Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners. This casserole combines tender shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and nutritious broccoli for a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. Let’s dive into the step-by-step recipe to create this classic comfort food casserole.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shredded chicken
- 2 cups instant rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can cream of onion soup
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese food, cubed
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 bag frozen broccoli, thawed and drained
- Panko bread crumbs, optional
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Cook Chicken:
- If using raw chicken, cook and shred it. You can poach the chicken breasts in water or broth, bake, or use a rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
- Cook Instant Rice:
- Prepare the instant rice according to the package instructions using the chicken broth instead of water for added flavor. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- Melt Butter:
- In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add Soups:
- Stir in the cream of onion soup and cream of chicken soup until well combined.
- Add Cheese and Cream:
- Add the cubed Velveeta cheese, heavy whipping cream, and milk. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, cheese sauce, and thawed broccoli. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Baking Dish:
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Layer Casserole:
- Pour the chicken, rice, and broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Add Bread Crumbs:
- If using, sprinkle panko bread crumbs evenly over the top of the casserole for a crunchy topping.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
- Bake:
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until it is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Step 7: Serve
- Cool Slightly:
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve:
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Chicken Options: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook chicken breasts or thighs according to your preference.
- Cheese: Velveeta cheese provides a creamy texture, but you can substitute with shredded cheddar or a cheese blend if preferred.
- Broccoli: Fresh broccoli can be used instead of frozen. Simply blanch it before adding to the casserole.
Variations
Spicy Version
- Add Heat:
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Version
- Meatless Option:
- Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Low-Carb Version
- Rice Substitute:
- Use cauliflower rice instead of instant rice for a lower-carb option.
Serving Suggestions
With a Side Salad
- Salad:
- Serve with a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole.
With Garlic Bread
- Bread:
- Pair with warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette for a complete meal.
With Roasted Vegetables
- Vegetables:
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Q: What if I don’t have Velveeta cheese? A: You can substitute with shredded cheddar cheese or a cheese blend. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
Q: Can I use fresh broccoli? A: Yes, fresh broccoli can be used. Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for a few minutes until tender, then drain and add to the casserole.
Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and nutritious broccoli, this casserole is sure to be a family favorite. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious recipe with your loved ones!
