Ready to impress your family with a simple, tasty meal? This Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole is the one-pot wonder you need. Packed with chicken, cheese, and broccoli, it’s a delicious way to gather everyone around the table. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and clean up! Let’s dive into this easy recipe that will make mealtime a breeze and win hearts with every bite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup long-grain rice, uncooked
– 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
Condiments and Seasonings
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
Cheese and Topping
– 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– 0.5 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
This dish is simple and great for busy nights. The main ingredients are the star here. Start with cooked chicken, which adds protein and flavor. Long-grain rice provides a nice base. Broccoli adds color and nutrients.
Next, we need our condiments and seasonings. Cream of chicken soup gives a rich taste. Chicken broth makes it moist. Milk adds creaminess. Garlic and onion powder bring out the flavors. Don’t forget salt and pepper to taste!
Lastly, cheese and topping make it extra special. Sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully. Breadcrumbs add a nice crunch on top if you choose to use them.
With these ingredients, you can create a tasty meal that everyone will enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Ingredients
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Gather and prepare all ingredients. This makes cooking easier and faster.
Cooking in One Pot
– In a large pot, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
– Add one cup of uncooked long-grain rice to the pot and toast it for about two minutes. Stir frequently until the rice is slightly golden.
– Now, combine one can of cream of chicken soup, one cup of chicken broth, and one cup of milk in the pot. Mix well until everything is combined.
Incorporating Chicken and Broccoli
– Add two cups of broccoli florets and two cups of shredded chicken to the pot.
– Sprinkle in one teaspoon of garlic powder, one teaspoon of onion powder, and add salt and pepper to taste. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed.
– Bring the pot to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cover it. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
Baking and Serving
– Once the rice is cooked, remove the lid. Stir in half of the one cup of sharp cheddar cheese until it melts.
– If you like a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top and add the remaining cheddar cheese.
– Transfer the pot to the oven and bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes. Look for the cheese to be bubbly and the breadcrumbs to be golden brown.
This dish is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– Use leftover or rotisserie chicken for convenience. This saves time and effort while keeping the dish flavorful.
– Ensure rice is fully cooked and tender before baking. This step prevents any hard or crunchy rice in your casserole.
Cheese Variations
– Experiment with different types of cheese, like mozzarella or gouda. Each cheese brings a unique taste and texture to the dish.
– Top with freshly grated cheese for better melting. Fresh cheese creates a gooey and rich layer that everyone loves.
Perfecting the Texture
– Adjust breadcrumbs for desired crunchiness. You can add more or less depending on how crispy you want the topping.
– Cover with foil if browning too quickly, then uncover for the last few minutes. This method helps to cook everything evenly while keeping the top from burning.
Variations
Healthier Options
You can make this casserole healthier by swapping a few ingredients.
– Substitute brown rice for white rice: Brown rice adds more fiber and nutrients. It may take a bit longer to cook, so adjust your time accordingly.
– Use low-fat or dairy-free cheese options: Try using low-fat cheese or a dairy-free alternative. This change can reduce calories and fat while still giving you that cheesy goodness.
Flavor Enhancements
Boost the taste of your casserole with simple additions.
– Add diced bell peppers or carrots for extra vegetables: These vegetables not only add color but also pack in more nutrients.
– Spice it up with red pepper flakes or hot sauce: A touch of heat can elevate the dish and excite your taste buds.
Vegetarian Adaptations
You can easily turn this casserole into a vegetarian delight.
– Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu: Both chickpeas and tofu provide great protein and texture. They also absorb flavors well.
– Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth: This swap keeps the dish tasty while making it fully plant-based.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your casserole fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It tastes best when eaten within 3-4 days. This ensures that the flavors stay vibrant and the dish remains safe to enjoy.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some for later, let the casserole cool completely. Once cool, package it in freezer-safe containers or bags. This way, you can enjoy it on another day without losing any taste.
Reheating Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat them in the oven or microwave. Heat until it’s warmed through. To keep it moist, add a splash of milk before reheating. This small step makes a big difference in keeping your casserole creamy and delicious.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole and store it in the fridge before baking. This helps save time on a busy day. Just cover it well to keep it fresh. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven as per the recipe.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! Just add it directly to the casserole without thawing. Frozen broccoli works great and saves you prep time. Plus, it cooks well in the oven, keeping its bright color and nutrients.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
You can use homemade cream of chicken soup or a can of cream of mushroom soup as a substitute. Both options add flavor. If you prefer, you can also make a simple white sauce with butter, flour, and broth. This gives you more control over the taste and texture.
This blog post shared a simple chicken and rice casserole recipe. I covered key ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and tips for success. You can create a delicious meal easily with chicken, rice, and broccoli. Exploring variations lets you customize it to fit your tastes. Store leftovers for quick meals later. This recipe is perfect for families. Enjoy cooking and experimenting with flavors to make it your own.
