Description
Comfort meets convenience in this easy cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole, packed with creamy goodness and wholesome ingredients. Hearty layers of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and melted cheese create a satisfying meal that brings warmth to your dinner table.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein and Starch:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice)
Vegetables:
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
Cheese and Sauce Ingredients:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 ounces / 298 grams) cream of chicken soup
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Liquid and Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping:
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Prepare the oven environment by setting the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and coating a 9×13-inch baking vessel with a light layer of grease.
- Gather the primary components: shredded chicken, prepared rice, tender broccoli florets, and grated cheddar cheese into a spacious mixing vessel.
- Craft a creamy binding sauce by whisking together cream of chicken soup, milk, aromatic garlic powder, subtle onion powder, seasoning salt, and freshly ground black pepper until achieving a silky, uniform consistency.
- Drench the chicken and rice mixture with the prepared sauce, ensuring each ingredient is thoroughly and evenly enrobed.
- Carefully transfer the amalgamated mixture into the prepared baking dish, distributing it uniformly to promote consistent heating.
- Enhance the dish’s textural complexity by sprinkling a delicate layer of Parmesan cheese and crisp breadcrumbs across the surface for an appetizing golden crust.
- Position the casserole in the preheated oven, allowing it to transform for 20–25 minutes until the edges bubble enthusiastically and the cheese melts into a luxurious, golden blanket.
Notes
- Optimize Rice Texture by using day-old rice or letting freshly cooked rice cool completely to prevent mushiness and maintain distinct grains.
- Create Dairy-Free Version by substituting cream of chicken soup with dairy-free alternative and using plant-based milk and cheese options for lactose-intolerant individuals.
- Boost Nutritional Value by adding extra vegetables like diced bell peppers, spinach, or cauliflower to increase fiber and vitamin content without compromising flavor.
- Elevate Flavor Profile by experimenting with different cheese combinations like sharp cheddar, monterey jack, or pepper jack to add depth and complexity to the casserole.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg