Irresistible Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

Aromas of melted cheese, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli waft through your kitchen as you prepare this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole. Picture a warm bowl of comfort that is creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying—a dish that wraps around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening.

This casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Whether you’re hosting family game night or simply trying to woo your taste buds after a long day, this delightful dish promises to lift spirits and fill bellies with its hearty ingredients and delectable flavors.

Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts will work nicely, depending on your crowd size. Look for fresh cuts for the best results.
• Fresh Broccoli: Choose bright green florets; they should be firm and crisp for optimal texture in your casserole.
• Long-Grain White Rice: This type of rice cooks perfectly fluffy and pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Cheddar Cheese: Grate your own if possible—nothing beats that fresh cheesy flavor that melts beautifully throughout the dish.
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over the overall saltiness in your casserole.
• Onion Powder: A warm hint of onion elevates the flavor profile without overpowering other ingredients.
• Garlic Powder: A must-have seasoning to add depth; opt for fresh garlic if you want a stronger punch!
• Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper will add just the right amount of heat without being overwhelming.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a trusty baking dish and spray it lightly with nonstick cooking spray to prevent those gooey cheese bits from sticking around.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, sear them until they’re golden brown on both sides—about three minutes per side should do the trick.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

While you’re working on the chicken, cook your long-grain white rice according to package instructions using chicken broth instead of water. This will infuse every grain with flavor!

Step 4: Mix It All Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, chopped broccoli florets (lightly steamed if you prefer), half of your cheddar cheese (because we all know more cheese is always better), onion powder, garlic powder, and pepper. Stir until everything is well coated with cheesy goodness.

Step 5: Assemble Your Casserole

Layer half of the rice mixture in your prepared baking dish. Place seared chicken breasts on top before adding the remaining rice mixture like it’s frosting on a cake—delicious!

Step 6: Bake

Cover your masterpiece with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese over the top; bake uncovered for an additional ten minutes until bubbling and golden brown.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with some extra chicken broth if desired for that saucy finish! Enjoy diving into this wonderful Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole that brings warmth and joy in every bite.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve cheesy perfection, start by cooking the chicken until golden brown. While that sizzles, boil the rice and steam your broccoli. Then, combine everything with a creamy sauce for the ultimate cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole experience.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to get creative! Swap out chicken for turkey or even beef. Add extra veggies like bell peppers or carrots, or sprinkle in some garlic powder for an extra kick. The possibilities are as endless as your imagination!

Storing & Reheating

Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or oven until warmed through, ensuring that cheesy goodness is restored without drying out.

I recall the first time I made this cheesy delight for my friends. They devoured every last bite and insisted I should start a catering business! The laughter and compliments made all the effort worthwhile, turning a simple recipe into cherished memories.

FAQs:

What is Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and fluffy rice, all smothered in a rich and creamy cheese sauce. This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights as it’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or spices, making it a versatile choice for family dinners.

Can I make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole ahead of time. Assemble the casserole and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, simply remove the cover and bake as directed. This makes it an ideal option for meal prep or holiday gatherings.

What can I use instead of cheese in Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

If you prefer a non-dairy option or have dietary restrictions, consider using plant-based cheese alternatives when making Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole. Nutritional yeast is another great option, providing a cheesy flavor without dairy. You can also experiment with sauces made from cashews or blended silken tofu mixed with spices for added creaminess.

Can I freeze Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

Absolutely! Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole freezes well. Once baked and cooled completely, portion the casserole into airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the oven until heated through.

Conclusion for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole:

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a delightful dish that brings together chicken, broccoli, and rice in a creamy cheese sauce that everyone will love. You can easily prepare this casserole ahead of time or customize it with your favorite vegetables. Don’t hesitate to try freezing leftovers for an easy meal later on. Enjoy this hearty recipe as a comforting family dinner any night of the week!

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Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and fluffy rice in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this one-pot meal is easy to prepare and sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With its delightful blend of flavors and textures, it promises to be a hit at your dinner table!

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Ingredients

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• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, sear the chicken until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side.
3. Cook rice according to package instructions using chicken broth instead of water.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, chopped broccoli, half of the cheddar cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, and pepper; mix well.
5. Layer half of the rice mixture in the baking dish, place seared chicken on top, then add remaining rice mixture.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle with remaining cheddar cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/6 casserole (approx. 250g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 95mg