There’s something truly special about a home-cooked meal that brings family and friends together. I still remember the cozy Sunday afternoons spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, the rich aroma of bubbling casseroles wafting through the air as we gathered around the dining table, laughter and chatter filling the room. One dish that always made an appearance during our family get-togethers was the Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole. It wasn’t just the comforting flavors that made it memorable; it was the stories shared over every bite, the heartwarming memories created, and the way food had a magical ability to connect us all.
As a child, I would eagerly help my grandmother in the kitchen, my tiny hands working alongside hers as she guided me through the recipe. I can still picture the vibrant green of the fresh broccoli as we tossed it into the bubbling pot, the sound of sizzling chicken in the skillet, and the way her eyes would twinkle with joy as she told stories of our family history. Each ingredient seemed to hold a secret, a lesson learned, or a cherished memory. We would gather around the table, plates piled high, as she recounted tales of her own childhood—how her mother made the same casserole when she was growing up, infusing it with love and care, much like she did with us.
Fast forward to today, and I find myself carrying on this cherished tradition. Cooking this Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole for my own family brings back all those warm memories, wrapping us in a comforting embrace of nostalgia. It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends when you want to savor quality time with loved ones. The creamy, cheesy goodness melds beautifully with tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, creating a dish that is not only delightful to eat but also nourishing for the soul.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this casserole is a versatile dish that invites creativity—feel free to throw in leftover veggies or swap in your favorite cheese. It’s all about making it your own while honoring the tradition that brought us here. So, grab your apron, channel your inner chef, and let’s create a meal that will fill your home with warmth and your heart with joy.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Rice Bake
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Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 boneless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- ¾ cup uncooked white rice
- 10 ounces cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and chicken, sautéing for approximately 5 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper. Incorporate the minced garlic, cooking for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Mix in the rice, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and allow it to simmer for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally, and add more broth if necessary to ensure the rice is fully cooked.
- Add the broccoli florets and half of the cheddar cheese, cooking for 2 more minutes until the broccoli becomes tender. Top with the remaining cheese and place the skillet under the broiler for a few minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy this delightful and creamy casserole!
Storing Suggestion
This casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Cooking Tips
Consider substituting the chicken with cooked turkey or a plant-based protein for a different flavor. You can also use brown rice for added nutrition, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. Pair it with a light white wine or a refreshing iced tea.
Ingredient Substitutions
Instead of cream of chicken soup, you can use a homemade cream sauce or a different type of condensed soup, like mushroom or celery. If you prefer, swap out cheddar cheese for mozzarella or a cheese blend.
Seasonal Variations
Incorporate seasonal vegetables like asparagus in spring or spinach in winter for added flavor and nutrition. You can also add sliced bell peppers or peas for extra color and texture.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy and gluten. To make it dairy-free, use dairy-free cheese and cream of chicken soup alternatives. For a gluten-free option, substitute regular rice with gluten-free rice and ensure the broth is gluten-free.
FAQ:
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What type of rice works best in this recipe?
White rice is recommended, but you can also use brown rice. Just be mindful that brown rice will require a longer cooking time.
Can I freeze the chicken and broccoli casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and it will last in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to complement the flavors.
How do I reheat leftovers?
To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also use the microwave in short intervals.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 boneless chicken breasts diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves minced garlic
- ¾ cup uncooked rice
- 10 ounces cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and diced chicken, cooking for around 5 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned and no longer pink inside. Season with salt and pepper. Add minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the rice, cream of chicken soup, and 2 cups of chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender. Add more broth if needed to cook the rice fully.
- Add the broccoli florets and half of the shredded cheese, cooking for another 2 minutes until the broccoli softens slightly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and transfer the skillet to the broiler for a couple of minutes, just until the cheese melts and turns golden brown.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot. Enjoy this cheesy and comforting dish!
