Mirabella'S Chicken, Broccoli And Rice Casserole
A creamy, cheesy chicken and broccoli casserole that blends comforting flavors with a crunchy topping, perfect for a quick family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cream of mushroom soup, oleo or margarine, and Cheez Whiz together until smooth.
- Add the cooked broccoli, cooked chicken, and cooked instant rice to the mixture and stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish, spreading evenly.
- Top with Cheese Nips crumbs.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using cooked chicken seasoned with herbs or spices. If you don't have Cheez Whiz, a combination of shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese can work well. You can substitute fresh broccoli with frozen, just ensure it's thawed and drained. For a crunchy topping, consider using crushed crackers or breadcrumbs instead of Cheese Nips.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Mary Lou'S Hash for a comforting dinner. For a heartier option, consider serving with crusty bread or garlic knots. This dish also makes great leftovers for lunch the next day.
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 (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mirabella'S Chicken, Broccoli And Rice Casserole contains roughly 482 calories, with 8g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 594mg per serving (26% 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 brown rice instead of instant rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook, so pre-cook it according to package instructions before mixing it into the casserole to ensure everything is evenly cooked.
What can I do if I don't have cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can make a homemade version using a roux of butter and flour, then adding milk and sautéed mushrooms. Alternatively, you can use cream of chicken soup or any other creamy soup you have on hand to maintain the dish's creaminess.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make this casserole healthier, consider using whole grain rice and reduce the amount of Cheez Whiz. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to increase the nutritional value. Using lean chicken breast will also help cut down on the fat content.
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).