Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, nutritious broccoli, and creamy cheese sauce. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings, and it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a comforting meal that everyone will love!
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
- 1/2 cup Heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup Milk
- 1 bag Frozen broccoli
- Panko bread crumbs (optional)
Instructions
Preparing the Casserole
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- Cook Instant Rice: In a saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Stir in the instant rice, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: If the chicken is not already cooked, you can cook it by boiling, baking, or using a rotisserie chicken. Shred the cooked chicken and set aside.
- Steam Broccoli: Steam the frozen broccoli according to the package instructions until tender. Drain any excess water and set aside.
Making the Cheese Sauce
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the cream of onion soup, cream of chicken soup, heavy whipping cream, and milk. Stir until well combined and heated through.
- Add Cheese: Cut the Velveeta cheese into cubes and add them to the saucepan. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Remove from heat.
Assembling the Casserole
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, cooked instant rice, steamed broccoli, and cheese sauce. Mix until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
Optional Topping
- Add Bread Crumbs: If desired, sprinkle a layer of panko bread crumbs over the top of the casserole for added crunch and texture.
Baking
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly around the edges.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or extra cheese if desired.
Cooking Notes and Variations
Cooking Notes:
- Cheese Sauce: Be sure to stir the cheese sauce continuously to prevent it from burning or sticking to the bottom of the saucepan.
- Broccoli: You can use fresh broccoli instead of frozen if preferred. Simply steam or blanch it until tender before adding it to the casserole.
Variations:
- Add Bacon: For extra flavor, add cooked and crumbled bacon to the casserole before baking.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of this casserole.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use regular rice instead of instant rice?
A: Yes, you can use regular rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio accordingly. Cook the rice separately according to package instructions before adding it to the casserole.
Q: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours. Bake it as directed when ready to serve.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: While Velveeta cheese melts smoothly and creates a creamy texture, you can substitute it with cheddar, mozzarella, or any other cheese of your choice.
Q: Can I omit the cream soups?
A: If you prefer to avoid cream soups, you can make a homemade cheese sauce using a roux (butter and flour) and milk, then add your favorite seasonings and cheese.
Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, fluffy rice, and nutritious broccoli, this casserole is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Whether served as a main course or side dish, this easy-to-make recipe is guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Try making this delicious casserole today and enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal!
