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This Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, packed with tender chicken, creamy cheese, and hearty vegetables. It’s a one-dish wonder that’s easy to throw together and perfect for a busy weeknight meal that the whole family will enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole combines all the classic ingredients – chicken, rice, broccoli, and cheese – into a warm, creamy, and cheesy delight. It’s kid-friendly, filling, and loaded with flavor, making it an excellent choice for a family dinner or meal prep.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish provides a good balance of protein from the chicken, vitamins from the broccoli, and comforting carbs from the rice. Customize it with low-sodium soups or reduced-fat cheese for a lighter version.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb shredded chicken (about 2-3 cups cooked)
- 2 cups instant rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can cream of onion soup
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 bag frozen broccoli, steamed and drained
- Panko bread crumbs (optional, for topping)
Cooking Tips
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For even quicker prep, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
- Add Extra Veggies: You can add frozen peas, carrots, or diced bell peppers for more color and flavor.
- Creamy Variations: Substitute half the Velveeta with shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack for a richer flavor.
How To Make Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole:
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish and set aside.
- Prepare Broccoli: Steam the frozen broccoli according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- Cook Rice: In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Add the instant rice, cover, and remove from heat. Let sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- Add Cheese and Butter: Stir the butter and cubed Velveeta cheese into the warm rice until melted and creamy.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked broccoli, and cheesy rice mixture.
- Mix in Soups and Cream: Add the cream of onion soup, cream of chicken soup, milk, and heavy whipping cream to the bowl. Stir everything together until fully combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish. If desired, sprinkle panko bread crumbs over the top for added crunch.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It’s also a great dish to bring to potlucks or gatherings!
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F, covered, until warmed through, or in the microwave.
Conclusion
This Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole is creamy, comforting, and packed with family-favorite flavors. It’s an easy, no-fuss meal that’s guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the table. Perfect for those nights when you want a hearty, homemade dinner without the fuss!
Enjoy, and don’t forget to share with friends!
