Title:Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole

by

Introduction:

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and fluffy rice all baked together in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or feeding a hungry family. With its cheesy, savory flavor and satisfying texture, it’s a meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed or blanched
  • 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice, cooked
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for a vegetarian version)
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
  • 1 tbsp butter (optional, for greasing the baking dish)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
  2. Prepare the casserole mixture:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
  3. Assemble the casserole:
    • Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
  4. Optional topping:
    • If you like a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the casserole and dot with small pieces of butter.
  5. Bake:
    • Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
  6. Serve:
    • Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Description:

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, packed with tender chicken, bright green broccoli, and fluffy rice, all wrapped in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Topped with melted cheddar and optionally crunchy breadcrumbs, this dish is both satisfying and delicious.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 26g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fat: 16g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 3g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  1. Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
    Yes, leftover cooked or rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this casserole.
  2. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
    Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice.
  3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
    Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Recommendations:

  • For Extra Flavor: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the casserole a little kick.
  • Pairing Suggestions: Serve with a simple side salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.
  • For a Healthier Twist: Use low-fat sour cream and cheese to reduce the calorie content.

Conclusion:

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that’s sure to please the whole family. With its rich, cheesy flavor, nutritious broccoli, and tender chicken, it’s a delicious, hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Leave a Comment