The aroma of cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole wafts through the house, wrapping you in a warm embrace of comfort. This dish is a symphony of flavors where tender chicken meets vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce that sings to your taste buds.
Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, and you’re gathered with family around the table, laughter mingling with the rich scent of this casserole. Memories of childhood dinners flood back as you savor every bite—each forkful reminding you why this dish is beloved. Perfect for weeknight meals or cozy gatherings, this casserole promises an amazing flavor experience that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole is simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
- The delightful blend of flavors will satisfy even the pickiest eaters
- Its inviting appearance makes it a showstopper on any dining table
- Plus, you can easily customize it to fit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand
I remember the first time I made this cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole; my kids devoured it in record time and asked for seconds—now that’s a win!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts are perfect for a family meal; ensure they’re fresh for optimal taste.
Fresh Broccoli: Choose bright green florets; they add crunch and nutrition to the casserole.
Long-Grain Rice: Opt for long-grain for fluffy texture; it’s essential to absorb all those delicious flavors.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A good quality cheese melts beautifully and gives that gooey goodness we crave.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and richness; look for low-sodium options if you’re watching salt intake.
Garlic Powder: Just a sprinkle enhances flavor without overpowering other ingredients; it’s a must-have pantry staple.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook diced chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. The smell will be irresistible!
Add the Broccoli and Rice: Stir in fresh broccoli florets and uncooked rice; cook for another 2-3 minutes just until the broccoli brightens in color.
Mix in Creamy Goodness: Pour in the cream of chicken soup along with 1 cup of water. Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper over everything. Stir gently until well combined.
Add Cheese and Bake: Fold in half of the shredded cheese before transferring everything into your prepared baking dish. Top with remaining cheese and cover tightly with foil.
Bake Away!: Bake for about 30-35 minutes covered. Remove foil during the last 10 minutes to let that cheese bubble and turn golden brown. Your kitchen will smell like pure bliss!
Now that you’ve made this cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole, get ready for compliments at dinner! Enjoy every creamy bite packed with flavor while creating new memories around your table.
You Must Know
- This cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole is a crowd-pleaser, blending rich flavors and textures
- The creamy cheese coats everything perfectly, while the broccoli adds a fresh crunch
- This dish is great for meal prep, making weeknight dinners a breeze!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the rice and steaming the broccoli first to save time and ensure perfect texture. Then, mix in sautéed chicken with melted cheese for a creamy delight.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors that suit your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For best results, use leftover rotisserie chicken; it saves time and adds flavor
- Always pre-cook your rice slightly to avoid mushiness in the casserole
- A sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top creates a delightful crispy texture when baked
The first time I made this casserole, my friends devoured it in minutes, demanding to know my “secret ingredient.” Little did they know, it was just love (and cheese) that made it so irresistible!
FAQ
Can I make cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it beforehand and bake before serving.
What type of cheese works best for this casserole?
Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella or pepper jack adds exciting flavors too.
How do I ensure my casserole isn’t dry?
Add extra cheese or a splash of broth before baking to keep it moist and creamy.
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and fluffy rice in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners or cozy family gatherings, this dish is easy to prepare and sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With its inviting aroma and delicious flavors, you’ll find everyone coming back for seconds.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (diced)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced chicken until golden brown (about 7-10 minutes).
- Stir in fresh broccoli florets and uncooked rice; cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Add cream of chicken soup and water; season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Fold in half of the shredded cheese, then transfer to the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining cheese and cover with foil.
- Bake covered for 30-35 minutes; remove foil during the last 10 minutes to brown the cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (230g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
