Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a homemade chicken broccoli and rice casserole. It’s like a cozy hug in a dish! This recipe is perfect for beginners—so if you’re just starting out in the kitchen, you’re in the right place. You only need a few simple ingredients, and before you know it, you’ll have a creamy, cheesy casserole bubbling away in the oven. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together, and you can customize it with whatever you have on hand. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a comforting staple in your home. Get ready to impress your family with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded – You can use leftover chicken or even rotisserie chicken for ease!
- 2 cups broccoli florets – Fresh or frozen works! Just make sure if you’re using frozen, they’re thawed and drained.
- 1 cup cooked rice – Any type you have on hand will do; just make sure it’s cooked!
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup – This adds that creamy goodness we all love!
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Grab your favorite brand; it adds the perfect cheesy layer on top.
- 1/2 cup milk – This helps to keep the casserole nice and creamy. You can add more if you like it saucier!
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – A little sprinkle for that extra flavor kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder – This complements the garlic beautifully!
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t forget to season to your liking!
How to Prepare Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures your casserole cooks evenly and helps achieve that delightful bubbly goodness. Trust me, it makes all the difference!
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked chicken, broccoli florets, and cooked rice. I like to use my hands or a big spoon to really mix everything together. Make sure the chicken is evenly distributed among the broccoli and rice—this way, every bite is packed with flavor. It’s okay if the mixture looks a bit rustic; it’s all part of the charm!
Step 3: Add the Creamy Base
Now, it’s time to create that creamy goodness! Add the can of cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese to the mix. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. You want a nice, smooth mixture that’s a little thick but still pourable. Don’t be shy—give it some good elbow grease!
Step 4: Transfer to Casserole Dish
Next up, grab a greased casserole dish—this will keep your delicious creation from sticking! Carefully pour the mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. It’s like tucking your casserole in for a cozy bake!
Step 5: Top with Cheese and Bake
Finish it off by sprinkling the remaining cheddar cheese on top. This is where the cheesy magic happens! Pop the casserole in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s bubbly and the cheese is beautifully melted. A quick tip: check if the edges are slightly golden and the center is hot—this means you’ve nailed it!
Tips for Success
To ensure your chicken broccoli and rice casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are a few handy tips! First, don’t hesitate to use leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken—it saves time and adds great flavor. If you want an even creamier texture, feel free to add an extra half cup of milk; this makes the casserole extra luscious!
Also, think about mixing in other veggies like carrots or peas. They not only add color but also boost the nutrition. Just make sure they’re cooked or thawed so they blend nicely into the casserole. And don’t forget to taste your mixture before baking! Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking for that perfect flavor. Trust me, these little tweaks will elevate your casserole to the next level!
Nutritional Information Section
Before diving into this delicious chicken broccoli and rice casserole, it’s good to have an idea of the nutritional content. Please keep in mind that nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just estimates!
For each serving (about 1 cup), you can expect roughly:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fiber: 2g
This casserole is not only comforting but also provides a good balance of protein and carbs, making it a filling choice for any meal. Enjoy it without worry, knowing you’re serving something hearty and satisfying!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! You can use frozen broccoli for this chicken broccoli and rice casserole. Just make sure to thaw it first and drain any excess water. This will help keep your casserole nice and creamy without becoming watery. It’s a great shortcut and still delivers all the flavor!
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup on hand, no worries! You can substitute it with a homemade white sauce—just whisk together butter, flour, milk, and some seasonings. Alternatively, other canned soups like cream of chicken or cream of celery work well too. They’ll still give you that creamy texture we all love!
How do I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, simply place the casserole in an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm it all up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it’s heated through. Easy peasy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: This casserole comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Beginner-Friendly: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, even novice cooks can nail this dish!
- Comforting & Flavorful: The creamy, cheesy goodness will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust seasonings to suit your family’s taste!
- Make-Ahead: It’s an ideal dish for meal prep; just store leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken broccoli and rice casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad for a fresh crunch. Think mixed greens topped with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette! If you’re in the mood for something heartier, some crusty garlic bread or warm dinner rolls make for a delightful accompaniment. Trust me, there’s nothing like a cozy meal that feels just right!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your delicious chicken broccoli and rice casserole fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay good for up to three days—perfect for those busy days when you need a quick meal! When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, you have a couple of easy options. For individual servings, simply pop it in the microwave for a few minutes until heated through. If you prefer reheating the whole casserole, place it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, covering it with foil to prevent drying out. Enjoy every comforting bite again!
Print
Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole: 5 Steps to Comfort!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting chicken broccoli and rice casserole that’s easy to make and perfect for beginners.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, broccoli, and rice.
- Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the cheddar cheese.
- Mix everything together until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
- Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
- For a creamier texture, add an extra half cup of milk.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or peas.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chicken broccoli and rice casserole, easy casserole recipe, beginner cooking
