Introduction
If you’re looking for a dish that brings comfort, flavor, and simplicity to your dinner table, look no further than this Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Rice Casserole. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness, hearty chicken, and nutritious broccoli. This casserole is a family-friendly meal that comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in those veggies and satisfy everyone with its creamy texture and delicious flavors. Ready to make your next meal a hit? Let’s dive into this easy recipe!
Detailed Ingredients
- 🧈 ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 🧅 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 🧄 6 medium garlic cloves, crushed
- 🍞 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 🍗 2 cups chicken broth
- 🥛 1 cup whole milk
- 🧀 4 ounces cream cheese
- 🧂 1 teaspoon salt
- 🌶 ¾ teaspoon sweet paprika
- 🌿 ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 🥦 3 cups broccoli florets
- 🍚 3 cups cooked rice
- 🍗 3 cups cooked chopped chicken
- 🧀 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 🌿 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley, for garnish
Direction
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened but not browned, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally.
- Reduce heat to low, add the crushed garlic, and cook for 30 seconds while stirring constantly.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Keep whisking until it thickens.
- Add the cream cheese to the sauce and whisk until smooth. Then, stir in the salt, sweet paprika, and black pepper. Set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick spray.
- For the broccoli, bring a medium saucepan filled with water to a boil. Add salt and then the broccoli florets. Cook for 3 minutes, then drain.
- In a large bowl, combine the rice, chopped chicken, cooked broccoli, creamy sauce, and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Cover the casserole with foil and bake for about 20 minutes, until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted.
- Remove the foil and broil for a couple of minutes to brown the cheese on top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, and your cheesy chicken and broccoli rice casserole is ready to serve!
My Story
I’m all about dishes that bring everyone together, and this Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Rice Casserole has been a crowd-pleaser in my home for years. I first discovered it during a busy week when I needed something that could feed my family and still taste amazing. I was looking for something hearty and comforting, and this casserole fit the bill perfectly. The creamy cheese, tender chicken, and crunchy broccoli made it a hit from the first bite. Over time, I’ve made small tweaks to the recipe, but it’s always been a family favorite. It’s the perfect combination of comfort food and nutrition, and it never fails to satisfy those hunger pangs!
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese for this casserole?
A: Yes, you can definitely substitute the cheddar cheese with other types, like Monterey Jack or mozzarella, if you prefer a milder flavor.
Q: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the day before, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes, frozen broccoli can work, but you’ll want to thaw and drain it before adding it to the casserole to avoid excess moisture.
Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Of course! Simply omit the chicken and maybe add more veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes well! After baking, let it cool, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 350°F until warmed through.
Suggestion
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
- Top the casserole with some crispy breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for added crunch.
- Add in some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for an extra veggie boost.
- Serve this casserole with a simple green salad to balance out the richness.
- If you love garlic, consider adding some roasted garlic to the sauce for even more flavor depth.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Rice Casserole is a warm, comforting dish that brings everything you love about cheesy casseroles together in one easy-to-make meal. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing leftovers for the week, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. The creamy cheese sauce, hearty chicken, and fresh broccoli all combine to make the perfect bite every time. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate different tastes, and you can easily make it ahead or freeze it for later. Don’t miss out on this satisfying and delicious casserole—try it today and make it your new go-to recipe!
