Broccoli, Rice And Chicken Casserole
A comforting casserole blending tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and fluffy rice, all coated in creamy cheese and soup. Perfect for family dinners, it offers savory flavors with a cheesy twist, baked to perfection. An easy, hearty dish that satisfies and delights everyone around the table.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the rice until tender.
- Saute chopped onion in oleo until translucent.
- Add cooked rice and chopped broccoli to the onion and sauté briefly.
- Boil or bake the chicken breasts until fully cooked, then debone and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Add the cooked chicken to the rice and broccoli mixture.
- Stir in the can of cream of chicken soup and Cheez Whiz until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a buttered casserole dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider using brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber. You can also substitute the Cheez Whiz with shredded cheese like cheddar for a more natural flavor. If you prefer fresh broccoli, blanch it before adding. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked to avoid any food safety issues. This dish can also be made ahead and frozen for later use.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside garlic bread or a side of roasted potatoes. It’s also delicious with a dollop of sour cream or hot sauce for those who enjoy a little extra flavor. For more comforting dinners, browse other American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven until heated through. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out. You can also freeze the casserole before baking, then bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli, Rice And Chicken Casserole contains roughly 296 calories, with 10g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1272mg per serving (55% 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 leftover chicken in this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great in this casserole. Just shred or chop the chicken and add it to the mixture. This will save time and add extra flavor to the dish, making it even easier to prepare on busy nights.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld, and it’s perfect for meal prep. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if using fresh vegetables to ensure everything is cooked properly. This versatility makes it a great option for using up leftover veggies.
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).