Casseroles are a beloved comfort food known for their versatility and simplicity. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or preparing a dish for a potluck, casseroles offer a convenient way to combine various ingredients into one hearty meal. The Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole is an ideal example of how easy and delicious casseroles can be.

This recipe brings together tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, and healthy broccoli, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce. The combination of flavors is a surefire crowd-pleaser, and the texture offers both creaminess and a satisfying crunch if you opt to add panko bread crumbs on top. Best of all, it’s a time-saver—using pre-cooked chicken, frozen broccoli, and instant rice helps streamline the process, making this dish perfect for busy families. In just a few steps, you’ll have a bubbling, golden casserole that’s rich, cheesy, and comforting.

Ingredients Breakdown

• Chicken: Using pre-cooked, shredded chicken, such as rotisserie or leftovers, significantly reduces prep time for this casserole. It’s a great way to repurpose leftover chicken, adding protein without the need for additional cooking. You can also customize the flavor by using different seasonings or marinades from the pre-cooked chicken.
• Rice: Instant rice is a great time-saver for this dish, cooking up quickly and absorbing the savory chicken broth. While white instant rice is typically used, you can easily substitute brown rice or even quinoa if you’re looking for a healthier alternative with more fiber and nutrients.
• Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds a depth of flavor to the rice, making it more savory and rich. For those seeking alternatives, vegetable broth or homemade chicken stock can also be used. Broth enhances the dish’s base and complements the creamy ingredients to create a balanced, flavorful casserole.
• Cream of Onion and Chicken Soup: These canned soups serve as the casserole’s creamy foundation. Not only do they simplify the preparation, but they also contribute to the dish’s classic comfort food texture. If you prefer homemade, you can create your own versions by making a simple roux with milk and sautéed onions or using a cream of mushroom soup as a substitute.
• Velveeta Cheese: Velveeta’s creamy texture is key to achieving that signature smooth, cheesy sauce. It melts perfectly into the rice mixture, creating a velvety finish. For those who prefer a more natural cheese, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp Gruyère can be used as substitutes, though they might alter the consistency slightly.
• Butter, Milk, and Cream: These dairy ingredients add richness to the casserole, enhancing its creamy texture. If you’re looking to reduce fat or calories, you can swap in lower-fat milk, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or even reduce the butter. The casserole will still remain deliciously creamy, just a bit lighter.
• Frozen Broccoli: Frozen broccoli is convenient and requires minimal prep, ensuring that you still get a boost of veggies in this hearty dish. For those who prefer fresh broccoli, lightly steam or blanch it before mixing it into the casserole to ensure it cooks evenly.
• Panko Bread Crumbs (Optional): Sprinkling panko on top adds a delightful crunch to the creamy casserole. This optional step creates textural contrast and makes the dish more dynamic. You can omit it if you prefer a completely creamy casserole or replace it with crushed crackers or regular breadcrumbs.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

• Preparation: Before starting the casserole, it’s essential to gather all the pre-cooked ingredients. Shred the chicken, cook the broccoli as per package instructions (if using frozen), and have the instant rice ready. Proper preparation ensures a smoother cooking process and cuts down on overall cooking time.
• Rice Preparation: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Once boiling, add the instant rice, remove it from heat, cover, and let it sit for 5 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb the flavorful broth fully. Afterward, fluff the rice with a fork to ensure a light and fluffy texture.
• Cheese Mixture: While the rice is still hot, stir in the butter and Velveeta cheese cubes. The residual heat will melt the cheese, creating a creamy and luscious mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure the butter and cheese are fully incorporated into the rice, forming the base for the casserole.
• Combining Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked broccoli, and cheesy rice mixture. Stir until everything is evenly distributed. This ensures that each bite of the casserole contains a balanced mix of chicken, broccoli, and cheesy rice.

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• Adding Creams and Soups: Pour in the cream of onion soup, cream of chicken soup, heavy whipping cream, and milk into the bowl. Stir everything together until it forms a uniform, creamy mixture. This step is crucial for creating the casserole’s rich, decadent texture.
• Final Assembly: Transfer the combined mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure the casserole cooks uniformly. If you’re adding panko bread crumbs, sprinkle them on top to create a crunchy, golden crust.
• Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown, and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. If the topping starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover it with foil halfway through baking.
• Cooling and Serving: Once the casserole is done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This brief cooling period allows the casserole to set, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.

Why This Recipe is a Family Favorite

Casseroles are known for their comforting, all-in-one nature, and this Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole is no exception. It combines flavors and textures that are universally loved, from the cheesy richness to the savory chicken and wholesome broccoli. Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner for the family or serving guests, this casserole is a guaranteed hit.

Its creamy, cheesy nature appeals to both kids and adults, making it a go-to meal for family gatherings. The combination of proteins, grains, and vegetables makes it a well-rounded dish that satisfies hunger and cravings. Additionally, it’s perfect for meal prep—make a big batch, and enjoy the leftovers for days.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. You can easily customize the ingredients to suit your family’s tastes, whether by adding more vegetables, trying different cheeses, or incorporating extra seasonings like garlic or paprika. Whether you follow the recipe to the letter or put your own spin on it, this casserole never disappoints.

Recipe Variations and Customizations

• Healthier Options: If you’re looking to make this casserole lighter, you can use low-fat cheese, replace the heavy cream with light cream or half-and-half, and reduce the butter. Swapping in brown rice for the instant white rice adds fiber, making the dish more nutritious without compromising on flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian-friendly casserole, you can substitute the shredded chicken with tofu, chickpeas, or lentils. Replace the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or another vegetable-based soup. These substitutions maintain the heartiness of the dish while catering to vegetarian diets.
• Different Cheeses: While Velveeta is ideal for creating a smooth, creamy texture, you can easily switch it out for cheddar, Swiss, or Gruyère for a different flavor profile. Sharp cheddar will add a more intense cheese flavor, while Gruyère provides a slightly nutty taste. Combining different cheeses is also a fun way to experiment with this dish.
• Add-Ins: Feel free to get creative by adding other ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or crumbled bacon for extra flavor and texture. You can also spice things up with a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a bit of heat. These add-ins make the casserole more dynamic and can be customized to suit your preferences.

Serving Suggestions

To complement the Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole, consider serving it with a simple green salad, which adds freshness and balances out the richness of the dish. Garlic bread or crusty rolls also pair well, offering a satisfying crunch that complements the casserole’s creamy texture.

For a more well-rounded meal, roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts can be served alongside. Their slight caramelization enhances the flavors of the casserole.

As for beverages, light white wines such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc make excellent pairings, as do non-alcoholic options like lemonade or iced tea, which offer a refreshing contrast to the casserole’s richness.

Leftovers can easily be reheated in the oven or microwave. To keep the topping crispy, consider reheating in the oven and covering it with foil to prevent the cheese from overcooking.

Tips for Success

• Consistency of Rice: Achieving perfectly cooked rice is essential for the texture of your casserole. For instant rice, follow package instructions closely, ensuring that the rice absorbs all the chicken broth without becoming mushy. If using other types of rice, like brown rice, adjust the cooking time accordingly. Brown rice typically requires more liquid and a longer cooking period. Be sure to fluff the rice after cooking to keep it light and airy.
• Cheese Melting Tips: To avoid clumpy cheese, cut the Velveeta into small cubes so it melts evenly. Add the cheese to the hot rice mixture gradually, stirring continuously to achieve a smooth, creamy texture. If you’re using a cheese substitute like cheddar or Monterey Jack, grate it finely and add it slowly to avoid any lumps.
• Broccoli Prep: Properly draining frozen broccoli is crucial to prevent the casserole from becoming watery. After cooking the broccoli according to package instructions, drain it thoroughly using a colander and even press gently with paper towels to remove excess moisture. If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch it beforehand to the right tenderness.
• Even Baking: For an evenly baked casserole with a perfectly browned top, position the dish in the center of the oven. If the top starts browning too quickly, loosely cover the casserole with aluminum foil halfway through the baking process. Also, rotating the dish halfway through baking can help ensure even heat distribution.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days. Make sure the casserole has cooled completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation, which can make it soggy.
• Freezing Tips: For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions or the entire casserole. Wrap the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and foil, or use freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for even reheating.
• Reheating: The best way to reheat is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, until heated through. This method helps retain the crunchy topping. For a quicker option, you can microwave individual portions, but be aware that the topping may lose some of its crispness. To restore some crunch, pop it under the broiler for a minute or two after microwaving.

Nutritional Information

This Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole is a rich, hearty dish with a well-balanced nutritional profile. A typical serving provides approximately 400-500 calories, with around 20-25 grams of protein, 30-35 grams of carbohydrates, and 20-25 grams of fat. The dish is also a good source of calcium from the cheese and vitamin C from the broccoli.

For those looking to reduce the calorie and fat content, there are simple modifications you can make. Opt for low-fat cheese, use reduced-fat or skim milk, and cut back on the butter. Replacing heavy cream with a lighter alternative like half-and-half can further reduce the fat without sacrificing much creaminess. Portion control can also help manage caloric intake, as casseroles are easy to over-serve due to their indulgent nature.

FAQs

• Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen? Yes, fresh broccoli can be used in place of frozen. To prepare it, chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets and steam or blanch it until tender, about 3-5 minutes. Drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture before adding it to the casserole to avoid making the dish watery.
• What can I substitute for Velveeta cheese? If Velveeta isn’t available, you can use other cheeses like sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Swiss. Cheddar will give a stronger flavor, while Monterey Jack and Swiss are milder. Grate these cheeses finely for smooth melting, and consider adding a small amount of cream or milk to replicate Velveeta’s creamy consistency.
• How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too dry? The key to keeping your casserole moist is ensuring there’s enough liquid in the mix. If the casserole seems dry before baking, add a bit more milk or cream to adjust the consistency. Additionally, be careful not to overbake, as this can dry out the dish. Baking just until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbling is the best way to maintain moisture.
• Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. When baking from cold, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through evenly. If you’ve added a topping like panko, it’s best to add it just before baking to maintain its crunch.
• What can I use if I don’t have cream of onion soup? If you don’t have cream of onion soup on hand, cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or even cream of chicken can be substituted. For a homemade option, you can sauté onions in butter, then stir in some flour and milk to create a thickened sauce similar to the canned soups.

Conclusion

This Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole is a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and deliciousness. With its creamy, cheesy goodness and hearty ingredients, it’s no wonder why it’s a family favorite. Plus, the recipe’s flexibility allows for endless variations and customizations, making it easy to tailor to your tastes or dietary preferences.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or simply looking for a quick and satisfying dinner, this casserole delivers every time. Feel free to experiment with different add-ins or cheeses to make the dish your own, and don’t forget to share your version or feedback!

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Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole

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• Author: Christine

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Description

This Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, and nutritious broccoli, all baked together in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe uses convenient ingredients like pre-cooked chicken, instant rice, and frozen broccoli, allowing you to create a hearty, delicious meal with minimal effort. Topped with optional panko bread crumbs, the casserole achieves a satisfying crunch, contrasting beautifully with the creamy filling. It’s a one-dish wonder that can be served as a main course for family dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb shredded chicken
• 2 cups instant rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (10 oz) cream of onion soup
• 1 can (10 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 bag frozen broccoli, cooked and drained
• Panko bread crumbs (optional, for topping)

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Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cook the frozen broccoli according to package instructions and drain thoroughly.
• Boil the chicken broth in a saucepan. Add the instant rice, cover, and let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
• While the rice is still hot, stir in the butter and Velveeta cheese cubes until melted and creamy.
• In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked broccoli, and cheesy rice mixture.
• Add the cream of onion soup, cream of chicken soup, heavy whipping cream, and milk. Stir until well combined.
• Spread the mixture in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Sprinkle panko bread crumbs on top for added crunch (optional).
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
• Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

• Make it your own: This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to substitute or add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers, or mix in some crumbled bacon for extra flavor.
• Cheese options: If you prefer, substitute Velveeta with shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Swiss cheese. For an even richer flavor, try adding a mix of cheeses.
• Healthier alternatives: To make this dish lighter, you can reduce the amount of butter and cream or swap heavy cream for half-and-half. Brown rice can replace instant rice for a higher-fiber option, and using low-fat cheese is another great way to reduce fat content.
• Make-ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When baking from cold, allow an extra 10-15 minutes of cooking time.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. After assembling, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.