Healthy and delicious chicken broccoli casserole recipe
Looking for a hearty, delicious casserole recipe that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than my Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole! This savory and satisfying dish is packed with flavor and always sure to be a hit at family dinners, potlucks, and other gatherings.
With tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and nutritious broccoli all baked together in a creamy cheese sauce, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food. And best of all, it’s easy to make – perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and tasty meal that won’t take hours to prepare.
Whether you’re serving this casserole as the main course or as a side dish, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get ready to whip up a delicious Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s nothing more satisfying than a meal that is both delicious and easy to make, and this Chicken, Broccoli, Rice Casserole Recipe perfectly fits the bill. With a cheesy, savory and creamy flavour, this casserole is sure to become one of your favourites!
Firstly, the ingredients in this recipe are easy to find and put together. The recipe calls for chicken breasts, frozen broccoli, uncooked rice, butter and milk – items that you probably already have in your pantry or fridge. And the addition of Velveeta cheese adds a touch of indulgence without being overwhelming.
Secondly, this casserole is perfect for meal planning and batch cooking. You can easily double or triple the recipe to have leftovers for the next day. Plus, it freezes well! You can prepare it in advance and pop it in the freezer until you’re ready to use it.
Thirdly, this casserole is versatile in its serving options. You can serve it as a main dish on its own or pair it with a side salad or garlic bread sticks to elevate the meal. It’s also perfect for potlucks or dinner parties where guests can help themselves to as much or as little as they’d like.
Lastly, this recipe allows for customization based on your preferences. You can substitute brown rice for wild rice or add some crushed corn flakes on top for added crunch. And if you’re looking for healthier options, you can swap out the Velveeta cheese for cheddar cheese or use chicken thighs instead of breasts.
In conclusion, there are plenty of reasons why you’ll love adding this Chicken, Broccoli, Rice Casserole Recipe to your kitchen arsenal. It’s easy to make, customizable and perfect for meal planning – plus its cheesy and creamy flavour is sure to satisfy any cravings!
Ingredient List
Here’s a breakdown of all the ingredients you’ll need to make this easy and delicious Chicken, Broccoli, Rice Casserole Recipe:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer.
- Butter or margarine: I recommend using unsalted butter or margarine.
- Onion, chopped: For added flavor and texture.
- Broth Rice: This gives the dish extra flavor. You can also use chicken broth or water.
- Cream of chicken soup: I suggest using one can of cream of chicken soup.
- Milk: Any type of milk will work. I prefer to use whole milk for a creamier consistency.
- Velveeta cheese: This processed cheese adds creaminess and tanginess to the dish. You can substitute it with any melting cheese of your choice.
- Frozen broccoli, chopped: Using frozen broccoli makes things easier, but fresh broccoli works too.
- Uncooked rice: Any type of rice will work, but I recommend using white or brown rice for this recipe.
- Salt and pepper
This recipe is versatile, so feel free to switch up ingredients to make it your own.
The Recipe How-To
Step 1: Preheat oven and prepare baking dish
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly butter or spray a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking.
Step 2: Cook rice and chicken
In a large pot, cook 2 cups of uncooked rice according to package instructions. While the rice is cooking, season 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then steam or bake until fully cooked. Once the chicken is tender and cooked through, dice it into small pieces.
Tip: Use an instant pot to quickly cook the chicken for a one-pot meal.
Step 3: Cook broccoli
In a separate pot, cook 2 cups of frozen chopped broccoli or �fresh broccoli florets until just tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess water.
Step 4: Make sauce
To make the sauce, melt � cup of butter/margarine in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent for about 2-3 minutes. Sprinkle in � cup of flour to make it into a roux. Pour in � cup of chicken broth, then slowly whisk in 2 cups of milk until fully combined. Stir in 1 can of cream of chicken soup, sautéed onions, and add in grated Velveeta cheese.
Tip: Substitute Velveeta cheese with your favorite cheese variety such as cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for added flavor.
Step 5: Combine ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked rice, diced cooked chicken, and cooked broccoli. Pour the creamy sauce over the top and stir evenly to combine all ingredients.
Step 6: Bake
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Cover tightly with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes, then remove the foil continue baking for another 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Tip: To create a crispy topping and added crunch, top with crushed corn flakes or breadcrumbs before baking.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about this chicken, broccoli, and rice casserole recipe is how easy it is to customize it according to your tastes or pantry items. Here are a few substitution and variation ideas that you can try:
– Cheese: If you’re not a fan of Velveeta cheese, feel free to use another type of cheese such as cheddar, mozzarella, or even goat cheese. You can also mix and match cheeses for a more complex flavor.
– Broccoli: While frozen chopped broccoli is the most convenient option for this recipe, you can also use fresh broccoli florets (blanched first), or even substitute it with other vegetables such as cauliflower, spinach, or green beans.
– Chicken: You can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a juicier and more flavorful result. You can also swap chicken with turkey, pork, or shrimp. If you’re short on time or want to make it vegetarian-friendly, skip the chicken altogether or replace it with tofu.
– Rice: Instead of using white rice or brown rice, you can try wild rice or basmati rice for a different texture and aroma. You can also cook the rice separately and add it to the casserole afterwards if you prefer.
– Creamy sauce: The creamy sauce in this recipe is made with cream of chicken soup and milk, but you can experiment with other types of condensed soups such as cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or cheddar soup. You can also substitute milk with heavy cream or half-and-half for a richer taste.
Remember that every ingredient substitution or variation will impact the final taste and texture of the casserole; so always taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly.
Serving and Pairing
The Chicken, Broccoli, Rice Casserole is a versatile and hearty dish that can be served on any occasion. One of the best things about this casserole is that it can be paired with different sides that complement its savory and creamy flavors. Whether you want to serve it as a main course or as a side dish, this casserole recipe will please your palate.
To create a balanced meal, you can serve the Chicken, Broccoli, Rice Casserole with a green salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables. For a colorful and tasty side, you can make caramelized carrots, roasted Brussels sprouts, or grilled asparagus. These sides will complement the comforting textures of the casserole while providing additional nutrients.
If you’re looking for a more casual presentation or serving ideas for parties or potlucks, you might try pairing the casserole with chips and salsa, tortilla strips or cornbread muffins. You can also add a touch of sweetness by serving fresh fruit, such as seasonal berries or sliced mango.
This casserole is also an excellent choice for meal prep since it can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month. If you plan to prepare it in advance and reheat it later on busy weekdays, some great options would include pairing it up with coleslaw, mashed potatoes or steamed broccoli.
No matter how you choose to serve it or pair it up, this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole recipe brings the perfect balance of healthy ingredients along with savory creamy goodness. It is sure to become one of your family’s favorite comfort-food dishes!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
This Chicken, Broccoli, Rice Casserole recipe is perfect for meal prepping or making ahead for an upcoming event or party. It can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to be reheated.
When it comes to reheating, there are multiple ways to achieve perfect results. One option is to reheat the casserole in the oven by preheating at 350°F, covering the dish with foil and baking it for approximately 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Another technique is to reheat individual portions in the microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Storing leftovers is easy as well. Simply store any remaining casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When ready to reheat, do so using one of the methods mentioned above.
If you’re planning ahead for an event, consider doubling the recipe and freezing one batch for later use. To freeze the casserole, let it cool down completely before wrapping tightly with foil or cling wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe container. The frozen casserole will last up to three months.
When deciding on make-ahead techniques or storing options, it is crucial not to compromise on quality. This delicious Chicken, Broccoli, Rice Casserole recipe is rich in flavor and deserves to be stored accordingly. Following these simple tips will ensure that the casserole maintains its savory taste no matter how many times it’s reheated or how long it’s been kept in storage.
Tips for Perfect Results
Preparing a satisfying chicken, broccoli and rice casserole is one of the most challenging kitchen tasks. But take heart – it doesn’t have to be! With these tips for perfect results, you can make this dish easily and impress your guests.
To ensure that your dish comes out flawlessly, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper before cooking them. The right seasoning brings out the flavors of the other ingredients in the dish. Mix the salt and pepper well and rub it on both sides of the chicken breasts.
Another thing to remember is not to overcook or undercook your rice. Cook your uncooked rice until it has reached its perfect texture. You can prepare it separately, or cook it with the other ingredients in a baking dish or an instant pot. Remember that rice absorbs water quickly, and you don’t want it to become mushy or undercooked.
If you have a little more time, shred your own cheese from a block of cheddar instead of using pre-shredded cheese. Freshly shredded cheese will melt better than packaged varieties as they tend to have added starches that prevent them from melting smoothly.
Using high-quality ingredients is key for this casserole to taste exceptional. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for convenience, but feel free to substitute chicken thighs if you prefer. Be sure to use fresh or frozen broccoli instead of canned so that the broccoli retains its crispness.
Finally, let your casserole cool for at least 10-15 minutes before you cut into it to allow everything to settle down. This will ensure that all the liquid has been absorbed properly by the rice grain for a creamy texture without any runny parts.
With these tips in mind, you’re now prepared to make a delicious chicken, broccoli, and rice casserole that will satisfy all taste buds.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this chicken, broccoli, rice casserole recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone who loves savory creamy dishes. With its delicious ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit at any party or family gathering. Its flexibility makes it perfect for any budget, time constraint or taste preference.
Whether you are a beginner or experienced cook, you will find this recipe easy and enjoyable to implement. The substitution and variation suggestions in this article give you the flexibility to create new versions of this recipe that appeal to your specific taste buds. Plus, the make-ahead, storing and reheating tips in this recipe ensure that you can enjoy it over multiple meals.
So what are you waiting for? Gather the ingredients, preheat the oven or instant pot, and start making this cheesy and creamy chicken broccoli rice casserole. It’s easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. And don’t forget to share it with your friends and family!
Chicken, Broccoli, Rice Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 (8 ounce) box chicken rice-a-roni
- 2 large chicken breasts, cooked & cubed
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen broccoli
- 1 1/4 cups Velveeta cheese
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- 4 tablespoons butter or 4 tablespoons margarine
- crushed potato chips, for topping
Instructions
- Cook rice-a-roni according to pkg directions cook broccoli Put 1st 4 ingredients in order in a 9X13 pan Combine soup, milk& butter Pour soup mixture over chicken mixture Bake 350 for 40 minutes uncovered Place crushed potato chips on& bake 15 min longer.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Anna is a culinary expert who specializes in grilling delicious BBQ dishes. She also enjoys sharing her recipes and experiences with her foodie community on her blog. She’s the total package for any backyard barbecue!