Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Name: Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-485763H15M51S
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed; 1 cup uncooked rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Isabella

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Looking for a simple yet delicious dinner that the whole family will love? This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a fantastic choice, combining tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and hearty rice in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

2 cups broccoli florets, steamed

1 cup uncooked rice

2 cups chicken broth

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup milk

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

Cook the Rice: In a saucepan, cook the rice in chicken broth according to the package instructions. This step infuses the rice with savory flavor.

Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure everything is well combined.

Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the comforting blend of flavors and textures!

Serving Tips:

Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to cool for about 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the ingredients set and makes it easier to serve.

Portion Sizes: Use a spatula to cut the casserole into squares or rectangles for even serving. This dish pairs well with a side salad or some crusty bread.

Garnish: For a touch of freshness, consider garnishing with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar cheese before serving.

Reheating: If serving leftovers, reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Storage Tips:

Cool Completely: Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.

Airtight Containers: Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh. You can also cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Refrigeration: Keep the casserole in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it is stored at or below 40°F (4°C).

Freezing: To freeze, wrap the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. For best results, freeze individual portions for easy reheating.

Thawing and Reheating: Thaw frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

Related Recipes:

Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Rice Casserole

FAQs:

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice in this recipe. However, you will need to adjust the cooking time and amount of chicken broth. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook, so you may need to simmer it for about 40-45 minutes instead of the usual 15-20 minutes for white rice. Ensure the rice is fully cooked before mixing it into the casserole.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble the casserole as instructed, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the refrigerator.

Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?

Yes, you can substitute the cream of chicken soup with other options such as cream of mushroom soup, or a homemade white sauce if you prefer. For a lighter alternative, you can use a low-fat or reduced-sodium version of the cream of chicken soup.

How do I make this casserole dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, you can use dairy-free alternatives for the cheese and milk. For the cheese, use a dairy-free shredded cheese, and for the milk, opt for a plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk. Make sure the cream of chicken soup is also dairy-free or use a dairy-free cream soup substitute.

Conclusion:

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is not just a dinner dish but a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or as a make-ahead meal. Give it a try, and you’ll have a comforting, wholesome dish that will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation.

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