Chicken Broccoli Cassorole
A comforting chicken and broccoli casserole with creamy mushroom and cheesy flavors, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring the frozen broccoli to a boil in salted water; drain.
- Sauté chopped onion and celery in oleo until tender.
- Mix cooked rice, sautéed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, Cheez Whiz, cooked chicken, salt, and pepper together.
- Add the cooked broccoli to the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 35 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute brown rice for white rice and use low-fat cream of mushroom soup. If you're short on time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works beautifully in this dish. Adding a handful of shredded carrots can boost the nutrition and color. For extra flavor, consider mixing in some garlic or using a different cheese like pepper jack instead of Cheez Whiz.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Broccoli Casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. It also complements nicely with dishes like Chicken-Dinner On The Grill, making for a delightful dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium heat until hot, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Broccoli Cassorole contains roughly 169 calories, with 6g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 902mg per serving (39% 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 in place of frozen. Just blanch it in boiling water for a few minutes until tender before mixing it into the casserole. This will help maintain its vibrant color and crunch.
Is there a vegetarian option for this casserole?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with a mix of your favorite beans or lentils for protein. Additionally, using vegetable broth instead of cream of mushroom soup can create a rich, flavorful base without meat.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
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).