If you have been searching for a comforting, cozy meal that brings together creamy, cheesy goodness with hearty chicken, vibrant broccoli, and fluffy rice, look no further than this Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe. This dish is a nostalgic crowd-pleaser that wraps all those classic flavors into one irresistible casserole. Perfect for weeknight family dinners or gathering with friends, it’s a one-dish wonder that delivers simplicity without skimping on flavor or warmth.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this casserole is like inviting your kitchen staples to a delicious party. Each item plays a vital role, from the tender chicken that adds substance to the creamy cheeses and brothy soups that create the perfect texture. Here’s what will make your Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe sing.
- 2 cups water: For cooking the instant rice just right, ensuring it’s fluffy without being mushy.
- 2 cups uncooked instant rice: The base of the casserole, providing a soft, comforting texture that absorbs all the creamy flavors.
- 2 (10 ounce) cans chunk chicken, drained: Pre-cooked, tender chicken chunks that make this meal hearty and satisfying.
- 1 (16 ounce) package frozen chopped broccoli: Adds a fresh burst of green and a slight crunch, plus valuable nutrients.
- 1 pound processed cheese food, cubed (such as Velveeta): Melts smoothly for that rich, velvety cheese sauce everyone loves.
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup: Brings an earthy depth and creaminess that enhances the casserole’s texture.
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup: Adds savory richness, reinforcing the chicken flavor throughout the dish.
- 1 cup milk: Makes the casserole creamy and moist without being heavy.
- ¼ cup butter, cubed: For that buttery richness that rounds out every bite deliciously.
- 1 small white onion, chopped: Provides subtle sweetness and a touch of bite for a flavor boost.
How to Make Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring 2 cups of water to a boil on the stove, then stir in the 2 cups of instant rice. Cover the saucepan, remove it from the heat, and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step ensures your rice is perfectly fluffy and ready to soak up all the flavors in the casserole.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large 9×13 inch baking dish, mix together your cooked rice, drained chunk chicken, frozen chopped broccoli, cubed processed cheese, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, milk, butter cubes, and chopped onion. Stir everything thoroughly to make sure every bite will be bursting with cheesy, creamy, and savory goodness. This combination is the heart of your Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes. Baking helps the cheese melt into a beautiful, bubbly layer, melding all the ingredients into a harmonious dish. Halfway through, give it a gentle stir to ensure the cheese melts evenly and the flavors mingle perfectly.
How to Serve Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives can add a pop of fresh color and a mild herbal note that pairs wonderfully with this casserole’s rich flavors. For a bit of crunch, toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers sprinkled on top after baking elevate the texture and make every bite interesting.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, light and refreshing green salads, roasted vegetables, or a crisp cucumber and tomato salad work beautifully. Simple steamed carrots or a tangy coleslaw can offer a nice contrast to the creamy, cheesy textures.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this casserole in individual ramekins for a personal touch that feels special. You can also pack it into tortilla wraps for a casserole-stuffed burrito, or layer it in a pot pie crust to combine familiar comforts with a visually impressive presentation. The Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe is versatile enough to reimagine in many tasty ways.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before storing to keep the texture just right.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping. Portion leftovers or the whole dish into a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave until heated through, stirring once or twice. For the whole dish, cover with foil and bake in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly, usually about 20-25 minutes. A splash of milk can help restore creaminess if needed.
FAQs
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli works wonderfully. Just blanch it briefly to keep it tender and vibrant before adding it to the casserole.
Is it necessary to use processed cheese like Velveeta?
While processed cheese melts smoothly and gives a creamy texture, you can substitute with sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses for a more intense flavor, though the texture may vary slightly.
Can this casserole be made with brown rice?
You can substitute with cooked brown rice; however, cooking it in advance is important since it needs longer cooking time than instant rice.
What can I use if I don’t have cream of mushroom or chicken soup?
Simple homemade béchamel sauce or a mix of cream and broth with seasonings can replace the canned soups to keep the casserole creamy.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly after baking?
It’s best to freeze it before baking. Freezing after baking can sometimes change the texture, but if frozen, thaw in the fridge and reheat gently to maintain quality.
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe is a heartfelt classic that never fails to satisfy. Its balance of creamy cheese, wholesome chicken, and tender broccoli makes it a go-to recipe for comfort and ease. Whether you’re feeding your family or preparing a dish to share, this casserole is bound to become one of your favorite dishes to make again and again.
Print
Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and hearty Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole featuring tender chicken, creamy cheese, and nutritious broccoli blended with fluffy instant rice and savory soups, baked to perfection for a family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups uncooked instant rice
Protein and Vegetables
- 2 (10 ounce) cans chunk chicken, drained
- 1 (16 ounce) package frozen chopped broccoli
- 1 small white onion, chopped
Dairy and Soup
- 1 pound processed cheese food, cubed (such as Velveeta)
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- ¼ cup butter, cubed
Instructions
- Prepare Rice: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Stir in 2 cups of uncooked instant rice, cover the pan, and remove it from heat. Let it stand covered for 5 minutes to allow the rice to absorb the water and become fluffy.
- Mix Ingredients: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine the cooked rice, drained chunk chicken, frozen chopped broccoli, cubed processed cheese, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, milk, cubed butter, and chopped white onion. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. During baking, stir the casserole halfway through to promote even melting of the cheese and consistency. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly on top.
Notes
- For a lower sodium dish, consider using reduced-sodium soups and processed cheese.
- You can substitute fresh broccoli for frozen if preferred. Steam it slightly before adding.
- Adding a topping of breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking can add a crunchy texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This casserole is freezer-friendly; freeze before baking and bake from frozen with additional cooking time.
