A Cheesy Delight You Can’t Resist
Ever had a dish that wraps you in a warm, cozy hug? Picture this: creamy chicken, crisp broccoli, and fluffy rice all combined into one tempting casserole. This Creamy Chicken Casserole with Broccoli and Rice is everything your taste buds could ever dream of — smooth, cheesy, and satisfying. Plus, it’s a quick one-pan wonder that makes cleanup a breeze!
Why Make This Recipe
Why settle for boring dinners when you can whip up this delight? Here are a few reasons:
- Easy Cleanup: Who doesn’t love a one-pan meal? Less mess means more time enjoying your dish and less time with a sponge.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will chow down on this creamy casserole. If they complain, just tell them it’s “super secret healthy food!” 😄
- Affordable Ingredients: You won’t need to break the bank. Most of the ingredients are staples you probably have hanging out in your kitchen already!
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Directions
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, broccoli, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish, and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through and the cheese is bubbly.
- Serve warm.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Casserole with Broccoli and Rice (Overview)
Making this casserole is as easy as pie! First, you mix everything together in a bowl, which feels oddly satisfying. Then, scoop it into a dish, cover it with cheese (because, let’s be real, cheese is life), and bake until heavenly.
Pro tip: Don’t skip the cheese! It gets melty and golden, elevating this casserole to ultimate comfort food status.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Casserole with Broccoli and Rice
Serve this glorious casserole straight from the oven! The colors will pop with bright green broccoli and bubbly cheese, making your dinner table look inviting. Pair it with a simple green salad for crunch and fresh flavors. The aroma? Trust me, it’ll make everyone come running!
How to Store Creamy Chicken Casserole with Broccoli and Rice
Leftovers, anyone? This dish keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just store it in an airtight container. If you want to make-ahead, feel free to prep it a day or two before, and then pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat!
For freezing, it should last about 2-3 months. Just make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Creamy Chicken Casserole with Broccoli and Rice
Here are some insider tricks to elevate your casserole game:
- Use rotisserie chicken for even faster prep — just shred and toss!
- Try adding different veggies like carrots or bell peppers for extra color and taste.
- If you crave a crunchy topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking. Yum!
Variations
Want to switch things up? Here are some easy ideas:
- Vegan Twist: Replace chicken with chickpeas and use a vegan cream of mushroom soup. Swap dairy cheese for a plant-based version!
- Spicy Kick: Add in diced jalapeños or some hot sauce to give your casserole a fiery twist!
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just steam it beforehand and then add it to the mix.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Prep everything as directed, but don’t bake. Cover it and store in the fridge. Bake it when you’re ready to eat!
Can I substitute cream of mushroom soup?
Yes, you can use cream of chicken or a homemade creamy base if you’re feeling adventurous!
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Creamy Chicken Casserole with Broccoli and Rice
Ingredients
Casserole Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Use rotisserie chicken for faster prep.
- 1 cup broccoli florets Fresh or frozen, if using frozen, steam before adding.
- 1 cup cooked rice Any type of cooked rice works.
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup Can substitute with cream of chicken or a homemade creamy base.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Key ingredient for a cheesy topping.
- 1/2 cup milk Can use dairy or non-dairy milk.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- to taste salt and pepper Adjust seasoning as preferred.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, broccoli, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish, and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through and the cheese is bubbly.
- Serve warm.
Notes
Printable Recipe Card
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