Why make this recipe
Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Rice Casserole is a great choice for a family meal. It combines tender chicken, creamy rice, and nutritious broccoli with the rich flavor of cheddar cheese. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. It’s a one-pot meal that satisfies hunger and pleases both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use up leftover chicken!
How to make Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Rice Casserole
Ingredients :
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup breadcrumbs for topping
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added texture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to serve Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Rice Casserole
Serve the casserole hot, straight from the oven. You can pair it with a fresh salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. This casserole makes great leftovers and can be easily reheated for a quick lunch or dinner.
How to store Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Rice Casserole
To store leftover casserole, let it cool down to room temperature. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to make Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Rice Casserole
- For extra flavor, consider adding cooked onions or bell peppers to the mix.
- You can use other types of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for a different taste.
- Make it a complete meal by adding more vegetables like carrots or peas.
Variation
You can make this casserole with different proteins. Ground turkey or beef can be used instead of chicken. For a vegetarian option, skip the meat and just increase the amount of broccoli or add other vegetables.
FAQs
Can I use uncooked rice?
It’s best to use pre-cooked rice for this recipe. Uncooked rice may not cook through properly with the casserole.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance, cover it, and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
You can use cream of mushroom soup or a homemade white sauce as a substitute if you’re looking for a different flavor or need a vegetarian option.
Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Use leftover chicken for convenience.
- 2 cups cooked rice Preferably use leftover rice.
- 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed Fresh or frozen broccoli can be used.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded Shredded cheese melts better.
- 1 can cream of chicken soup Can substitute with cream of mushroom soup.
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional) For topping.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added texture.
Cooking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.