Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and flavorful Cheez Whiz, all baked to perfection. The dish offers comforting, cheesy goodness with a savory mix of vegetables and rice, ideal for family dinners or potlucks that satisfy both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the chicken and debone it.
- Cook the rice in chicken broth.
- Saute the chopped onion and bell pepper in butter.
- In a large casserole dish, layer the cooked rice, chicken, sauteed onion and bell pepper, frozen broccoli, Cheez Whiz, and soup.
- Mix all ingredients well and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 20 minutes.
- The casserole can be frozen for later use.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider substituting the Cheez Whiz with cream cheese or a blend of shredded cheeses. If you prefer more vegetables, add in some sliced mushrooms or carrots. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken for quicker prep. Adjust the amount of butter based on your preference; olive oil can be a lighter alternative.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed green beans for a balanced meal. You can serve it with crusty bread to soak up the cheesy goodness. For a comforting twist, consider pairing with mashed potatoes or a side of roasted vegetables, making it a hearty choice for family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole contains roughly 633 calories, with 10g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (100% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 692mg per serving (30% 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 in this recipe?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. Pre-cook the brown rice in chicken broth according to package instructions before layering it in the casserole to ensure everything cooks evenly.
What can I substitute for the frozen broccoli?
If you don't have frozen broccoli, fresh broccoli can be used instead. Just blanch it in boiling water for a few minutes before adding it to the casserole. Other vegetables like cauliflower or green beans would also work well in this dish.
How can I make this dish lighter?
To lighten this casserole, you can reduce the amount of butter used or substitute it with a light olive oil. Additionally, using low-fat cheese or Greek yogurt instead of Cheez Whiz can reduce the calorie count while still providing a creamy texture.
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).