Broccoli, rice, cheese, and chicken casserole served hot in a dish

Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is a comforting and filling dish that brings together simple ingredients into a delicious meal. It’s perfect for families or anyone looking for an easy and satisfying dinner. This casserole is not only tasty but also nutritious, combining protein from chicken, fiber from broccoli, and carbohydrates from rice. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder, which means less cleanup for you!

how to make Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

Ingredients :

  • 2 cups water
  • 2 cups uncooked instant rice
  • 2 (10-ounce) cans chunk chicken, drained
  • 1 (16-ounce) package frozen chopped broccoli
  • 1 pound processed cheese food, cubed
  • 1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup butter, cubed
  • 1 small white onion, chopped

Directions :

  1. Gather all ingredients.
  2. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
  3. Bring water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
  4. Stir in instant rice, cover, and remove from heat. Let stand for 5 minutes.
  5. Mix prepared rice, chicken, broccoli, processed cheese, condensed mushroom soup, condensed chicken soup, milk, butter, and onion in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven until cheese is melted, about 30 to 35 minutes. Stir halfway through cooking to help cheese melt evenly.
  7. Enjoy.

how to serve Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

Serve this casserole hot right from the oven. It pairs well with a side salad or some warm bread. You can dish it out onto plates or serve it straight from the baking dish for a family-style meal.

how to store Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

tips to make Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

  • For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or pepper to the mixture.
  • Feel free to swap out the broccoli for another vegetable like spinach or green beans.
  • If you like a crunchy topping, add some breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking.

variation

You can customize this recipe by using different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella. Additionally, for a healthier option, you can use brown rice or whole grain pasta instead of white rice.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli. Just make sure to steam it lightly before adding it to the casserole.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance, cover it, and keep it in the fridge for a day before baking.

3. What if I don’t have instant rice?
If you don’t have instant rice, you can use regular rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and amount of water accordingly.