Broccoli, Rice, Cheese And Chicken Casserole
Creamy broccoli, chicken, and rice casserole combines tender vegetables, melted cheese, and savory soup for a comforting, family-friendly dish with rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
- Mix in the 2 cups of instant rice, cover, and remove from heat. Let stand for 5 minutes.
- In a large skillet, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and celery to the skillet.
- Cook until the onion begins to be transparent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add frozen broccoli to the skillet and cook for a few minutes until broccoli is no longer frozen.
- Stir in the two cans of condensed cream of chicken soup and 1 cup of milk.
- Heat the mixture until it begins to simmer.
- Add the cubed processed cheese to the hot mixture and stir until melted and smooth.
- In a 9x13 inch baking dish, combine the cooked rice, hot broccoli mixture, and cheese.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is lightly brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider seasoning the broccoli mixture with garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce. You can substitute the processed cheese with shredded cheddar or a mix of cheeses for a more robust flavor. If you want a lighter version, use low-fat cream of chicken soup and milk. You could also add cooked chicken or turkey for extra protein.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Johnny Appleseed Bars for dessert, creating a comforting and hearty dinner experience. You can also offer additional toppings like crushed crackers or fried onions for added texture and flavor.
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 and heat at 350°F until warm. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli, Rice, Cheese And Chicken Casserole contains roughly 1561 calories, with 19g protein, 138g carbohydrates, and 105g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (40% of the Daily Value), protein (37% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1857mg per serving (81% 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 it in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch it briefly before adding it to the skillet. This ensures the broccoli is tender and cooks evenly in the casserole. Fresh broccoli will add a vibrant color and texture to the dish.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole is a complete meal on its own but pairs well with a side of warm bread, such as Honey Brown Bread, or a light soup. For a refreshing contrast, serve with a simple cucumber salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the casserole.
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).