Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole: A Family Favorite

This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is a heartwarming dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. It’s a delightful combination of tender chicken, steamed broccoli, fluffy rice, and gooey cheese, all baked to perfection. Let’s explore the ingredients, cooking notes, instructions, and some handy tips to make this casserole a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
• 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed until tender
• 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for topping)

Cooking Notes:

• You can use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
• Feel free to use brown rice or a wild rice blend for added texture and nutrition.
• Customize the casserole by adding diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor.
• Use a casserole dish that’s deep enough to hold all the ingredients without overflowing.

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced or shredded chicken, steamed broccoli florets, cooked white rice, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
3. In another bowl, mix the sour cream, mayonnaise, chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well blended.
4. Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken, broccoli, and rice, and stir to coat all the ingredients evenly.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
6. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
7. If you like a crispy topping, combine breadcrumbs and melted butter in a small bowl, then sprinkle it over the casserole.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
9. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips:

• Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake when you’re ready to serve.
• Leftovers are just as delicious the next day, so be sure to save some for lunch or dinner.

Enjoy this comforting Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole with your loved ones. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a family favorite!