If you’re in the mood for a simple yet comforting dish that brings together all the best flavors of a homestyle casserole, look no further than this Easy Baked Chicken Rice And Broccoli Casserole. This dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant broccoli, all brought together with a creamy, cheesy sauce that makes every bite unforgettable. With only a handful of ingredients, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends when you want something hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this recipe is quick to prepare and always a hit at the dinner table.
Interestingly, the roots of casseroles date back to French cuisine, where “casserole” refers to a deep dish used for slow cooking. Over time, this method spread across different cultures, and the classic chicken, rice, and broccoli combo became a favorite in American households. This recipe is an easy and healthier take on a traditional comfort food staple, perfect for families looking for a balanced meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Ingredients
Here’s a detailed list of everything you’ll need to make this Easy Baked Chicken Rice And Broccoli Casserole:
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups of cooked chicken breast (shredded or diced)
- 1 ½ cups of cooked rice (white or brown)
- 2 cups of broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, steamed)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup of sour cream
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup of panko breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- 2 tablespoons of melted butter (optional for topping)
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions for a foolproof Easy Baked Chicken Rice And Broccoli Casserole:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a bit of butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Rice
If you haven’t already done so, cook the chicken and rice. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or simply bake, grill, or poach chicken breasts until fully cooked. As for the rice, cook according to the package instructions (Minute Rice is a quick option), and set aside.
Step 3: Steam the Broccoli
Steam the broccoli until it’s tender but still bright green. If you’re using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain any excess water. You can steam fresh broccoli on the stovetop or microwave it with a bit of water for about 4-5 minutes.
Step 4: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, rice, and steamed broccoli. Add the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until well-mixed and evenly coated.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. If you want an extra crispy topping, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle it over the casserole.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown. If you’re using the breadcrumb topping, the breadcrumbs should be nicely toasted by the end of the baking time.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Pair it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy the rich, creamy flavors of the chicken, rice, and broccoli baked to perfection.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to customize your Easy Baked Chicken Rice And Broccoli Casserole:
Tips for Perfect Casserole
- Pre-cook the Ingredients: Ensure that your chicken, rice, and broccoli are fully cooked before assembling the casserole. This cuts down on the cooking time and ensures even heating.
- Cheese Variations: Swap out cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even Swiss cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate it before baking. Add an additional 10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Healthy Substitutions
- Greek Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream: For a lighter version, use plain Greek yogurt in place of sour cream. It adds a creamy texture with less fat.
- Brown Rice for White Rice: Brown rice adds more fiber and nutrients to the dish without sacrificing taste.
- Low-Fat Cheese: Use low-fat cheddar cheese to reduce the calorie content without skimping on flavor.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give your casserole a spicy twist.
- Vegetable Medley: Instead of just broccoli, consider adding cauliflower, carrots, or peas to the mix for more variety.
- Creamy Chicken and Rice Bake: Replace the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup for a subtle change in flavor.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (assuming 8 servings):
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
This recipe provides a balanced amount of protein, carbohydrates, and fiber while keeping the fat content moderate. Using low-fat ingredients or adding more vegetables can make it even healthier.
This Easy Baked Chicken Rice And Broccoli Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this dish will quickly become a go-to favorite. Packed with protein, veggies, and a creamy sauce, it’s a balanced meal that’s perfect for any occasion.