Broccoli-Rice-Chicken Casserole
A comforting casserole combining tender chicken, broccoli, rice, and cheddar cheese, baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners and versatile for various tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion in margarine.
- Add garlic.
- Dissolve bouillon in boiling water.
- Mix all ingredients together.
- Pour mixture into a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish.
- Bake, covered, for 45 to 60 minutes at 350°F.
- Stir mixture occasionally during baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a can of cream of mushroom soup to the mixture. You can substitute brown rice for white rice for added nutrition, but you may need to adjust the cooking time. If you want extra flavor, try adding a teaspoon of onion powder or some diced bell peppers. This dish is versatile, allowing you to use leftover chicken or even make it vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh Salad With A Tang for a balanced meal. For a heartier side, serve with crusty bread or a simple cucumber salad dressed with sour cream. You can also top it with extra shredded cheese before baking for a cheesy crust. It’s a perfect dish for family gatherings or potlucks, offering comfort in every bite.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli-Rice-Chicken Casserole contains roughly 608 calories, with 12g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 738mg per serving (32% 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?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time. You will need to adjust the amount of boiling water and possibly the baking time as well since brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice.
How can I make this casserole vegetarian?
To make this casserole vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and replace the chicken bouillon with vegetable bouillon. You can also add more vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to enhance the flavor and texture.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble all the ingredients in the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through.
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).