Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe

There's nothing quite like the warm, comforting aroma of Broccoli Chicken Casserole filling the kitchen. This dish brings together tender chicken, wholesome broccoli, and creamy, cheesy rice for a meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

this Recipe

I first made this casserole on a chilly Sunday afternoon, looking to create something hearty yet simple. Since then, it’s become our go-to comfort meal, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Let's dive right into why this recipe will soon become one of your favorites.

Why You'll Love This Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Get ready to fall in love with a meal that will make dinnertime stress-free. This Broccoli Chicken Casserole isn’t just tasty – it’s a lifesaver for anyone with a packed schedule.

First, it’s incredibly quick and easy to prepare. You don’t need a ton of pots and pans or complicated techniques. In just under an hour, you’ll have a complete meal ready to serve, saving you time and hassle, especially on weeknights.

Not only is it time-efficient, but it’s also a fantastic way to get the whole family eating their vegetables. Broccoli pairs beautifully with the creamy, cheesy sauce, making even the pickiest eaters come back for seconds. Trust me, this is one of those dishes that disappear fast!

Plus, it’s an excellent recipe for meal prep. You can assemble it ahead of time and simply pop it into the oven when you’re ready to eat. Leftovers, if you’re lucky enough to have any, taste just as good the next day.

Finally, this casserole is perfect for budget-conscious cooks. With simple, affordable ingredients, it’s a great way to feed a crowd without spending a fortune.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Broccoli Chicken Casserole lies in the way its simple ingredients come together to create a dish full of flavor and comfort. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need.

The chicken is the star of this recipe, providing a hearty protein base. I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces. If you're short on time, shredded rotisserie chicken works just as well and makes the dish even quicker to assemble.

Broccoli adds freshness and a bit of crunch. You can use fresh florets or frozen, depending on what you have on hand. If using fresh, be sure to cut the broccoli into small, manageable pieces so that it cooks evenly and blends well with the other ingredients.

The rice forms the comforting, starchy base of this casserole. I prefer using cooked white or brown rice for this recipe. If you’re in a rush, microwavable rice packets work wonders and keep the dish effortless.

Cream of chicken soup is a key component of the creamy sauce. It lends a rich, savory flavor that ties everything together. If you’d like a healthier option, low-sodium cream of chicken soup can be used without compromising on taste.

Cheddar cheese brings the perfect amount of gooey, melty goodness. Use a sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor, or mild if that’s what your family prefers. Don't skimp on the cheese – it truly makes this dish shine!

Finally, you’ll need some seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to enhance the dish’s overall flavor. A touch of salt may also be necessary, depending on your soup and cheese choices. Special equipment? Nothing fancy – just a large casserole dish and a mixing bowl.

How To Make This Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Creating this mouthwatering Broccoli Chicken Casserole is a straightforward process. Here’s how to make it, step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9x13-inch casserole dish. While the oven is heating up, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch your broccoli florets for just 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green. Drain them immediately and set aside. This step helps the broccoli stay vibrant and tender in the casserole.

Next, if you're using raw chicken, heat a bit of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces lightly with salt and pepper, then sauté until they're no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes. If using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, skip this step and simply shred the chicken.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed chicken, blanched broccoli, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed and coated in the creamy sauce.

Transfer the mixture to your greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. This will create a beautifully melty, golden-brown crust as the casserole bakes.

Bake the casserole uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving – the flavors will meld, and it’ll be easier to scoop out.

This recipe takes around 45 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a weeknight meal. You'll be rewarded with a warm, cheesy, and utterly satisfying dish that everyone will love.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this Broccoli Chicken Casserole stores wonderfully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can cover the casserole dish with foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. The oven method will keep the cheese on top nice and melty.

For longer storage, freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Make sure to use a freezer-safe dish and wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. To reheat from frozen, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about an hour, removing the foil in the last 15 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can customize it based on what you have available or your family’s preferences.

For a lighter version, swap out the cream of chicken soup for a homemade sauce using chicken broth and a bit of flour. You can also use low-fat cheese to cut back on calories while still enjoying a creamy, cheesy texture.

Looking for more veggies? Try adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even frozen peas. These additions will give the casserole extra color and nutrition.

If you prefer a bit of a kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the mix. It’ll give the dish a pleasant, warming heat that contrasts nicely with the cheesy sauce.

Want to make it gluten-free? Ensure that your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free, and double-check any seasonings. Use gluten-free rice and certified gluten-free soup options to keep the recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Experiment and make this Broccoli Chicken Casserole your own! The possibilities are endless, and each variation brings a new twist to this beloved comfort meal. Enjoy!

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