Broccoli, Cheese, Rice And Chicken Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender chicken, broccoli, and cheesy rice, baked to perfection. Ideal for family dinners and comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a saucepan, heat water, shredded Cheddar cheese, margarine, milk, and cream of chicken soup until warm and well combined.
- Add chopped broccoli, cooked or canned chicken, cooked rice, and diced onion to the mixture.
- Mix everything thoroughly and transfer to a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more milk or cheese. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with any cheese you prefer, such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a kick. If you have leftover chicken from Georgine'S Chicken, this is a great recipe to use it in. Additionally, fresh broccoli can be used instead of frozen; just blanch it first.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for added texture. For a comforting meal, serve it alongside Easy Hearty Corn Chowder or a light soup. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives to enhance the presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. If reheating the entire casserole, cover it with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli, Cheese, Rice And Chicken Casserole contains roughly 880 calories, with 20g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value), calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1502mg per serving (65% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. Be sure to cook the brown rice separately before adding it to the casserole to ensure everything is evenly cooked.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you want a healthier option, you can make a homemade cream sauce or use a can of cream of mushroom soup. Alternatively, you could use a vegan cream soup to make this dish dairy-free.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This makes for an easy meal prep option!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).