Buffet Supper
A creamy, cheesy, crowd‑pleasing casserole that blends tender broccoli, savory chicken, and fluffy rice for a comforting family dinner. Perfect for potlucks and quick weeknight meals alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and broccoli in butter until tender.
- Stir in the Cheez Whiz Light, cream of chicken and broccoli soup, and evaporated milk until the mixture is smooth.
- Add the chopped chicken to the sauce and mix well.
- Place the cooked white rice into a greased 8‑inch square baking dish.
- Pour the cheese mixture evenly over the rice.
- Bake uncovered at 325°F (165°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, or until heated through and bubbling.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more evaporated milk or even sour cream. You can substitute the Cheez Whiz Light with a homemade cheese sauce if preferred. If you have leftover cooked vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, feel free to toss them in for added nutrition. This dish also works well with different proteins like shredded rotisserie chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting twist, consider serving alongside a warm bowl of Spicy Roasted Tomato Soup. This dish is great for gatherings, as it can be easily doubled for larger groups.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in. Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed, covering with foil to prevent drying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Buffet Supper contains roughly 1186 calories, with 27g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 83g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (53% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), and iron (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1726mg per serving (75% 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 definitely use fresh broccoli! Just blanch it in boiling water for a couple of minutes until slightly tender before adding it to the skillet. This will help maintain its vibrant color and crispness in the final dish.
What can I substitute for the cream of chicken and broccoli soup?
You can make a homemade version using a simple roux of butter, flour, and chicken broth, then mix in some cooked broccoli. Alternatively, any cream-based soup, like cream of mushroom, can work, though it will change the flavor slightly.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, this dish can be frozen! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake until heated 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).