Ah, the joy of a good casserole! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve turned to a trusty cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole when I need some comfort food but don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen. This delightful dish is a staple in my household, often gracing our dinner table after a busy day or even on a chill Saturday night while we binge-watch our favorite shows.
What I love most about this casserole is its sheer versatility. You can use up leftover rotisserie chicken, throw in whatever veggies you have hanging around, and before you know it, you’ve got a meal that warms your heart and fills your belly. Plus, who doesn’t love a dish that’s smothered in cheese? It reminds me of family gatherings, where everyone digs in with big smiles, making the meal not just tasty, but a cherished memory as well.
What’s in Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?
Cooked Chicken: I usually opt for shredded rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds juicy flavor. If you’ve got leftover chicken, that’s even better!
Cooked Rice: White or brown rice works here; it’s all about your preference. The rice provides a hearty base for the casserole.
Broccoli Florets: Fresh broccoli is my go-to for that delicious crunch, but frozen broccoli works just as well—easy and convenient!
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: You can never have too much cheese! I typically use sharp cheddar for that robust flavor, and I love how it melts into gooey perfection.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This is the glue that holds everything together, making the casserole creamy and rich. You can also substitute it with a homemade version or a different cream soup if you like.
Milk: Just a splash to loosen everything up. If you want to keep it healthier, low-fat milk works great.
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These pantry staples are key to bringing depth of flavor to this dish.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that make a world of difference.
Fresh Parsley: Not just for garnish; this adds a pop of color and a fresh taste that brings it all together.
Is Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Good for You?
You might be wondering about the health benefits of this cheesy delight, so let’s break it down!
Chicken: A great source of lean protein that keeps you feeling full longer. This dish is perfect after a workout or if you’ve had a long day.
Broccoli: Packed with vitamins C and K, as well as fiber, it’s hard to argue with this nutritional powerhouse.
Rice: Depending on whether you choose brown or white, rice can provide energy and can be part of a balanced diet. Brown rice, in particular, has more fiber and nutrients.
Cream of Chicken Soup: While it can be high in sodium, you can opt for a low-sodium version or make your own for better control of ingredients.
Now, one thing to keep in mind is that this casserole is definitely richer, so if you’re watching your calorie intake, maybe have a smaller portion or pair it with a fresh salad to balance things out!
Ingredients List
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie works great)
– 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
– 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
This recipe serves about 4 to 6 people, depending on how hungry you all are!
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), so it’s warm and ready to bake by the time we finish mixing everything.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, broccoli florets, 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Give it a good mix until everything is nicely incorporated.
3. Transfer this delicious mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly so every bite has the goodness.
4. Now, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cheese is life, after all!
5. Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it into the oven to bake for 25 minutes.
6. After 25 minutes, take off the foil and let it bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. Your kitchen is going to smell heavenly!
7. Once it’s done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions & Fun Variations
Feeling adventurous? You can play around with this recipe to match your taste buds! Try adding in additional veggies like diced bell peppers, carrots, or even some crispy spinach for extra nutrition.
If you want to kick up the flavor, a sprinkle of paprika or crushed red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick. And for a twist, substitute the cheddar with a Mexican blend cheese for a more zesty casserole!
This casserole also stores beautifully in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and just reheat it in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy.
Give this delicious cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole a whirl! I promise it’s a dish your family will love and one you’ll want to make over and over again. I’d love to hear how yours turns out and any creative spins you put on it! Happy cooking!
