This comforting casserole combines tender chicken, cheesy goodness, broccoli, and fluffy rice in one hearty dish. It’s a meal that’s sure to warm your heart and tummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: You can use either white or brown rice based on your preference. I often use brown rice for its nutty flavor and extra fiber, but white rice works just fine for a softer texture.
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Leftover chicken or even canned chicken can be used too. It saves time and still tastes great!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is awesome, but frozen works well too and can save prep time. If broccoli isn’t your thing, consider using cauliflower or mixed vegetables instead.
Cream Soup: If you’re looking for a healthier option, try making a homemade cream sauce. You can also use cream of chicken soup for a different flavor, or look for low-sodium versions if that’s a concern.
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack can add unique flavors to your dish. Just make sure it melts well!
How Do I Get the Perfect Cheesy Crust on My Casserole?
Getting that delicious cheesy crust is a key part of this casserole. Here’s how to nail it:
- Make sure to add plenty of shredded cheese on top before baking. This is what will create that lovely, bubbly crust.
- Covering with foil initially helps cook everything through without burning. Just be sure to remove the foil for the last 15 minutes to let the cheese brown.
- If you want an even more golden crust, broil it for a minute or two at the end, but keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken for a different flavor)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 45 minutes to bake. So, in total, you should plan for about 1 hour for prep and cooking. Perfect for a comforting dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, the oven will be ready when you’re done preparing your casserole.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, broccoli florets, cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together until it’s nicely combined. It should be a creamy and colorful mixture!
3. Prepare the Casserole Dish:
Take a 9×13 inch casserole dish and grease it lightly with cooking spray or butter. Pour your delicious mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly so it cooks uniformly.
4. Add Some Extra Cheese:
Sprinkle a bit more shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. This will help create a nice cheesy crust while it bakes!
5. Optional Crunch:
If you like a little crunch, scatter the slivered almonds over the top of the cheese. This adds a nice texture to your dish.
6. Bake Covered:
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake it for about 30 minutes. This helps all the flavors blend together beautifully.
7. Bake Uncovered:
After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil. This allows the cheese to get bubbly and golden brown. Bake it uncovered for an additional 15 minutes.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s finished baking, carefully take the casserole out of the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Then scoop some onto your plate and enjoy the comforting flavors of your Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice can be a great healthier option and adds a nice nutty flavor. Just keep in mind that if you’re using brown rice, it will need to be cooked beforehand as it takes longer to cook than white rice. Make sure it’s soft before adding it to the casserole mixture!
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup on hand or prefer not to use it, you can substitute it with a homemade mixture. Combine 1 cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt with 1 cup of chicken broth and a sprinkle of dried mushrooms or herbs for flavor. This will still give you that creamy texture!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works perfectly in this casserole! Just be sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the mixture. This helps prevent the casserole from becoming soggy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave or bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes until heated through!
