Imagine a bubbling, golden casserole straight out of the oven, the aroma of tender chicken mingling with rich, melted cheese and vibrant broccoli. The moment you dig in, you encounter a delightful mix of flavors and textures that dance on your palate. Every bite is a cozy hug from the inside, making it the perfect dish for those chilly evenings or family gatherings.
When I first made this chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole for my friends, their eyes lit up like Christmas lights. It was one of those moments where everyone was too busy devouring their plates to engage in conversation. The casserole became an instant hit, and let me tell you, it’s been requested more times than I can count since then.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole is incredibly easy to prepare and takes only about 30 minutes of hands-on time
- The cheesy goodness creates a flavor explosion that even picky eaters will love
- Visually appealing with its bright green broccoli and creamy cheese blend, it steals the show at any dinner table
- This versatile dish works great as leftovers or can be frozen for future meals
I remember the first time I served this dish; my friends were practically fighting over the last scoop!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about three to four breasts but feel free to adjust based on your crowd size.
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Fresh Broccoli Florets: Choose vibrant green florets; they add color and crunch to our casserole.
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Long-Grain Rice: Opt for uncooked long-grain rice; it absorbs flavors beautifully during cooking.
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Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for a robust flavor that pairs perfectly with chicken.
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Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth helps control salt levels while adding moisture and depth.
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Sour Cream: This ingredient adds creaminess; Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier substitute.
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Onion Powder: A dash of onion powder enhances flavor without the chopping hassle.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that brighten all the flavors in this dish.
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Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a lovely warmth; it’s a secret weapon in my kitchen!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a baking dish (about 9×13 inches) and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray to ensure nothing gets stuck.
Prepare the Chicken: Cut your boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season them generously with salt and pepper before browning them in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and cooked through.
Cook the Rice: In a separate pot, cook your long-grain rice according to package instructions using chicken broth instead of water for added flavor. The aroma will make your kitchen smell divine!
Add Broccoli: While your rice cooks, steam fresh broccoli florets until they are bright green and just tender—around five minutes should do it. You want them to retain some crunch for texture.
Create the Cheesy Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, cooked rice, sour cream, cheddar cheese (reserving some for topping), onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir until everything is well coated in cheesy goodness.
Bake Your Casserole: Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top before sliding it into the preheated oven. Bake for about 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Serve hot from the oven—you won’t believe how delicious this chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole is! Your family will be begging for seconds (and maybe even thirds).
This recipe not only warms the heart but also fills hungry bellies without breaking a sweat in the kitchen! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
You Must Know
- The chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole is a comfort food classic, combining creamy textures with savory flavors
- Perfect for weeknight dinners, it brings everyone to the table with its aroma and cheesy goodness
- It’s a one-dish wonder that makes cooking feel effortless
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the chicken in a skillet, then prepare the rice while sautéing broccoli. Combine everything in a baking dish for perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or add different veggies like bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, maintaining that creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use cooked chicken to save time; it’ll mix better with other ingredients
- Don’t over-rice!
- A little chewiness adds texture
- Lastly, let it rest before serving; it helps flavors meld beautifully
Cooking this casserole always brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone would race to the table, forks poised and ready for cheesy goodness.
FAQ
Can I make chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it ahead and refrigerate before baking when you’re ready to serve.
What can I substitute for cheese?
Try nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for alternatives without sacrificing flavor.
How long should I bake my casserole?
Bake at 350°F for about 30-35 minutes until golden and bubbly on top, ensuring everything is heated through.
Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in a comforting Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheddar cheese for a dish that feels like a warm hug. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this easy-to-make casserole is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. With minimal prep time and the ability to freeze leftovers, it’s a delicious solution for busy nights!
Ingredients
- 3 cups boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook cubed chicken until golden brown. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook rice in chicken broth according to package instructions.
- Steam broccoli florets until bright green and just tender (about 5 minutes).
- In a large bowl, mix cooked chicken, rice, steamed broccoli, sour cream, cheddar cheese (reserve some for topping), onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Spread mixture evenly in the baking dish and top with reserved cheese. Bake for 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
