Chicken Broccoli-Rice Casserole
A comforting chicken and broccoli casserole with rice and cheese, perfect for family dinners, combining creamy, cheesy flavors with nutritious vegetables in a hearty bake.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the chicken and rice.
- Combine cooked chicken, cooked rice, frozen broccoli, and cheese in a bowl.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Bake at 375°F until completely heated, about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier casserole, consider adding a can of cream of chicken soup or a mixture of sour cream and cheese to the bowl. If you're short on time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works great as a substitute for cooked chicken. You can also use fresh broccoli instead of frozen if you prefer, just steam it lightly before mixing.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a balanced meal. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables for added nutrition. A side of fruit can add a nice contrast and lighten the meal, making it perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to keep moisture in, for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Broccoli-Rice Casserole contains roughly 165 calories, with 10g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (178% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 brown rice instead of white rice in this casserole?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. Be sure to fully cook the brown rice before mixing it into the casserole to ensure everything heats evenly.
What cheese works best for this casserole?
Cheddar is a popular choice for its melting qualities and flavor, but you can also experiment with Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses for a different taste. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well to achieve that creamy texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge, and enjoy a quick meal without much fuss.
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).