Quick 'N Easy Chicken Casserole
A quick and cheesy chicken casserole packed with broccoli, rice, and savory mushroom soup, perfect for busy weeknights and satisfying for the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the chopped broccoli on High in the microwave for 2 minutes.
- In a bowl, stir in the cooked rice, diced chicken, condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, grated Cheddar cheese, and chopped onion.
- Microwave the mixture for 6 minutes, then stir well.
- Add the remaining cheese on top and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding garlic powder or herbs like thyme and rosemary to the chicken mixture. If you don't have Minute rice, regular rice can be used, but adjust cooking times accordingly. For a creamier texture, you might substitute half of the milk with sour cream. This dish is versatile; feel free to add other vegetables like peas or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. Serve it alongside your favorite vegetable side dish for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it with Oven Fried Herbed Chicken for a satisfying dinner that the whole family will enjoy.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. For a crispier texture, you can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick 'N Easy Chicken Casserole contains roughly 969 calories, with 32g protein, 121g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (64% of the Daily Value), calcium (63% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2479mg per serving (108% 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 thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the mixture to avoid making the casserole too watery.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly. When you’re ready to bake, it may require a few extra minutes in the microwave to heat through.
What can I substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer a different flavor or want to avoid processed ingredients, you can make a homemade cream sauce or use a can of cream of chicken soup instead. Both will work well with the other ingredients.
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).