Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole: The Perfect Comfort Food for Busy Weeknights
Looking for a delicious, wholesome, and family-friendly meal that comes together quickly? This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with protein and vegetables. It’s an all-in-one meal that you can prepare in advance, making it ideal for meal prep, busy evenings, or cozy weekend dinners.
In this detailed recipe, we’ll walk you through everything from the health benefits of the ingredients to step-by-step cooking instructions, plus optional upgrades and freezing tips. Let’s dive in.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Uses simple, everyday ingredients.
- One Pan Meal: Protein, carbs, and veggies all in one dish.
- Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.
- Customizable: Add other veggies or use your favorite cheese.
Health Benefits of the Main Ingredients
- Chicken: A lean source of protein that keeps you full and supports muscle growth.
- Broccoli: Rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants that boost immunity and aid digestion.
- Rice: Provides lasting energy with complex carbs (use brown rice for added fiber).
- Cheddar Cheese: Adds flavor and calcium for strong bones.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: Creates a creamy base and brings all the ingredients together.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 2 cups broccoli florets, lightly steamed
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2% recommended)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- Butter or cooking spray (for greasing the baking dish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, and cooked rice. Add in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is fully combined and coated with the creamy mixture.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly into a flat layer.
Step 4: Add Toppings
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. If you like a crispy topping, add breadcrumbs over the cheese for extra texture and crunch.
Step 5: Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling, and the top turns slightly golden.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole firm up for easy slicing.
Optional Add-Ins:
- Chopped mushrooms for extra earthiness
- Frozen peas or corn for color and sweetness
- Cooked bacon bits for smoky flavor
- Hot sauce or red pepper flakes if you like heat
Make-Ahead & Freezing Tips
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Just bake when ready.
- Freezer-Friendly: You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.
What to Serve With Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
This dish is hearty enough on its own, but it pairs beautifully with:
- A fresh green salad
- Garlic bread
- Roasted carrots or steamed green beans
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is more than just a quick fix — it’s a warm, satisfying dish that brings comfort to the table. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, it’s a versatile recipe that you’ll come back to again and again. Garlic Butter Steak with Cheesy Herb Pasta
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