Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli And Rice
A comforting baked chicken dish featuring creamy broccoli and cheesy rice, perfect for family dinners and those craving hearty, cheesy flavors with tender chicken.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake chicken breasts for 20 to 25 minutes until cooked through.
- While chicken is baking, heat broccoli cheese soup, cream of broccoli soup, milk, water, and uncooked rice in a saucepan until well blended and rice is partially cooked.
- Place baked chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the soup mixture over the chicken, spreading evenly.
- Spread a thin layer of shredded mild Cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in the oven for an additional 20 to 25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more milk or using half-and-half instead of regular milk. If you want a healthier option, swap the rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice. You can also substitute the chicken with turkey or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian dish. Experiment with adding spices like garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You could also serve it alongside crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up the cheesy sauce. For a comforting twist, consider serving it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes, which complements the cheesy flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, place the dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli And Rice contains roughly 1162 calories, with 54g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (107% of the Daily Value), calcium (97% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (73% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1773mg per serving (77% 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 frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it's essential to adjust the baking time. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You may want to bake them for an additional 10-15 minutes to ensure they cook thoroughly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and soup mixture in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake them on the day you plan to serve. This makes it an excellent option for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
What can I do if I don't have broccoli cheese soup?
If you lack broccoli cheese soup, you can create a quick substitute using a combination of cream of broccoli soup and shredded cheese. Alternatively, you can use any cheese-based soup you have on hand, adjusting the seasonings to complement the dish.
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).