Introduction
This delicious chicken and broccoli casserole is a comforting dish that brings together tender shredded chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy goodness, all baked together with cheddar cheese on top. It’s an easy recipe that can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Let’s dive into the ingredients and directions for this satisfying meal.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked white rice
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8 people
In just a few steps, you can have this delightful casserole on your table, perfect for any occasion! Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prepare it for baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
Boil the broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until they are crisp-tender. Drain the broccoli and rinse it with cold water to halt the cooking process. Pat the broccoli dry with a paper towel.
Step 3: Mix the Main Ingredients
In the prepared casserole dish, combine the cooked white rice, shredded chicken, and broccoli. Mix these ingredients until they are evenly distributed throughout the dish.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In a separate bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with the cream of chicken soup until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous.
Step 5: Combine the Sauce Ingredients
Add the chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper to the cream cheese mixture. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 6: Pour the Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce over the rice, chicken, and broccoli mixture in the casserole dish. Stir to make sure that all ingredients are evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 7: Add Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole mixture.
Step 8: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The casserole should be heated through, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly.
Step 9: Rest Before Serving
Remove the casserole from the oven. Allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and cool slightly.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This casserole can be served as a main dish along with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Customizing the Recipe
Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or peas, or use different types of cheese to change the flavor profile.
Cook techniques
Preheating the Oven
Preheating ensures even cooking and helps foods achieve the desired texture. Set the oven to 375°F to prepare for baking.
Blanching Broccoli
Boil broccoli florets for a short time (3-4 minutes) to maintain their bright color and crisp-tender texture. Rinse with cold water immediately to stop the cooking process.
Combining Ingredients
Mixing cooked rice, shredded chicken, and broccoli in the casserole dish allows for even distribution of flavors and textures throughout the dish.
Creating the Sauce
Blend softened cream cheese and cream of chicken soup until smooth. This will create a creamy base that enhances the dish’s richness.
Seasoning
Adding garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper to the sauce provides layers of flavor that complement the main ingredients.
Casserole Assembly
Pour the sauce over the rice, chicken, and broccoli mixture, stirring to ensure everything is evenly coated for a harmonious taste.
Topping with Cheese
Sprinkling shredded cheddar cheese on top adds a delicious, melty layer that enhances the casserole’s appeal and flavor.
Baking the Casserole
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and bubbly. This allows for proper cooking and blending of flavors.
Resting Before Serving
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking. This allows the dish to set, making it easier to serve.
FAQ
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice can be used, but ensure it is fully cooked before combining with other ingredients, as cooking times may vary.
How can I make this dish healthier?
You can add more vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, and use reduced-fat versions of cream cheese and soup.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it before baking. Just increase baking time by a few minutes if baking from cold.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
You can use homemade cream of chicken soup or substitute it with cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes, replace the chicken with cooked beans or lentils and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth.
Can this dish be frozen?
Yes, the casserole can be frozen before baking. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
Conclusion
This delicious casserole combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy sauce, all topped with melted cheddar cheese, making it a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. With its simple preparation and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Broccoli and Cheese Rice Bake
A variation where you can add additional vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition, while keeping the same creamy base.
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Quinoa
Swap out the white rice for quinoa for a nutritious twist, adding a nutty flavor that complements the creamy ingredients.
Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry
Use the same base ingredients in a quick stir-fry, incorporating soy sauce and sesame oil for an Asian-inspired dish.
Buffalo Chicken Casserole
Add buffalo sauce to the chicken mixture for a spicy kick, topped with blue cheese for a bold flavor profile.
Chicken and Rice Soup
Transform the casserole into a comforting soup by increasing the broth and simmering the mixture to create a hearty dish.
Vegetarian Version
Replace the chicken with chickpeas or white beans for a vegetarian-friendly dish that still delivers on the creamy goodness.
