Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

Are you looking for a hearty, wholesome meal that's easy to prepare and packed with flavor? Look no further than this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole recipe. This all-in-one dish is a family favorite, combining juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and perfectly cooked rice, all smothered in a creamy sauce. Whether you're a seasoned cook or new to the kitchen, follow this step-by-step guide to make a casserole that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Keep reading for the full recipe and some helpful tips to elevate your dish!

What is Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a savory dish made by combining cooked chicken, rice, and steamed broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Baked until bubbly, this comfort food is not only filling but also highly versatile, with options for various substitutions and additions. The dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even potlucks because it’s easy to make in large batches.

Ingredients List for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

To make the best Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Chicken: 3 cups of cooked and shredded chicken (you can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or boil/roast chicken breasts at home)
• Rice: 1 ½ cups of uncooked white or brown rice (or 3 cups cooked)
• Broccoli: 3 cups of fresh or frozen broccoli florets
• Cream of Chicken Soup: 2 cans (10.5 oz each)
• Milk: 1 cup (to thin out the sauce)
• Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• Onion: 1 small yellow onion, diced
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Butter: 2 tablespoons for sautéing the onions and garlic
• Salt and Pepper: To taste
• Paprika: ½ teaspoon, optional for a bit of heat and color
• Breadcrumbs: ½ cup for a crispy topping (optional)

Additional Ingredients You Can Use

Want to add some variety to your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole? Consider these additional ingredients:

• Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add extra depth of flavor and texture.
• Carrots or Peas: Add some finely chopped vegetables for more color and nutrition.
• Bacon: Crumbled bacon adds a savory, smoky flavor.
• Sour Cream: Stirring in ½ cup of sour cream adds tanginess and richness to the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle some parmesan for an extra cheesy kick.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is highly flexible, and you can make several substitutions based on your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.

• Chicken: If you're not a fan of chicken, substitute with turkey or cooked ground beef. For a vegetarian option, use tofu or more vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
• Rice: Substitute white rice with brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Cheese: Feel free to use other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp white cheddar.
• Soup: If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, you can use cream of mushroom or make your own from scratch by combining chicken broth, milk, and flour for a homemade roux.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients and variations ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the rice: If you haven't already, cook 1 ½ cups of uncooked rice (which should yield around 3 cups cooked). You can use a rice cooker or follow package directions for stove-top cooking.
3. Prepare the broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, steam the florets for about 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp. If using frozen broccoli, thaw it first and drain any excess moisture.
4. Cook the chicken: If you’re using uncooked chicken, cook and shred it. Rotisserie chicken works great here for convenience.
5. Sauté onions and garlic: In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
6. Make the creamy sauce: Stir in the cans of cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of milk, 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
7. Combine everything: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, and the cheesy sauce mixture. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
8. Transfer to a baking dish: Pour the mixture into the greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
9. Add toppings: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. If using breadcrumbs for a crispy topping, sprinkle them over the cheese.
10. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
11. Cool and serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole turns out perfectly every time, keep these common mistakes in mind:

• Not cooking the rice fully: Undercooked rice can leave the casserole dry and crunchy. Ensure the rice is fully cooked before mixing it in.
• Overcooking the broccoli: Broccoli should be tender-crisp, not mushy. Steaming it for 4-5 minutes or thawing frozen broccoli is sufficient.
• Skipping the seasoning: Make sure to taste the sauce before combining it with the other ingredients. Add salt, pepper, and any other seasonings to taste for maximum flavor.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Once your casserole is baked to perfection, it's time to think about serving and presentation. A well-presented dish not only looks appetizing but enhances the overall dining experience.

• How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole: You can serve this casserole as a main dish, paired with a simple green salad or a side of garlic bread. It’s also hearty enough to be served on its own.
• Presentation Ideas for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole: For a visually appealing presentation, garnish the casserole with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. You can also serve individual portions in small, oven-safe dishes for a restaurant-style feel.

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe Tips

• Meal Prep: This casserole is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. It also freezes well, so consider making a double batch!
• Healthier Option: To lighten up the dish, use low-fat cream of chicken soup, skim milk, and reduce the amount of cheese. You can also swap out the white rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the bake time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Q: Can I freeze Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?
A: Absolutely! After assembling, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.

Q: Can I use a different vegetable besides broccoli?
A: Yes! You can substitute broccoli with other vegetables like spinach, peas, or green beans. Just make sure they are cooked before adding them to the casserole.

Q: Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
A: Definitely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is a great way to save time and add flavor to the dish.

Conclusion

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s comforting, versatile, and packed with flavors that everyone will love. By following this detailed recipe, you'll have a delicious, hearty meal ready in no time. Don't be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and make it your own. Happy cooking!

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