Broccoli Chicken Rice
A comforting casserole combining tender broccoli, savory chicken, melted Velveeta, and rice, topped with almonds for a crunchy finish—perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, melt 1/2 cup margarine.
- Add frozen broccoli and chopped onion; sauté in margarine until tender.
- Stir in cream of mushroom soup, cubed Velveeta cheese, and milk. Blend well and remove from heat.
- Cook rice according to package instructions.
- Combine the cooked rice with the broccoli mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish.
- Top with slivered almonds.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider using olive oil instead of margarine and swapping Velveeta for a sharper cheddar. You can also add garlic or bell peppers for extra flavor. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked rice. For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add more vegetables. Pair with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or fish. You can also top it with crispy fried onions for additional texture. It makes a great potluck dish or a comforting weeknight dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Chicken Rice contains roughly 828 calories, with 10g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (67% of the Daily Value), iron (21% of the Daily Value), and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 990mg per serving (43% 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 fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli. Just steam or blanch it briefly before sautéing to ensure it cooks properly in the dish. Fresh broccoli may give a crisper texture compared to frozen.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken soup or make a homemade version using sautéed mushrooms, heavy cream, and broth. This will maintain the creamy texture while adding a unique flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be made ahead of time. Prepare it on the weekend and portion it into containers. It's perfect for reheating during busy weekdays, making it a great choice for meal prep.
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).