Broccoli, Chicken And Rice Casserole
A comforting casserole combining tender chicken, broccoli, and rice in creamy soups, topped with melted Cheddar cheese. This dish offers a savory, cheesy flavor profile perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, providing a hearty and satisfying meal with simple ingredients and straightforward preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the broccoli as directed on the package, then drain.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked broccoli, diced chicken, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chopped onion, and chopped celery.
- Mix in half of the Cheddar cheese soup with the other ingredients.
- Pour the mixture into a 1 to 2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with the remaining Cheddar cheese soup.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes until bubbly and heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to the mixture before baking. You can substitute fresh broccoli for frozen if you prefer; just blanch it briefly before mixing. If you're looking to lower sodium, opt for low-sodium soups. This casserole is also excellent with additional spices like garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or some crusty bread for a heartier dining experience. For a comforting side, consider serving with Sour Cream And Cheese Potatoes, which complement the flavors well. You can also top the casserole with additional cheese or breadcrumbs for a crunchy texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, heating in 1-minute intervals until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli, Chicken And Rice Casserole contains roughly 469 calories, with 10g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1383mg per serving (60% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble all the ingredients, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted to include cooked turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that any meat you use is already cooked and diced to maintain the dish's integrity.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make this casserole healthier, you can use brown rice instead of white for added fiber. Additionally, consider using low-fat soups and adding more vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to increase the nutritional content without sacrificing flavor.
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).