Home Baked Cheesy Chicken And Broccoli
A comforting baked chicken and broccoli casserole with cheesy rice topping, perfect for family dinners and those craving a hearty, cheesy, vegetable-filled dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Prepare rice according to package directions.
- Fold cheese into hot rice and stir to melt the cheese.
- Add milk and blend well.
- Fold in cooked and cubed chicken and steamed broccoli florets.
- Pour the mixture into a 2-quart ovenproof casserole dish.
- Top with toasted bread crumbs.
- Bake for 15 minutes and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese along with the milk. You can also substitute the pasteurized cheese with shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor. If you have leftover vegetables, feel free to toss them in for added nutrition. This dish can be customized with various seasonings depending on your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy chicken and broccoli dish can be served as a main course, and pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread. For a heartier meal, consider serving with crusty bread or over a bed of quinoa. It also makes a great lunch option the next day, offering a satisfying and balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Home Baked Cheesy Chicken And Broccoli contains roughly 901 calories, with 30g protein, 169g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (60% of the Daily Value), iron (48% of the Daily Value), and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2168mg per serving (94% 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 broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just make sure to steam it before adding to the mixture to ensure it cooks evenly in the casserole. This can save time and is a convenient option if fresh broccoli isn't available.
What can I substitute for the cubed chicken?
You can use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick alternative, or try canned chicken if you're short on time. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with chickpeas or a plant-based protein that suits your taste.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the mixture. You could also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking. For a fusion twist, consider using buffalo sauce, inspired by Buffalo Style Chicken Pizza.
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).