BROCCOLI, RICE, CHEESE, AND CHICKEN CASSEROLE

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Welcome to a world of creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting flavors with our Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole. This dish is a beloved classic in my household, and once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a favorite for weeknight dinners and family gatherings alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, and crisp broccoli, all enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for making ahead. Whether you’re using fresh chicken breasts or leftover rotisserie chicken, this dish adapts beautifully to what you have on hand.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot
• 9 x 13 casserole dish
• Oven
• Cutting board and knife
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

• 2 Tablespoons butter
• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, or 2 cups diced rotisserie chicken
• 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
• Salt/Pepper, to taste
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 1 1/4 cups white long grain rice, uncooked
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, uncooked
• 10.5 oz. Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, separated

Optional Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Casserole Topping

• 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed
• 2 Tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
2. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with Italian seasoning and desired amount of salt and pepper.
3. Heat butter in a large pot over medium heat until melted. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside. Note: This step is not needed if using a cooked rotisserie chicken.
4. Add the chicken broth, olive oil, and rice to the pot and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
5. Cover tightly and cook for 7 minutes.
6. Add the broccoli (if using fresh) and replace the cover. Cook for 8 more minutes. Refrain from stirring.
7. Turn off the heat and remove the cover. Let the rice stand for 10 minutes, do not stir. Any rice on the bottom of the pot will release.
8. Add the cooked chicken, soup, milk, sour cream, optional seasonings, and half of the cheddar cheese.
9. Add to a lightly greased 9 x 13 casserole dish and top with remaining cheese.
10. Cover and bake for 15 minutes.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the rice is cooked properly by not stirring during the simmering process. This helps avoid mushy rice.
• If you prefer a crunchy topping, add the crushed Ritz crackers and butter mixture in the last 5 minutes of baking.

Additional Tips and Variations

Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties for a unique flavor profile. You can also add cooked bacon or mushrooms for extra depth and texture.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This dish is rich in protein from the chicken and cheese, while also providing a healthy dose of vitamins from the broccoli. Remember to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

Can I use brown rice instead?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as brown rice takes longer to cook.

Conclusion

Ready to dive into a dish that promises warmth and satisfaction in every bite? Try out this Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole and let us know how it turned out for you. Don’t forget to share your variations and tips in the comments below!

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