Broccoli Rice Cheese Chicken

When the week gets busy or I need something comforting and filling for dinner Broccoli Rice Cheese and Chicken Casserole swoops in like the hero it is This recipe is the easiest way to feed my family a balanced meal with almost no fuss and it never fails to earn second helpings at the table

I first tried this casserole on a night I had no plan and only a fridge full of odds and ends My youngest declared it his favorite and since then it is in our regular weeknight rotation

Ingredients

• Long grain white rice: forms the base and soaks up all of the flavor Choose freshly cooked but not sticky rice for best texture
• Cooked chicken: offers savory protein Rotisserie or leftover chicken both work and shredding helps everything blend together
• Broccoli pieces: bring in color nutrients and a little texture Frozen or fresh broccoli both soften in the bake but vibrant green florets always look tastiest
• Cheddar cheese shredded: is essential for that golden gooey top Extra sharp cheddar packs even more flavor
• Cream of chicken soup: gives a silky texture and deepens the chicken flavor Use low sodium for a lighter touch
• Cream of mushroom soup: creates creaminess and adds that earthy undertone Check the label for a short ingredient list
• Butter: adds richness and helps everything meld when heated Unsalted works but I like a pinch of salt
• Milk: thins out the mix for that perfect scoopable consistency Whole milk gives the creamiest result
• Small white onion minced and sautéed: until translucent adds savory depth Sweet onion works too if that is what you have

Instructions

Prepare the rice:

Cook rice using the absorption method for barely tender grains Fluff gently with a fork to let extra steam escape This helps keep the casserole from getting soggy

Mix the filling:

In your large baking pan combine warm cooked rice with the shredded chicken Sprinkle in the onion pieces then add both cans of condensed soup and the milk Mix until you no longer see dry rice or uneven sauce

Add the broccoli and butter:

Scatter broccoli pieces over the surface Cut the butter into small pieces and dot it over the top then stir gently until everything is evenly distributed

Add cheese and blend:

Fold in half of your shredded cheddar until it is well incorporated This will melt through the casserole as it bakes infusing every bite with cheesy flavor

Bake the casserole:

Spread the mixture into an even layer and bake uncovered at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit for thirty to thirty five minutes The top should look set and just starting to crisp around the edges

Finish with cheesy topping:

During the final five minutes sprinkle the remaining cheddar over the surface Return to oven so it melts into a bubbly golden crust

Rest and serve:

Remove from oven and let the casserole rest five minutes The filling will thicken slightly and scooping out portions is easier Serve with a fresh salad or warm breadsticks for a full meal

I always look forward to the magic of cheddar cheese bubbling on top My favorite moment is when the first slice gets pulled out and you see those strings of melted cheese the kids always call dibs on the cheesiest corners

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool before wrapping them tightly in foil or a sealed container Store in the refrigerator for up to three days Reheat in the oven to keep the top crusty or microwave for convenience This casserole also freezes beautifully either whole or in individual portions Make sure it is well cooled and double wrapped for best texture on reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have cream of mushroom soup double the cream of chicken or use cream of celery Swap fresh broccoli with cauliflower or chopped spinach for a new twist A mix of any melty cheese works but cheddar keeps it classic Turkey can easily stand in for chicken when you need to use up holiday leftovers

Serving Suggestions

Serve this casserole hot alongside a crisp green salad with a tart vinaigrette A side of roasted carrots or steamed green beans brightens up the plate For special occasions I sometimes stir in a little garlic powder or top with crunchy breadcrumbs before serving for extra texture

Cultural Context

Casseroles have long been a staple of American kitchens especially in the Midwest They are the ultimate comfort food blending leftovers and pantry basics into one hearty meal This version is inspired by classic church suppers and family reunions where everyone brings a bubbling pan for the potluck

Seasonal Adaptations

Add peas or corn with the broccoli in spring and summer Try diced sweet potato or roasted squash in fall Swap the cheddar for pepper jack on nights when you crave a little spice

Success Stories

Every time I make this casserole for a friend who needs a warm meal I get a thank you call before the night is out It is also my go to dish for welcoming new neighbors or feeding a crowd on a busy weeknight

Freezer Meal Conversion

Assemble everything up to the baking step but do not bake Cover tightly and freeze for up to two months Thaw overnight in the fridge then bake as usual Add extra cheese just before the end for the freshest flavor

This dish is always a crowd pleaser and it is a family favorite that brings back fond memories of potlucks and after school dinners Once you have tried it you will want to keep it on regular dinner rotation

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Yes, chop fresh broccoli into small florets and steam lightly before mixing for best texture.

→ What type of rice works best?

Regular long-grain white rice is classic, but you can use brown rice if you cook it fully before adding.

→ Can I substitute the chicken?

Cooked turkey or rotisserie chicken are great alternatives. You can also use leftover roast chicken.

→ How do I store leftover casserole?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead?

Absolutely! Assemble the ingredients, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve for fresh flavor.