Chicken broccoli and rice casserole is like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine tender chicken, sweet broccoli, and fluffy rice mingling together in a creamy sauce that dances with flavors. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, teasing your taste buds and promising comfort with every bite. crock pot chicken recipes It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like everything is right in the world, even if it’s just for a moment.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for chicken broccoli and rice casserole
- How to Make chicken broccoli and rice casserole
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs:
- What is chicken broccoli and rice casserole?
- How long does it take to cook chicken broccoli and rice casserole?
- Can I make chicken broccoli and rice casserole ahead of time?
- What can I serve with chicken broccoli and rice casserole?
- Conclusion for chicken broccoli and rice casserole:
- 📖 Recipe Card
This delightful casserole brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter echoed over the dinner table. Picture it: bowls piled high with this colorful medley, everyone reaching for seconds because who can resist? It’s a dish perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy get-togethers, ensuring you’ll leave the table fully satisfied and perhaps even planning your next helping.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chicken broccoli and rice casserole is a breeze to whip up, making weeknight dinners stress-free.
- The creamy sauce creates a flavorful combination that even picky eaters will adore.
- With its vibrant colors and hearty ingredients, it looks as good as it tastes!
- Plus, you can easily customize it to include whatever veggies you have on hand.
Ingredients for chicken broccoli and rice casserole
broccoli chicken casserole variation.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Typically, 3-4 chicken breasts work well for this recipe; adjust based on your family size.
- Fresh Broccoli Florets: Use crisp florets for that perfect crunch; fresh is best but frozen works too in a pinch!
- Long-Grain White Rice: This provides the ideal texture; make sure to rinse it before cooking for fluffiness.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: A key ingredient that adds creaminess and flavor; opt for low-sodium options if you’re watching your salt.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Adds a gooey, cheesy layer that elevates this dish; go for sharp cheddar for an extra kick.
For the Seasoning:
- Garlic Powder: A must-have for flavor; it’s always better than fresh garlic when you’re short on time.
- Onion Powder: This adds depth without the chopping hassle—perfect for busy cooks.
End with: “The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.”
How to Make chicken broccoli and rice casserole
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a baking dish and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray to ensure nothing sticks.
Step 2: Prepare Your Chicken
Season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This will infuse them with flavor while they bake.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
In a medium saucepan, cook the long-grain white rice according to package instructions. You want it fluffy but not overly soft since it will continue cooking in the oven.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together cooked rice, chopped broccoli florets, cream of chicken soup, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well combined.
Step 5: Layer It Up
Spread half of your rice mixture into the prepared baking dish. Place seasoned chicken breasts on top before adding the remaining rice mixture over them.
Step 6: Bake It
Cover with aluminum foil and bake in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle remaining cheese on top, then bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every comforting bite of your homemade chicken broccoli and rice casserole! For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken broccoli and rice casserole offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the rice while you sauté the chicken and broccoli. Once they’re all cooked, mix them together, add your creamy sauce, and bake until bubbly for the best results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or even add some fun extras like cheese, nuts, or your favorite spices to customize this delicious casserole to your taste!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through, ensuring that it remains creamy and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always season your chicken before cooking for maximum flavor; it makes a world of difference.
- Avoid overcooking the broccoli; it should remain tender-crisp for the best texture.
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time without sacrificing taste.
During a family gathering last summer, my uncle declared this chicken broccoli and rice casserole “the dish that saved Thanksgiving!” It became an instant classic at our feasts since then!
FAQs:
What is chicken broccoli and rice casserole?
Chicken broccoli and rice casserole is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and fluffy rice, all baked together in a creamy sauce. This one-pan meal not only satisfies your hunger but also provides a balanced mix of protein and vegetables. The convenience of preparing this casserole makes it a popular choice for busy families looking for an easy weeknight dinner.
How long does it take to cook chicken broccoli and rice casserole?
Typically, chicken broccoli and rice casserole takes about 45 to 50 minutes to bake in the oven. Preparation time can vary depending on how quickly you can chop the vegetables and cook the chicken. Once assembled, baking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a deliciously creamy dish that’s ready to serve.
Can I make chicken broccoli and rice casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare chicken broccoli and rice casserole ahead of time. Simply assemble the ingredients in a baking dish, cover it with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This is an excellent option for meal prep or when entertaining guests, allowing you to save time on busy days.
What can I serve with chicken broccoli and rice casserole?
While chicken broccoli and rice casserole is hearty enough on its own, you might want to add a fresh side salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal. A light vinaigrette salad complements the richness of the casserole perfectly. Alternatively, steamed vegetables can enhance the nutritional value while keeping the meal balanced.
Conclusion for chicken broccoli and rice casserole:
In conclusion, chicken broccoli and rice casserole is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and fluffy rice in one easy-to-make recipe. Its versatility allows for preparation ahead of time, making it perfect for busy evenings. Mexican chicken and rice dish By adding sides like salads or bread, you can create a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy. Try this comforting recipe tonight for a satisfying family dinner!
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken broccoli and rice casserole is a heartwarming dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and fluffy rice in a creamy sauce. This easy, one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, ensuring satisfaction with every bite. With simple preparation and customizable ingredients, this casserole is destined to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked long-grain white rice
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Cook the rice according to package instructions until fluffy.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, chopped broccoli, cream of chicken soup, and half of the cheddar cheese.
- Layer half of the rice mixture in the baking dish, place seasoned chicken on top, then add the remaining rice mixture.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle with remaining cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
