Cheesy Broccoli Rice Chicken Casserole: A Comforting Family Favorite!

When it comes to comforting and delicious meals that the whole family will love, it’s hard to beat a cheesy broccoli rice chicken casserole. This classic dish is packed with flavor and is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly evening. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want to enjoy leftovers throughout the week, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.

A Perfect Combination of Flavors

The key to a delicious cheesy broccoli rice chicken casserole is the combination of flavors. The creamy cheese sauce pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and hearty broccoli, while the rice adds a satisfying texture. This dish is a complete meal in itself, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights when you don’t have time to cook multiple dishes. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some veggies into your family’s diet!

Simple and Easy to Make

One of the best things about this casserole is how simple and easy it is to make. With just a few basic ingredients, you can have a delicious and comforting meal on the table in no time. Start by cooking your rice according to the package instructions. While the rice is cooking, sauté some chicken and broccoli in a skillet until they’re tender. Then, prepare a creamy cheese sauce by melting butter in a saucepan and whisking in flour, milk, and shredded cheese. Combine the cooked rice, chicken, broccoli, and cheese sauce in a baking dish and bake until everything is hot and bubbly.

Variations and Substitutions

While the classic cheesy broccoli rice chicken casserole is delicious on its own, there are plenty of variations and substitutions you can try to customize the dish to your liking. For example, you could add some cooked bacon for extra flavor or swap out the chicken for cooked ground beef or turkey. If you’re vegetarian, you can omit the meat altogether and add some extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different ingredients to make this casserole your own.

Serving Suggestions

When serving this comforting family casserole, there are plenty of options to consider. You can enjoy it as a standalone meal, or you can pair it with some simple sides to complete the menu. A fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables would complement the casserole nicely. You could also serve it with some crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. And of course, don’t forget about dessert! A sweet treat like a berry chia pudding or a slice of your favorite pie would be the perfect way to end the meal on a sweet note.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want a comforting meal to enjoy throughout the week, a cheesy broccoli rice chicken casserole is always a great choice. With its delicious combination of flavors, simple preparation, and endless customization options, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

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Servings

⏱️

Prep time

minutes

🔥

Cooking time

minutes

📊

Calories

380

kcal

Cook Mode

Keep the screen of your device on

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups cooked chicken, diced
2 cups broccoli florets
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella)
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook rice according to package instructions.
In a skillet, sauté chicken and broccoli until tender.
In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until thickened.
Stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
In a baking dish, combine cooked rice, chicken, broccoli, and cheese sauce.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Serve hot and enjoy!