Name: Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (diced); 3 cups fresh broccoli florets (steamed); 1 cup long-grain rice (uncooked); 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded); 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 cup whole milk; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Print Recipe

When you think of the ultimate comfort food, what comes to mind? For me, it’s cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole. Picture this: a bubbling dish fresh from the oven, with tender pieces of chicken nestled among vibrant broccoli florets, all smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce that practically invites you to dig in. The smell wafts through the house like a warm hug on a chilly day, making it impossible to resist.

This is more than just a casserole; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories. I remember my grandma serving this dish during family gatherings, and everyone would dive in like they were competing for the last slice of pizza at a party. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me; your taste buds are in for an unforgettable treat.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
The rich flavor profile combines creamy cheese and savory chicken for pure bliss
Plus, its stunning presentation makes it ideal for potlucks or family dinners
Versatile enough to adapt based on what you have on hand!

I still chuckle when I think of the first time I made this casserole for my friends. They devoured it so quickly that I thought they might fight over the last bite! Their happy faces and satisfied bellies made it worth every effort.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts depending on your serving size needs; ensure they’re cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Fresh Broccoli: Bright green florets work best; steam them lightly before mixing to keep their vibrant color and crunch.
Long-Grain Rice: A classic choice for casseroles; opt for uncooked rice for the best texture as it absorbs flavors during baking.
Cheddar Cheese: Go for sharp cheddar; it melts beautifully and adds great flavor depth to your dish.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This is your secret weapon for creaminess; opt for low-sodium versions if you’re watching your salt intake.
Milk: Whole milk adds richness; however, you can substitute with low-fat milk if preferred.
Onion Powder & Garlic Powder: These spices bring warmth and depth; feel free to adjust according to your taste preference.
Pepper & Salt: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors—don’t skip these!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking dish with non-stick spray while you’re at it—trust me; you don’t want a sticky situation later.

Cook the Rice: Boil about 2 cups of water in a large pot, add rice along with a pinch of salt, then cover and reduce heat. Let it simmer until all water is absorbed—about 15-20 minutes should do the trick.

Sauté the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, add some olive oil and sauté diced chicken until golden brown. This step enhances flavor, plus who can resist that delightful sizzle?

Mix It All Together!: In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, sautéed chicken, steamed broccoli florets, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well-coated and happy together!

Transfer and Top It Off!: Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle generous amounts of shredded cheddar cheese on top because more cheese equals more happiness!

Bake Until Golden: Place in the oven and bake uncovered for about 30-35 minutes until everything is bubbling hot and cheese has turned golden brown—the aroma will be irresistible!

Enjoying cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole not only satisfies hunger but also fills hearts with joy! It’s perfect as a main course or even as leftovers—if there are any left that is! Happy cooking! For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Marsala recipe recipe.

You Must Know

This cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole is the ultimate comfort food
With its creamy texture and savory flavor, it turns a weeknight dinner into a cozy feast that everyone will adore
The blend of melted cheese and tender chicken creates a dish that’s hard to resist

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole perfection, start by cooking the chicken first, then sauté the veggies while the rice simmers. Mix everything together at the end for even flavor distribution.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to jazz up this dish with different cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for added creaminess. You can also swap out broccoli for other veggies like cauliflower or spinach to suit your taste preferences.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until bubbly and heated through, restoring its creamy goodness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For a seamless experience, ensure your chicken is diced uniformly for even cooking
Avoid overcooking the broccoli; it should stay vibrant and slightly crunchy
Lastly, let the casserole rest before serving to enhance flavor melding

Cooking this cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole reminds me of family gatherings where we’d all dig in enthusiastically, leaving no leftovers behind. It always brings smiles and satisfied bellies!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen broccoli in cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to prevent excess moisture from making your casserole soggy. Frozen broccoli can save time without sacrificing taste.

What type of cheese works best for this recipe?

Cheddar cheese is a classic choice that melts beautifully and adds sharpness. However, feel free to mix in others like mozzarella or gouda for added richness and flavor complexity.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

You can substitute brown rice for white rice and use low-fat cheese or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream to lighten things up without compromising on taste in your cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole.