Grains: Instead of rice, you might want to experiment with quinoa or farro for a different texture and added health benefits. These grains can bring a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken and cheese.
- Use Different Proteins: If you have leftover turkey or ham, feel free to swap those in for the chicken. You could even use canned tuna for a seafood twist! Just be mindful of adjusting the cooking time slightly if you make any changes.
- Spice It Up: For those who like a little heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the mix. It’s an easy way to kick up the flavor without much effort!
- Swap the Cheese: While cheddar is a favorite, you can get creative with your cheese choices. Try mixing in some gouda for a smoky flavor, or go for a blend of mozzarella and parmesan for a delightful cheesy crust on top.
- Make It Creamier: If you love a rich, creamy texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture. It’ll enhance the overall creaminess and take this casserole to another level!
- Top It Off: For a crunchy topping, sprinkle some crushed crackers or breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the top before baking. This adds a delightful texture contrast to the creamy filling.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary can elevate the flavor profile of your casserole. Just chop them finely and mix them in for a burst of freshness!
With these variations, you can truly make this chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole your own. Have fun experimenting, and don’t hesitate to share your own twists on this comforting classic!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After enjoying your delicious chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole, you may be wondering how to store those tasty leftovers. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Proper storage will ensure that your casserole stays fresh and flavorful for days to come.
To store leftover casserole, let it cool completely at room temperature first. Once cooled, cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Alternatively, you can transfer the leftovers to an airtight container for easy storage. This will keep it safe in the fridge for up to 3-4 days—perfect for quick meals throughout the week!
When it comes to reheating, you have a couple of options. The best way to bring back that deliciousness is to reheat it in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and place the casserole covered with foil in the oven for about 20-25 minutes or until it’s heated through. If you want that cheesy top to get nice and bubbly again, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking. Just keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning!
If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Simply place a serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel (this keeps it from drying out), and heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through. Just be careful, as it can get hot quickly!
With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your comforting casserole just as much the next day. Happy eating!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for a serving of this comforting chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose to use:
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 25g
These values can help you plan your meals, especially if you have specific dietary needs. Feel free to adjust the ingredients to fit your preferences, and enjoy every hearty bite of this delicious casserole!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works perfectly in this casserole. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before mixing it in, so it doesn’t make the casserole too watery.
What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
No worries! You can make a quick homemade version by mixing together some chicken broth, milk, and a little flour or cornstarch to thicken it up. It’s simple and still gives you that creamy texture we love!
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Just assemble the casserole and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be mindful that it may need a little extra time in the oven since it’ll be cold from the fridge.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
It can be! Just make sure to use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and check that your other ingredients, like broth or any toppings, are also gluten-free. You’ll have a delicious dish that fits your dietary needs!
How do I know when the casserole is done?
When the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top has turned a lovely golden brown, it’s ready! You can also check by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out hot without any cold spots.
What sides go well with this casserole?
I love serving this casserole with a simple green salad or some crusty bread on the side. It pairs beautifully with a light vegetable dish, too, like roasted carrots or a fresh cucumber salad.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Just let the casserole cool completely, then wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or transfer them to airtight containers. It’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as needed.
Can I add more cheese?
Of course! If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to sprinkle a little more cheese on top before baking. You can’t go wrong with extra cheesy goodness!
Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole: 5 Cozy Comforts
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole that is easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 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 mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, cooked rice, and cheddar cheese.
- Add cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute cooked turkey for chicken.
- Use brown rice or quinoa for a healthier grain option.
- Try adding different vegetables like carrots or peas.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure the cream of chicken soup is gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole
