broccoli rice chicken and cheese casserole recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best broccoli rice chicken and cheese casserole recipe

I’m so excited to share this broccoli rice chicken and cheese casserole recipe with you all. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Whether we’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this casserole never fails to impress. I’ve served it at family gatherings, potlucks, and even to company – everyone loves it!

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques. My kids love helping me prepare the dish, and they’re always eager to be my official taste-testers.

As for me, I appreciate the fact that this recipe is not only delicious but also relatively healthy compared to other casseroles. The broccoli and chicken provide a good dose of protein and vitamins, while the rice and cheese add some much-needed carbohydrates and calcium.

It’s truly a well-rounded meal that satisfies our cravings without breaking the bank or weighing us down. So, let’s get started on this fantastic recipe!

Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole

4.7 from 1788 votes

A comforting and hearty casserole featuring tender chicken, broccoli, and rice, all smothered in a creamy cheese sauce. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Casserole

2 cups cooked rice
2 cups chopped broccoli florets
2 cups cooked diced chicken
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
1 cup chicken broth
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder

For Topping

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
3Add flour to form a roux, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes until lightly browned.
4Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth.
5Bring to a simmer, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens slightly.
6This should take about 3-5 minutes.
7Stir in salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
8Remove from heat and add 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
9In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli florets, and diced chicken.
10Pour the cheese sauce over the mixture and stir until well coated.
11Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
12Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
13Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
14Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
15This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to serve.

🔧Equipment

Baking dish
Saucepan
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 20g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 900mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce. You can also use frozen broccoli florets, just make sure to thaw and drain them before using.

Watch Video Of How Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole Works

This broccoli rice chicken and cheese casserole recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether we’re celebrating a special event or just need a comforting meal after a long day. My family loves it because it’s both delicious and easy to make.

As for me, I appreciate how versatile this recipe is – I can adjust the ingredients based on what we have on hand or what dietary restrictions we need to accommodate. Plus, it’s perfect for leftovers – we can enjoy it for lunch or dinner the next day without any fuss.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole

Q1: What type of rice should I use for this casserole?

I recommend using long-grain white or brown rice for this recipe. Both types of rice will give you a similar texture and flavor profile.

Q2: Can I substitute the chicken with beef or pork?

You can use beef or pork in place of the chicken if you prefer – just adjust the cooking time accordingly. Beef will take about 10-15 minutes longer to cook through, while pork will take around 5-7 minutes longer.

Q3: How do I prevent the broccoli from becoming too soggy in the casserole?

To avoid soggy broccoli, make sure to steam it until tender before adding it to the casserole mixture. This will help preserve its texture and flavor.

Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the casserole mixture up to a day in advance, but I recommend assembling it just before baking for optimal results.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this casserole?

For optimal reheating results, I recommend using your oven instead of a microwave. Simply cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes – this will ensure that the cheese is melted and bubbly once more.

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