Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole
If you’re looking for a comforting, delicious meal that’s easy to prepare, you’ve come to the right place! The Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is a family favorite that combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and creamy cheese over fluffy rice. This dish is not only satisfying, but it also makes for excellent leftovers.
Why make this recipe?
This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies, and the combination of flavors is a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it can be made in advance and stored in the fridge, making it a convenient option for meal prep. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a hearty dinner ready in no time! 🥦🍚🍗🧀
How to prepare Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole
Ingredients:
- 2 cups water 💧
- 2 cups uncooked rice 🍚
- 1 (10 oz) can cream of chicken soup 🥣
- 1 (10 oz) can cream of mushroom soup 🍄
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded 🍗
- 1/4 cup butter 🧈
- 2 cups broccoli florets 🥦
- 1 cup shredded cheese 🧀
Instructions:
- First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 🔥
- In a pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the uncooked rice and a pinch of salt. Reduce heat, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender. 🍽️
- While the rice is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add in the broccoli florets and sauté them for 3-4 minutes until they’re bright green and just tender. 🥦
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sautéed broccoli, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix well until everything is well coated. 🍗🍚
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the remaining shredded cheese. 🧀
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. ⏲️
- Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy! 😋
How to serve Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole
Serve the casserole warm, straight from the oven. It’s delicious on its own or paired with a simple green salad. You can also add some crusty bread on the side to soak up the creamy goodness! 🍽️🥗
How to store Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until thoroughly heated.
Tips for preparing Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole
- For added flavor, consider seasoning the chicken before cooking it, or using rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Feel free to add extra veggies like carrots or peas for additional nutrition.
- If you like a crispy topping, you can sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top along with the cheese.
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute cooked chicken with chickpeas or add more vegetables like bell peppers and corn.
- Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy version!
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese like cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for varied flavors.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance, keep it in the fridge, and then bake it when ready to serve.
2. Is it okay to use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli florets can be used directly in this recipe. Just thaw them before adding to the mixture.
3. Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. Just ensure it’s in an airtight container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until heated through.
Now you’re all set to make a delicious Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole that your family will love! Happy cooking! 🍽️