Let me tell you about my all-time favorite comfort food: *broccoli rice cheese and chicken casserole*! This dish has been a staple in my family for years, and it never fails to warm my heart (and my belly!). I remember my mom making it after long days, filling the house with that delicious aroma that just says “home.” It’s the perfect weeknight dinner because it’s so simple to throw together, and it always leaves everyone feeling satisfied. Plus, it’s one of those meals that gets better as leftovers, so you can enjoy it all over again! Trust me, this casserole is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a baking dish, bringing everyone together around the table. So, let’s dive into how to make this comforting delight!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple ingredients to whip up your delicious *broccoli rice cheese and chicken casserole*. Trust me, you’ll love how easy it is to find everything!
- 2 cups cooked broccoli (chopped into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown, it’s up to you!)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (perfect for using up leftovers!)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (because who doesn’t love cheese?)
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup (this adds that creamy goodness)
- 1/2 cup milk (for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for flavor magic)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (because onions make everything better)
- Salt and pepper to taste (season to your liking!)
With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set to create a cozy meal that everyone will rave about!
How to Prepare *Broccoli Rice Cheese and Chicken Casserole*
Alright, let’s get cooking! Making this *broccoli rice cheese and chicken casserole* is super straightforward, and I promise you’ll love how it all comes together. Ready? Let’s do this!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This little step is crucial for that golden, bubbly finish!
- While that oven warms up, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the cooked broccoli, rice, shredded chicken, and cheddar cheese. Oh, the cheesy goodness already starts to shine through!
- Next, pour in the cream of chicken soup and the milk. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This is where all the flavor comes to life! Mix everything together until it’s well combined and looks creamy and inviting.
- Now, transfer your delicious mixture into a greased baking dish. Make sure it’s spread evenly; this helps it cook up perfectly!
- Pop it into the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye out until it’s bubbly and slightly golden on top. It smells so good, you might find it hard to wait!
- Once it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes before diving in. This resting time is key for letting all those flavors meld together, trust me!
And there you have it! A comforting casserole that’s ready to be devoured. Enjoy every bite of this warm, cheesy hug!
Tips for Success
Want to make your *broccoli rice cheese and chicken casserole* even better? I’ve got some insider tips for you! First off, if you’re in a hurry, using leftover rotisserie chicken can save you tons of time—just shred it up and you’re good to go! If you’re looking for a healthier twist, swap out white rice for brown rice or even quinoa. It adds a nice nuttiness and extra nutrition!
Don’t be shy with the cheese—if you love that gooey goodness, add an extra half cup! And for a little zing, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Oh, and if you want to sneak in more veggies, chopped bell peppers or spinach work wonders! These little tweaks can make a big difference, so feel free to get creative!
Frequently Asked Questions
Got some questions about making your *broccoli rice cheese and chicken casserole*? No worries, I’m here to help!
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before mixing it in. It works perfectly!
What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup? You can easily substitute it with a homemade version using chicken broth, milk, and a bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken it up.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance! Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Is this casserole gluten-free? Yes, it is! Just make sure to check that your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free, and you’re all set!
Feel free to reach out if you have any other questions! Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Just a quick note before we dive into the numbers: nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, while I can give you a general idea, it might not be spot-on for your casserole! Here’s what you can typically expect per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Sugar: 2g
Keep in mind, these values are just a guideline. Always feel free to adjust ingredients based on your dietary needs. Happy cooking and eating!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a one-dish wonder, making cleanup a breeze!
- Comforting and creamy, perfect for cozy family dinners.
- Easy to customize with your favorite veggies or extra cheese.
- Great for using up leftovers, saving time and reducing waste.
- Freezer-friendly, so you can enjoy it anytime the craving hits!
This *broccoli rice cheese and chicken casserole* is truly a crowd-pleaser that brings smiles to the table! You’ll keep coming back for seconds, I promise!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Storing your *broccoli rice cheese and chicken casserole* is super easy. Just let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days, so you can enjoy those cozy flavors again!
When it’s time to reheat, you have a couple of options. For the best results, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until it’s heated through and bubbly again. If you’re short on time, you can microwave individual portions, but keep in mind it might lose a bit of that lovely texture. Just cover it with a damp paper towel to avoid drying out. Either way, you’re in for a delicious treat all over again!
Print
Broccoli Rice Cheese and Chicken Casserole: 5 Comforting Tips
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting casserole with broccoli, rice, cheese, and chicken.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked broccoli
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine broccoli, rice, chicken, cheese, soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use leftover chicken for quick preparation.
- Substitute brown rice for a healthier option.
- Add more cheese for extra richness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: broccoli rice cheese and chicken casserole
