Description
Craving comfort food that’s both easy and satisfying? This Chicken Broccoli Rice and Cheese Casserole Recipe has it all! 🥘 Tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and fluffy rice are baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce for the ultimate one-dish wonder. Perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd – save this recipe and make it your new family favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Begin your cooking adventure by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This crucial step ensures that your casserole will cook evenly, giving it a beautiful golden finish and perfectly melted cheese. Take a moment to appreciate the anticipation of what’s about to come.
Next, heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once shimmering, place your diced chicken breasts in the skillet. Sauté these morsels until they’re cooked all the way through, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally, enjoying the sizzling sound as the chicken browns. This will infuse a lovely flavor right from the start.
While the chicken cooks, bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your fresh broccoli florets and let them steam for about 2-3 minutes. This step brightens the color and enhances the crunch of the broccoli, making sure it stays vibrant and delicious in your final dish. Once done, drain the broccoli and set it aside to cool slightly.
In a separate pot, cook your rice according to the package instructions. Fluffy, white rice serves as the perfect base for your casserole, soaking up all the wonderful flavors that will come together. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork to keep it light and airy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, blanched broccoli, and fluffy rice. Sprinkle in your favorite seasonings—salt, pepper, and a dash of garlic powder—and mix everything thoroughly. This ensures each bite will be filled with joy and flavor.
Now comes the magic: add shredded cheese to your mixture! Stir until every little piece of chicken and rice is coated in gooey, cheesy goodness. This step is where your casserole starts to shine, giving it a creamy texture that will make you smile with every bite.
Pour your combined mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. The anticipation builds as you think about how amazing it will taste. To top it off, sprinkle a generous layer of cheese over the entire surface. This will melt beautifully, creating a comforting, golden crust.
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake it for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the cheese to be bubbly and slightly browned, creating that irresistible, crunchy topping. Take a moment to relish the delightful aromas wafting through your kitchen while you wait.
Once baked, remove your casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This tells the layers to settle just a bit, making it easier to slice. Scoop a generous portion onto each plate, and don’t forget to sprinkle some extra cheese or fresh herbs on top for a fun finish!
Notes
Cooking Tips
Consider using leftover rotisserie chicken to save time and enhance flavor. It’s a fantastic shortcut that adds a depth of taste without extra effort.
Vegetable Variations
Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for a colorful twist! Each addition brings its own unique flavor, making your casserole even more exciting.
Make-Ahead Advice
Want to prep ahead? Assemble the casserole a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready, bake it fresh for dinner, and enjoy the convenience of a home-cooked meal without the last-minute rush.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes