Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

Craving a comforting, all-in-one dish that’s both hearty and healthy? Look no further than this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole! Loaded with tender chicken, fluffy rice, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this casserole makes for a perfect family meal that’s both delicious and easy to make. Whether you’re preparing dinner for a busy weeknight or looking to impress guests at a potluck, this dish is sure to be a hit. So, let’s get started and dive into this flavorful, simple-to-make casserole!

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What is a “Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole”?

A Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a one-dish comfort food classic that combines cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, and fluffy rice with a creamy sauce, then tops it all with melted cheese. It’s a hearty, balanced meal that brings together protein, vegetables, and grains in a single dish, making it a favorite for busy families. You can easily customize it by adding extra vegetables, using different cheeses, or tweaking the seasonings to suit your taste.

Ingredients List for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole:

1. 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
2. 2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
3. 3 cups broccoli florets (steamed)
4. 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom soup)
5. ½ cup sour cream
6. ½ cup mayonnaise (optional for extra creaminess)
7. ½ cup milk (or chicken broth)
8. 1 small onion (diced)
9. 2 cloves garlic (minced)
10. 1 teaspoon garlic powder
11. 1 teaspoon onion powder
12. Salt and pepper to taste
13. 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
14. ½ teaspoon paprika (optional for extra flavor)
15. ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
16. 2 tablespoons butter (for breadcrumb topping)
17. Fresh parsley or chives (optional garnish)

Ingredients List for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole (Healthier Option)

For a lighter, healthier twist on the classic Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole, try the following substitutions:

1. 2 cups cooked chicken breast (leaner option)
2. 2 cups cooked brown rice (or quinoa for added protein)
3. 3 cups broccoli florets (steamed)
4. 1 can (10.5 oz) low-fat cream of chicken soup (or make your own)
5. ½ cup Greek yogurt (instead of sour cream)
6. ½ cup milk (or unsweetened almond milk)
7. 1 small onion (diced)
8. 2 cloves garlic (minced)
9. 1 teaspoon garlic powder
10. 1 teaspoon onion powder
11. Salt and pepper to taste
12. 1 ½ cups shredded low-fat cheddar cheese (divided)
13. ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for a crispy topping)
14. Fresh parsley or chives (optional garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

This casserole is highly versatile, allowing you to easily swap ingredients based on dietary preferences or what you have on hand:

• Protein Options: You can replace the chicken with turkey, ham, or even rotisserie chicken for convenience. For a vegetarian option, use tofu or chickpeas.
• Rice Alternatives: Brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice are great alternatives for white rice. These options add extra nutrients and make the dish more wholesome.
• Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free cream soup, substitute the sour cream with a plant-based alternative, and opt for vegan cheese.
• Cheese Options: While cheddar is the classic choice, you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for a different flavor profile.
• Extra Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or carrots for extra color and nutrients.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole:

1. Cook the Rice: If you haven’t already, cook your rice according to the package instructions. You’ll need about 2 cups of cooked rice. Set aside.
2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Steam the Broccoli: Steam the broccoli florets until they’re tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes. You don’t want them to be too soft as they will continue cooking in the casserole. Set aside.
4. Cook the Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce: In a large bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise (if using), and milk. Stir until smooth. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the cooked onions and garlic to the sauce mixture and stir to combine.
6. Combine the Ingredients: In the large bowl with the sauce, add the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, and cooked rice. Stir everything together until well combined.
7. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the chicken, broccoli, and rice mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
8. Add Cheese and Topping: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. If you’re using breadcrumbs, melt 2 tablespoons of butter, mix it with the breadcrumbs, and sprinkle this mixture over the cheese.
9. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.
10. Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.

How to Cook Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Rice: Cook your rice ahead of time and set it aside for easy assembly later.
2. Steam the Broccoli: Quickly steam the broccoli florets until tender but still firm.
3. Create the Creamy Base: Mix your cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and seasonings to create the creamy base for the casserole.
4. Mix It All Together: Combine cooked chicken, rice, and broccoli with the creamy sauce to form the main filling.
5. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the top of the casserole with shredded cheese, and if you want extra texture, add a buttery breadcrumb topping.
6. Bake: Bake the casserole in the oven until it’s hot, bubbly, and the cheese is perfectly melted.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Broccoli: Make sure you steam the broccoli only until tender-crisp. If it’s too soft, it may become mushy after baking.
2. Not Seasoning the Casserole: Don’t forget to season the casserole! Add enough salt and pepper to ensure the flavors are well balanced. Taste the sauce before mixing everything together.
3. Dry Casserole: To prevent the casserole from drying out, ensure there’s enough liquid (cream soup, sour cream, and milk) in the mixture before baking.
4. Using Uncooked Rice: Be sure to use cooked rice for this recipe. Uncooked rice will not absorb liquid properly and may result in a crunchy texture.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This casserole is a hearty meal in itself, but you can make it even more appealing with a few simple serving and presentation ideas:

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, chives, or even a little lemon zest adds brightness and color to the dish.
2. Serve with Sides: Pair this casserole with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to create a complete meal.
3. Use Individual Ramekins: For a more elegant presentation, bake the casserole in individual ramekins for single-serving portions.

How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Family Style: Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish at the table, allowing everyone to help themselves.
• Individual Portions: Use a large spoon to scoop individual servings onto plates, making sure each portion gets plenty of cheese and broccoli.
• Buffet Style: This dish works great as part of a buffet spread for a potluck or family gathering.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

1. Rustic Look: Serve your casserole in a rustic, oven-safe dish like cast iron or ceramic for a homestyle, cozy feel.
2. Herb Garnish: Brighten up the dish by sprinkling fresh herbs on top before serving.
3. Cheesy Top: Broil the casserole for the last 2 minutes of baking to get a golden, bubbly cheese top that’s both visually appealing and delicious.

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: This casserole is great for meal prep. You can assemble it ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and bake it when ready to eat. Just add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Assemble the dish, but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake in the oven until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A: Yes! You can use frozen broccoli, just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the casserole to prevent excess moisture.

Q: Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Use a gluten-free cream soup and gluten-free breadcrumbs if you’re using a topping. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Q: Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
A: Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and works perfectly in this recipe. Just shred or cube it and mix it in with the other ingredients.

Q: How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: You can use a dairy-free cream soup, substitute the sour cream with a non-dairy alternative, and use vegan cheese to make this recipe dairy-free.

Q: Can I use quinoa instead of rice?
A: Yes, quinoa is a great substitute for rice and adds extra protein to the dish. Just cook it according to package instructions before adding it to the casserole.

Conclusion

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is the perfect go-to recipe for busy weeknights or whenever you need a comforting, easy-to-make meal. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy rice, this dish is both nutritious and delicious. With its endless variations and customizable options, you can tailor it to suit your family’s tastes. Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner, meal prepping for the week, or bringing a dish to a potluck, this casserole is sure to please. Enjoy!

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