Chicken Broccoli-Cheese Casserole
A comforting chicken and broccoli casserole infused with cheesy flavors and vibrant peppers. This quick one-pan dish combines tender rice, fresh vegetables, and savory soup for a hearty, family-friendly meal perfect for weeknights and veggie lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine both soups, water, and pepper in a bowl.
- Add this mixture to cooked chicken in a frying pan and bring to a boil.
- Stir in the white rice, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add broccoli and sliced peppers, then simmer uncovered for another 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or onion powder to the soup mixture. You can substitute the white rice with brown rice for a healthier option, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Additionally, feel free to use frozen broccoli if fresh isn't available; just add it earlier to ensure it cooks through. This casserole is a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken from recipes like Chicken A La Maria Elena.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Broccoli-Cheese Casserole can be served as a standalone meal or alongside a simple green salad for a balanced dinner. For a heartier option, serve with crusty bread or garlic bread. It also pairs beautifully with other chicken recipes, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation.
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. Heat on medium power until warmed through, stirring occasionally, or reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot, about 15-20 minutes. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Broccoli-Cheese Casserole contains roughly 580 calories, with 12g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (322% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (57% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 639mg per serving (28% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking and refrigerate it covered for up to 24 hours. Just add a little extra cooking time if baking straight from the fridge. This makes it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
What can I use instead of broccoli cheese soup?
If you don't have broccoli cheese soup, you can blend cream of broccoli soup with a bit of shredded cheese to mimic the flavor. Alternatively, make a homemade cheese sauce using cheddar cheese, milk, and a thickener like flour for a fresh twist.
Is there a vegetarian option for this casserole?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken. Add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for more texture and flavor. This makes for a hearty vegetarian meal that everyone will enjoy.
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).