Rice, Broccoli And Chicken Casserole
Creamy chicken, broccoli, and rice casserole with a cheesy flavor, topped with cracker crumbs, perfect for family dinners or comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the chopped onions and celery in a skillet.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, Cheez Whiz, sliced water chestnuts, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, cooked broccoli, browned onions, and celery.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle Ritz cracker crumbs over the top of the casserole.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) until hot and bubbly, about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing garlic with the onions and celery. You can substitute the Cheez Whiz with a homemade cheese sauce or a different cheese blend to suit your taste. If you prefer a lighter version, use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. This recipe can also be adapted by adding cooked chicken or other vegetables like bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside roasted vegetables. You can also incorporate side dishes like mashed potatoes or a simple coleslaw to enhance the meal experience.
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 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, ensuring they're hot all the way through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice, Broccoli And Chicken Casserole contains roughly 269 calories, with 10g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 679mg per serving (30% 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 a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer not to use cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with a homemade cream sauce or another cream soup like cream of celery. Alternatively, a mix of sour cream and chicken broth can provide a similar creamy texture.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. To freeze, cool it completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through.
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).