Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

The Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is a hearty and delicious dish that combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and creamy cheese with the comforting goodness of rice. This casserole is a complete meal in itself and is perfect for family dinners or as a comforting meal during colder months.

Ingredients:

1. 2 cups cooked rice
2. 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
3. 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
4. 2 cups broccoli florets
5. 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
6. ½ cup milk
7. ½ cup breadcrumbs
8. 2 tablespoons butter, melted
9. Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, and broccoli florets. Mix these ingredients well.

Step 3: In another bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup and milk until smooth. Pour this mixture over the rice, chicken, and broccoli. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 5: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole mixture.

Step 6: In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer. This will add a crunchy texture to the top of the casserole.

Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown.

COOKING Note: If you notice the top of the casserole getting too brown before the cooking time is up, you can cover it with aluminum foil to prevent further browning.

Serving Suggestions: Serve this casserole hot, perhaps with a side salad or some crusty bread. It's a filling meal on its own but pairs well with light sides.

Tips:

1. For a healthier version, you can use brown rice and low-fat cheese.
2. If you want a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and add more vegetables like carrots or cauliflower.
3. Leftover casserole can be stored in the refrigerator and reheats well in the microwave or oven.
4. You can add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the casserole mixture for additional flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: Approximately 300-350 per serving.
• Protein: Approximately 20-25 grams per serving.
• Sodium: Approximately 500-700 mg per serving, depending on the salt content of the soup and cheese.

Conclusion: The Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. It's a great way to incorporate vegetables into a meal that is loved by both adults and children. The combination of creamy cheese, tender chicken, and hearty rice makes this casserole a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.