Chicken Broccoli Cheesy Rice Casserole – Easy & Quick!

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole fresh out of the oven. Among the myriad of casserole recipes, the Broccoli Cheesy Rice Casserole stands out as a timeless favorite. This dish combines tender pieces of cooked chicken, crisp broccoli florets, and fluffy rice, all enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. It’s not just a meal; it’s a hug on a plate.

In this article, we’ll delve into the details of crafting this delightful casserole, explore its nutritional benefits, and answer some common questions to ensure your cooking experience is as smooth as the melted cheese atop this dish.

Ingredients Breakdown

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients that make this casserole a standout:

• Cooked Chicken (2 cups, shredded): Provides a hearty source of protein, making the dish satisfying and nutritious.
• Fresh Broccoli Florets (2 cups): Adds a vibrant green color and a wealth of vitamins, including vitamin C and fiber.
• Cooked Rice (2 cups, white or brown): Serves as the starchy base, absorbing the flavors of the sauce. Brown rice offers additional fiber and nutrients.
• Onion (1 small, chopped): Imparts a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Enhances the overall taste with its aromatic qualities.
• Unsalted Butter (2 tbsp): Used for sautéing and adds a rich, buttery flavor.
• Cream of Chicken Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): Acts as the creamy base for the sauce, binding all ingredients together.
• Milk (1/2 cup): Thins the soup to create a smooth sauce consistency.
• Salt (1/2 tsp) & Black Pepper (1/4 tsp): Essential seasonings that enhance and balance the flavors.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 1/2 cups, divided): Melts into the sauce for creaminess and provides a gooey, cheesy topping.
• Panko Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup, optional): Offers a crunchy texture contrast when used as a topping.
• Fresh Parsley (1 tbsp, chopped): A fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Creating this casserole is straightforward. Here’s how to bring it all together:

1. Sauté Aromatics:
   • In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic.
   • Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   • To the pan, add the cream of chicken soup and milk.
   • Season with salt and black pepper.
   • Stir well until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
   • Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
3. Combine Main Ingredients:
   • Add the shredded chicken, cooked rice, fresh broccoli florets, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese to the pan.
   • Gently stir until all components are well coated with the creamy sauce.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
   • Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
   • For an added crunch, evenly distribute the panko breadcrumbs over the cheese layer.
5. Bake and Serve:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
   • Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
   • Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors!

Nutritional Highlights

Understanding the nutritional value of your meals is essential. Here’s what this casserole offers per serving:

• Calories: Approximately 520 kcal
• Protein: A substantial amount from the chicken and cheese, supporting muscle maintenance.
• Carbohydrates: Provided by the rice, offering energy to fuel your day.
• Fats: Derived from the cheese and butter, contributing to satiety and flavor.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Broccoli adds fiber, vitamin C, and other essential nutrients, enhancing the dish’s health benefits.

Tips and Variations

• Rice Selection: For a creamier consistency, we recommend using white long-grain rice. Avoid using minute rice, as it can result in a mushier texture.
• Broccoli Options: Both fresh and frozen broccoli florets work well in this recipe. If using frozen broccoli, ensure it’s thawed and patted dry to remove excess moisture.
• Cheese Choices: Freshly shredding your cheese from a block yields the best melting results. Sharp cheddar provides a robust flavor, but feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack.
• Make-Ahead Instructions:
  • Refrigeration: Assemble the casserole as directed, but do not bake. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as directed, adding an extra 15 minutes to the baking time.
  • Freezing: Assemble the casserole without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator for 24 hours before baking. Allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as directed, adding an extra 15 minutes to the baking time.
• Storage and Reheating: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

FAQs