Chicken, Broccoli And Rice Casserole
A comforting chicken, broccoli, and rice casserole featuring creamy mushroom soup and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners or potlucks with a savory, cheesy flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring the chopped broccoli and 2 cups of water to a boil.
- Cook, covered, for 6 minutes.
- Add cheese and margarine to the broccoli and let melt.
- Cut the cooked chicken into small pieces.
- Pour the broccoli mixture into a casserole dish.
- Add the remaining ingredients: cooked chicken, cream of mushroom soup, minute rice, chopped onion, chopped celery, and Cheez Whiz or melted Velveeta.
- Bake at 325°F for 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Divide in half for a smaller casserole if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to the mixture before baking. If you're short on time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can be used in place of freshly cooked chicken. You can also substitute the Cheez Whiz with a homemade cheese sauce for a healthier option. This dish can easily be customized with other veggies like bell peppers or carrots.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole makes for a hearty main dish on its own, but it pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a complete family dinner, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or a light soup like Penny'S Potato Soup to create a comforting and filling experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken, Broccoli And Rice Casserole contains roughly 600 calories, with 12g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value) and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1044mg per serving (45% 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, fresh broccoli can be used, but you'll need to steam it for a few minutes until tender before adding it to the casserole. This ensures the broccoli cooks evenly with the other ingredients.
Is there a gluten-free alternative for cream of mushroom soup?
Absolutely! You can make your own gluten-free cream of mushroom soup using gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickener, or you can find store-bought gluten-free versions. Just check the labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To lighten up the casserole, use low-fat versions of the cream of mushroom soup and cheese, or substitute with Greek yogurt for added protein. You can also increase the vegetable content by adding more broccoli or incorporating other nutritious veggies, creating a heartier, healthier meal.
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).