Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting and nutritious dish that's perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week. This creamy casserole combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and fluffy rice, all enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient and delicious meal option. Follow this detailed recipe to create a hearty Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
• 1 cup uncooked rice
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup milk
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Optional: ¼ cup breadcrumbs for topping

Preparation

Step 1: Cook the Rice

1. Rinse and Cook: Rinse 1 cup of uncooked rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook the rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, set it aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli

1. Cook the Chicken: If you don’t have pre-cooked chicken, you can cook 2 chicken breasts by boiling or baking them until fully cooked. Shred the chicken once it’s cool enough to handle.
2. Steam the Broccoli: Steam the broccoli florets until they are tender but still bright green, about 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

1. Sauté: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Mix the Casserole Ingredients

1. Combine Soups and Dairy: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and sour cream. Mix until well blended.
2. Add Seasonings: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
3. Add Other Ingredients: Add the cooked rice, shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, sautéed onions, and garlic to the bowl. Mix everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
3. Optional Topping: If desired, sprinkle ¼ cup of breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole for a crunchy topping.
4. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
5. Cool: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking Note

• Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.
• Freezer Friendly: You can also freeze the assembled casserole before baking. When ready to cook, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Pair this casserole with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Bread: Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Condiments: A side of hot sauce or a dollop of extra sour cream can add an extra layer of flavor.

Tips

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Add other vegetables like diced carrots, peas, or corn to the casserole for added nutrition and variety.
• Seasoning: Adjust the seasonings to your taste. A little bit of Italian seasoning or thyme can add a nice touch.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 350
• Protein: 25 grams
• Sodium: 600 milligrams

Conclusion

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a wholesome and satisfying dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Its creamy texture, combined with the flavors of chicken, broccoli, and cheese, creates a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With easy preparation steps and the ability to make it ahead of time, this casserole is as convenient as it is delicious. Enjoy this delightful dish and savor the comforting flavors it brings to your table!

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