Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan convenience: This casserole combines all your main ingredients in one dish, making preparation and cleanup a breeze.
- Big flavor, fast: The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and nutritious broccoli creates a flavorful meal that’s ready in under an hour.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the comforting taste and texture of this dish, making it a great option for family dinners.
- Versatile and adaptable: Easily customize this recipe to suit your dietary needs or preferences with simple ingredient swaps.
- Budget-friendly: Using common pantry staples and affordable ingredients, this casserole is a cost-effective meal option.
Ingredients & Preparation Notes
- Cooked rice: Long-grain rice works best for its fluffy texture. Cook the rice ahead of time or use leftover rice for convenience.
- Cooked chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken or cook your own. Shred or dice the chicken for even distribution throughout the casserole.
- Broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen broccoli works well. If using frozen, thaw and drain before adding to the casserole.
- Cream of chicken soup: This serves as the base for the creamy sauce. Look for low-sodium options if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, melty topping to the casserole. Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties for a unique flavor.
- Milk: Helps thin the soup into a sauce. Whole milk will provide the richest flavor, but you can use any type of milk.
- Garlic powder and onion powder: These add depth of flavor without the need for fresh garlic and onions.
For a dairy-free option, you can use a dairy-free cheese alternative and substitute the milk with a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk.
Professional Tips & Techniques
- Temperature control: Ensure your oven is properly preheated to 350°F (175°C) for even cooking. Use an oven thermometer if your oven tends to run hot or cold.
- Layering: Mix the ingredients well before transferring to the baking dish to ensure even distribution of flavors. The cheese should be sprinkled evenly over the top for a consistent golden crust.
- Doneness cues: The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges start to brown slightly. Use a food thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Avoid overcooking: Remove the casserole from the oven as soon as it’s done to prevent the rice from becoming mushy. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian version: Replace the chicken with an equal amount of cooked chickpeas or tofu for a meatless option.
- Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup or make your own sauce with gluten-free flour.
- Cheesy upgrade: Mix different types of cheese, like mozzarella and Parmesan, into the casserole for a more complex flavor profile.
- Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture for a spicy twist.
- Herb infusion: Stir in fresh or dried herbs like thyme or parsley for an aromatic enhancement.
- Low-carb: Substitute the rice with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb alternative.
- Seasonal twist: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like asparagus or peas for a fresh take on the classic recipe.
- Creamy mushroom: Replace the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor base.
Serving Suggestions
- Family dinner: Serve the casserole as the main dish, accompanied by a simple green salad and crusty bread.
- Potluck favorite: This dish travels well and can be easily doubled for larger gatherings.
- Weeknight meal: Pair with steamed vegetables or roasted carrots for a complete, balanced dinner.
- Presentation tip: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra pop of color and flavor.
- Pairing suggestion: A light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp beer complements the rich flavors of the casserole.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: The casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Make-ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the whole casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just add extra baking time if baking from cold.
Q: What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
A: You can make a homemade sauce using a roux of butter and flour, then adding chicken broth and milk. For a gluten-free option, use cornstarch instead of flour.
Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A: Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook. Ensure the rice is fully cooked before assembling the casserole.
Q: How do I know when the casserole is done?
A: The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
Q: What if I don’t have broccoli?
A: You can substitute with other cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower or even spinach for a different but equally nutritious option.
Q: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Swiss, or a blend of your favorites for a unique flavor.
Conclusion
This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is the perfect solution for a quick, delicious, and nutritious family meal. Its ease of preparation and versatility make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting flavors that everyone will love.
Don’t forget to share your experience and any tweaks you make on social media, and let us know how it turned out! For the best results, serve it fresh from the oven with a side of your favorite vegetables.
Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice preferably long-grain
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen
- 1 can cream of chicken soup 10.5 oz
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, cooked chicken, and broccoli florets. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the soup mixture over the rice, chicken, and broccoli. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.