There’s nothing quite like a warm, bubbling casserole on a cold evening, and this Creamy Broccoli, Chicken, and Cheddar Rice Casserole hits all the right notes. With tender bites of chicken, perfectly cooked rice, vibrant broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, this dish brings comfort to the dinner table in every bite. It’s not only satisfying but also packed with flavors and nutrients, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights or a family gathering. Best of all, this casserole can be made ahead of time, making it both convenient and delicious.

Ingredients:

For the Casserole:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
• 2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 ½ cups milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Topping (optional):

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with non-stick spray or butter.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, cook the long-grain white rice according to package instructions. Set aside. You can also use leftover cooked rice for this recipe, making it even quicker to assemble.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

If your chicken is not already cooked, now’s the time to do so. You can poach the chicken in boiling water for 10-15 minutes or roast it in the oven until it’s fully cooked through. Once done, shred or cube the chicken and set it aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Stir in the sautéed onions and garlic, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Blanch the Broccoli (if using fresh)

If using fresh broccoli, blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside. If using frozen broccoli, ensure it is thawed and well-drained before adding it to the casserole.

Step 7: Assemble the Casserole

In your prepared casserole dish, layer the cooked rice, shredded chicken, and broccoli florets evenly. Pour the creamy sauce over the top, making sure all the ingredients are well coated. Stir gently to combine everything. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top.

Step 8: Prepare the Optional Topping

In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the casserole for added crunch and texture.

Step 9: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly, and the cheese is fully melted.

Step 10: Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to slice.

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COOKING NOTES:

• Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When ready to bake, add 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
• Substitutions: You can easily swap the chicken for turkey, making this a great dish to use up leftover turkey from holidays. You can also use a combination of other cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella, for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetable Variations: If you’re looking to add more veggies, you can include peas, carrots, or even cauliflower to the casserole. Just be sure to cook them slightly beforehand so they blend seamlessly with the other ingredients.

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Serving Suggestions:

This Creamy Broccoli, Chicken, and Cheddar Rice Casserole is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a light side salad or some steamed vegetables. You can also serve it alongside a crusty piece of bread to help scoop up all the creamy sauce. For a lighter option, consider pairing it with roasted Brussels sprouts or a fresh cucumber salad for a nice contrast.

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Tips:

1. Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using rotisserie chicken, which is already cooked and perfectly tender. Simply shred it and add it to the casserole for a quick meal.
2. Cream of Soup Alternatives: If you prefer a homemade alternative to the canned soups, you can make a quick béchamel sauce by combining butter, flour, and milk to create a thickened base.
3. Rice Variations: You can swap white rice for brown rice or even quinoa for a heartier, more nutritious casserole. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time for the grains you choose.
4. Freezer-Friendly: This casserole freezes exceptionally well. Assemble the casserole without the breadcrumb topping, then freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and add the breadcrumb topping just before placing it in the oven.

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Prep Time:

• 20 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 35 minutes

Total Time:

• 55 minutes

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 25g
• Sodium: 800mg (Values are based on 6 servings)

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Conclusion:

There’s a reason why casseroles have stood the test of time in family kitchens—they’re easy to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for feeding a crowd. This Creamy Broccoli, Chicken, and Cheddar Rice Casserole offers a comforting blend of ingredients that are not only satisfying but also nutritious. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or looking for a freezer-friendly dish to make ahead, this casserole will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation. The combination of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, cheesy goodness, and creamy sauce makes every bite irresistible.

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