Easy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole—a hearty and wholesome dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and fluffy rice in a luscious, cheesy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings, this casserole is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love The Easy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole:
This casserole boasts a comforting combination of flavors and textures. The succulent chicken pairs beautifully with the crisp-tender broccoli and fluffy rice, all smothered in a rich and creamy sauce. Each spoonful is a taste of home-cooked goodness that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.
Personal Story: Growing up, Easy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole was a staple in my household. It was a dish my mother would often prepare on chilly evenings, filling our home with the irresistible aroma of bubbling cheese and savory chicken. As I watched her effortlessly whip up this comforting meal, I knew that it would always hold a special place in my heart. Now, I carry on the tradition by sharing this beloved recipe with my own family, creating new memories with each delicious bite.
Key Features:
- Comforting and satisfying meal
- Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
- Versatile dish suitable for any occasion
- Can be made ahead of time for convenience
What i need to make Easy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets, blanched
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Easy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, blanched broccoli, cooked rice, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, broccoli, and rice mixture, and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Tips For Easy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole:
- For added flavor, you can sauté diced onions and minced garlic before adding them to the sauce mixture.
- Feel free to add additional vegetables, such as diced bell peppers or mushrooms, to the casserole for extra nutrition and flavor.
- If you prefer a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the casserole before baking.
Variations For Easy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole:
- Swap the chicken for turkey or ham for a different twist on the classic casserole.
- Use different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Swiss, to customize the flavor profile of the dish.
- Substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of broccoli soup for a vegetarian version of the casserole.
Make It Healthier:
- Use low-fat or Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to reduce the fat content.
- Increase the proportion of broccoli and rice in the casserole to add more fiber and nutrients.
- Use reduced-fat cheese or less cheese overall to lower the calorie and fat content.
Closing: Treat your family to the comforting goodness of our Easy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole. Whether enjoyed as a satisfying weeknight dinner or shared at a potluck gathering, this dish is sure to bring smiles to faces and warmth to hearts. With its simple preparation and delicious flavors, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a beloved favorite in your home.
Frequently Asked Questions For Easy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole:
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the casserole.
Can I make this Easy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this Easy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works great and adds extra flavor to the casserole.
Can I omit the sour cream?
While sour cream adds creaminess and tang to the dish, you can omit it if desired or substitute it with Greek yogurt.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, leftover casserole can be portioned and frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes, you can use any type of cooked rice you prefer, such as jasmine rice, basmati rice, or even wild rice.
How can I prevent the Easy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole from becoming too dry?
Make sure the sauce mixture is well combined and evenly distributed throughout the casserole before baking. You can also cover the dish with foil during baking to retain moisture.
Can I add other seasonings or herbs to the Easy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the seasoning blend to suit your taste preferences. Herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley would be great additions.
Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Course: All Recipes, Lunch Recipe, Occasions, Weight watchers4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalIngredients
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
2 cups broccoli florets, blanched
2 cups cooked white or brown rice
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, blanched broccoli, cooked rice, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, broccoli, and rice mixture, and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
