Description
Cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole delivers comfort and nostalgia in one delightful dish. Creamy textures and savory flavors combine perfectly, promising a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein and Vegetables:
- 2 cups cooked chicken (diced)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Grains and Dairy:
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 ounces / 298 grams) cream of chicken soup
Seasonings and Toppings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup crispy fried onions (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F, preparing a comfortable cooking environment for a hearty meal.
- Blend tender, chopped chicken pieces with vibrant broccoli florets and fluffy, pre-cooked rice in a spacious mixing vessel.
- Craft a luxurious sauce by whisking cream of chicken soup with creamy milk, tangy sour cream, and a harmonious blend of garlic and onion powders, then season with salt and pepper.
- Generously fold the silky sauce into the chicken-broccoli-rice mixture, incorporating a substantial portion of shredded cheese to enhance richness and flavor.
- Gently transfer the creamy concoction into a well-greased 9×13 inch baking dish, ensuring an even distribution.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese across the surface, creating an enticing golden-brown topping.
- Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese melts into a bubbling, appetizing layer.
- Optional: Scatter crispy fried onions over the top and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to achieve a delightful crunch.
- Allow the casserole to rest and settle for 5-10 minutes, helping the flavors meld and making serving easier.
Notes
- Cooking rice and chicken in advance saves time and makes assembly quick and effortless.
- Experiment with different cheese combinations like cheddar, monterey jack, or gruyere for unique flavor profiles.
- Replace rice with cauliflower rice to create a keto-friendly version that’s equally delicious and nutritious.
- Ensure broccoli and chicken are well-drained to maintain the casserole’s creamy consistency and avoid excess liquid.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 468
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 764 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 41 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 88 mg