Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole: A Delicious and Comforting Meal

Are you looking for a comforting and flavorful dish that the whole family will love? Look no further than this mouthwatering Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole. Packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with cheesy goodness, this casserole is the perfect combination of comfort and nutrition. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a special occasion, this recipe has got you covered.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons why this Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole will become a family favorite. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious homemade meal on the table in no time. The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and flavorful broccoli creates a harmony of flavors that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Not only is this casserole delicious, but it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse, rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It adds a vibrant color and a delightful crunch to the dish. The chicken provides lean protein, while the rice adds a comforting and filling element. And let’s not forget about the cheese – it brings everything together with its gooey, melty goodness.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delectable Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Optional ingredient substitutions:

If you want to add some variety to your casserole, feel free to experiment with different ingredients. Here are a few ideas:

• Swap chicken for turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Replace cheddar cheese with mozzarella, Swiss, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
• Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for added nutritional value.
• Add some diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth, creating a roux.
3. Gradually add the milk to the skillet, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
4. Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
5. Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and well combined.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, and broccoli florets.
7. Pour the cheese sauce over the chicken, rice, and broccoli mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
8. Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
10. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Expert Tips for Success:

• For an extra crispy topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the casserole before baking.

• If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add a little more milk to the cheese sauce.

• To save time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken from scratch.

Variations and Substitutions

This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your taste. Here are a few variations and substitutions you can try:

• Swap out the chicken for cooked ham or turkey for a different twist.

• Use cauliflower instead of broccoli for a low-carb option.

• Add some diced onions or bell peppers for extra flavor.

• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere or Monterey Jack.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate it even further with some delicious side dishes. Serve it with a fresh green salad for a refreshing contrast, or pair it with some crusty bread to soak up the cheesy sauce. If you’re looking for a heartier meal, serve the casserole with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, on top for a pop of color and added freshness.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?

A: Yes, you can freeze any leftovers. Once the casserole has cooled, divide it into individual portions and store them in airtight containers or freezer bags. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?

A: Yes, you can use frozen broccoli in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the casserole.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like a warm and comforting casserole to bring the whole family together. This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that never fails to impress. With its creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and nutritious broccoli, it’s a complete meal that satisfies both the taste buds and the soul. So why not give this recipe a try and experience the joy of a homemade casserole that will become a staple in your recipe collection? Your taste buds will thank you!

Remember to share your cooking adventures and tag us on social media. Happy cooking!

Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

Recipe by Author

A delicious and comforting casserole packed with wholesome ingredients like chicken, rice, broccoli, and cheese. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Course: Main Dish Cuisine: American Difficulty: medium

★

★

★

★

☆

4.5 from 120 votes

Pin Print

🍽️

Servings

6

⏱️

Prep time

20

minutes

🔥

Cooking time

30

minutes

📊

Calories

380

kcal

Cook Mode

Keep the screen of your device on

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth, creating a roux.
3. Gradually add the milk to the skillet, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
4. Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
5. Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and well combined.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, and broccoli florets.
7. Pour the cheese sauce over the chicken, rice, and broccoli mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
8. Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
10. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 380

Fat: 18

Carbohydrates: 26

Protein: 27

Sodium: 540

Fiber: 3

Sugar: 3