Okay, friends, let’s talk comfort food. I’m talking about the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm hug, the kind that makes you forget all your worries for a few minutes.Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole.! It’s seriously the best. Think of it as the easier, tastier cousin of classic mac and cheese, but packed with protein and veggies so you don’t feel *quite* guilty indulging. This one’s a total weeknight winner at my house, and I bet it will be at yours too. Honestly, the aroma alone when it’s baking?
What is chicken broth rice casserole?
Think of Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole.As a warm, creamy hug in a dish. It’s essentially a baked casserole featuring tender chicken, vibrant broccoli florets, fluffy rice, and a deliciously cheesy sauce. The beauty of it? What are some good ways to use up leftover chicken? What is home cooking at its best?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What is the reason behind this blog?Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole.Is a star in my kitchen. First and foremost, the flavor is incredible. The creamy, cheesy sauce perfectly complements the chicken and slightly crisp broccoli. What I love most about this is how unbelievably easy it is to make. Seriously, even on the busiest weeknights, I can whip this up without breaking a sweat. It’s also incredibly cost-effective. Chicken, rice, and broccoli are all relatively inexpensive ingredients, making it a budget-friendly meal for the whole family. And finally, it’s versatile! If you have leftover roasted red peppers, I’ll toss them in – delicious! What are some of the best ways to sneak in extra veggies for picky eaters? It even trumps my usual creamy pasta bake sometimes!
How do you make chicken broccoli rice casserole?
Quick Overview
Making this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole.Is it a breeze to cook rice and broccoli, prepare the creamy chicken mixture, combine everything in a baking dish, and bake it until golden and bubbly? What is magic in baking? Do not be intimidated by the seemingly long list of steps – it’s much easier than it looks!
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
* 2 cups cooked rice (I prefer long grain, but use whatever you have). ) * 2 cups cooked chicken, diced (rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver here) * 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed or blanched (frozen works great too! 75 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup * 1/2 cup mayonnaise (trust me on this one – it adds richness) * 1/2 cup milk (any kind will do, I’ve even used almond milk in a pinch) * 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese * 1/2 cup mayonnaise (trust me on this one – it adds richness) What is your favorite cheese blend? ) * 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese * 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder * 1/4 teaspoon onion powder * Salt and pepper to taste
What is the step-by-
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I usually use a little cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole.Does it stick to the bottom of a dish?
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, diced chicken, and broccoli florets. Make sure everything is evenly distributed. This is where the magic starts to happen!
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside. I always give it a good taste at this point and adjust the seasonings as needed.
Step 4: Mix it All Together
If you’re using rice, chicken, and broccoli, pour the creamy sauce over them. Gently stir until everything is well coated. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep the rice fluffy.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
If you like, you can sprinkle a little extra cheddar cheese on top for an extra cheesy crust.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the top is golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent the top from burning.
Step 7: Cool Slightly and Serve
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly. Enjoy!
What is the best way to serve it?
This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole.Is a meal in itself, but I often like to serve it with a side salad. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the richness of the casserole. For a heartier meal, you could serve it with some crusty bread or rolls for soaking up all that delicious sauce. My family also loves it with a side of steamed green beans or asparagus. What’s a good leftover lunch?
How do I make a Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?
What are some tips to elevate your self-esteem?Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole.What are the best ways to cook broccoli in a casserole? I usually steam it for just a few minutes until it’s bright green and still has a bit of bite. When mixing the ingredients, be gentle! Overmixing can make the rice mushy. I like to use a large spoon or spatula and gently fold everything together until just combined. For a richer flavor, try using a blend of cheeses. I often add a little Gruyere or Monterey Jack to the cheddar for extra depth. And finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings. Crushed crackers, breadcrumbs, or even potato chips add a nice crunch to the top of the casserole. I learned the hard way that overcooking the rice will ruin the whole dish, so be sure to cook it al dente if possible.
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
If you have any leftovers, what are they?Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole.Is it safe to store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days? To reheat, you can microwave it in individual portions or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If reheating in the oven, you may want to add a little milk or broth to prevent it from drying out. I don’t recommend freezing this casserole, as the texture of the rice and sauce can change when thawed.
What are the most frequently asked questions on Quora
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole.Is a family favorite for a reason? What are some of the best ways to use leftover chicken? What are some of my favorite casserole recipes?
Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets chopped
- 1 cup rice cooked
- 1 can cream of chicken soup 10.5 oz can
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, broccoli, rice, cream of chicken soup, and half of the cheese.
- Spread the mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
