February 4, 2025

The Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Casserole

Name: The Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3 Chicken Breasts ((large raw breasts)(cubed)); 1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 Teaspoon Onion Powder; 1 Onion ((finely chopped)); 3 Cloves Garlic ((minced)); Salt and Black Ground Pepper ((to taste)); 3 Cups Broccoli Florets ((raw)); 1 Cup Rice ((pre-cooked)(should be 2 cups when the rice is cooked)); 1 (10.5 oz) Can Cream of Chicken Soup; ½ Cup Milk; ½ Cup Sour Cream; 3 Cups Cheddar Cheese ((shredded)(divided)(save one cup to top the casserole)); Salt and Black Ground Pepper ((to taste))

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If you’re looking for the perfect comfort food, The Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Casserole is it! This dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and crisp broccoli, all smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce and baked to golden perfection. It’s a crowd-pleasing dinner that’s easy enough for weeknights but tasty enough to serve at family gatherings. One bite, and you’ll see why it’s a favorite!

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

Chicken Ingredients:

3 Chicken Breasts (large, cubed): Tender and juicy, these provide the hearty protein base for the casserole.
1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder: Adds a savory, earthy depth to season the chicken.
1 Teaspoon Onion Powder: Enhances the flavor with a subtle onion kick.
1 Onion (finely chopped): Adds a mild sweetness and aromatic base when sautéed.
3 Cloves Garlic (minced): Brings bold, fragrant flavor that complements the chicken and veggies.
Salt and Black Ground Pepper (to taste): Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.

Casserole Ingredients:

3 Cups Broccoli Florets (raw): Fresh, crunchy florets that add vibrant color, nutrition, and texture.
1 Cup Rice (pre-cooked; yields 2 cups cooked): Fluffy and hearty, it helps soak up the creamy sauce.
1 (10.5 oz) Can Cream of Chicken Soup: Provides the rich, savory base for the casserole.
½ Cup Milk: Adds creaminess and helps blend the sauce smoothly.
½ Cup Sour Cream: Brings a tangy, velvety texture to the casserole.
3 Cups Cheddar Cheese (shredded; divided): Rich and melty cheese that ties all the flavors together (save 1 cup for topping).
Salt and Black Ground Pepper (to taste): Adjusts the flavor to perfection, adding a finishing touch.

CHEESY CHICKEN BROCCOLI CASSEROLE WILL BE A FAMILY FAVORITE:

It’s comfort food at its best: I love how the creamy sauce, tender chicken, and melty cheese come together to create a warm, satisfying dish that everyone enjoys.
It’s a complete meal in one: With protein, veggies, and carbs all in one casserole, I find it perfect for busy family dinners where I don’t want to spend hours cooking multiple dishes.
It’s customizable and crowd-pleasing: I can easily adjust the seasonings or add extra veggies, and my family always raves about its delicious, well-balanced flavors.

HOW IS A CHICKEN RICE AND BROCCOLI CASSEROLE PERPARED?

Time needed: 45 minutes

Sauté the Onion and Garlic:

Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly coat it with oil. Add the diced onion and cook for 5–7 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Prepare the Chicken:

Season the cubed chicken breasts with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Add the seasoned chicken cubes and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are no longer pink and lightly browned. Set aside.
Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prep the Broccoli and Rice:

If your broccoli florets are large, chop them into smaller, bite-sized pieces. Pre-cook the rice according to package directions, ensuring you have 2 cups of cooked rice.
Mix the Casserole Base:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, ½ cup milk, and ½ cup sour cream. Add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese (save the remaining cup for later) and mix until smooth.
Top with Cheese:

Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Bake the Casserole:

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese on top is melted and golden.
Serve and Enjoy:

Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Dish up hearty portions and enjoy the creamy, cheesy deliciousness!

FAQ – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

I’ve used boneless, skinless chicken thighs before—they’re just as tender and add a rich flavor.

Can I substitute pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?

Yes, I sometimes use rotisserie chicken to save time; just shred it and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of raw?

I prefer fresh broccoli for a nice crunch, but frozen works if you thaw and drain it well.

Can I make the casserole ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble it a day in advance and then bake it when I’m ready to serve.

How do I know when the casserole is done baking?

I look for a bubbly sauce and a golden, melted cheese topping is my cue that it’s ready.

CHICKEN BROCCOLI CASSEROLE RECIPE ADD-INS AND VARIATIONS:

Chicken Alternatives: I sometimes use boneless chicken thighs or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a richer, more tender flavor.
Vegetable Swap: When I’m in the mood for variety, I’ve swapped broccoli with cauliflower or added a red bell pepper for extra crunch and color.
Cheese Options: I like to experiment with different cheeses—like Monterey Jack or pepper jack—to change up the flavor.
Soup Variations: If I want a twist, I substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for an earthier taste.
Grain Substitution: For a healthier twist, I’ve replaced the rice with quinoa, which adds a unique texture and extra protein.
Herb and Spice Boost: To elevate the flavors, I often add extra spices like smoked paprika or fresh herbs like thyme and oregano, giving the casserole an extra kick.

WHAT IS COMMONLY SERVED WITH CHICKEN BROCCOLI CHEDDAR CASSEROLE?

I love serving this casserole with fresh salads, steamed veggies, crusty bread, iced tea, and chilled white wine. It’s perfect for family dinners and potlucks, consistently earning praise.

HOW DO YOU STORE AND REHEAT LEFTOVER BROCCOLI CHICKEN CASSEROLE?

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. When I’m ready to eat them again, I heat a serving in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or I use the microwave if I need it fast. I always cover the dish to keep it moist so it doesn’t dry out. This way, I can enjoy the casserole almost as good as when it was freshly made!

CAN LEFTOVER CHICKEN BROCCOLI CHEESY CASSEROLE BE FROZEN FOR LATER?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers for later. I usually let the casserole cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in the freezer. When ready to enjoy it again, I thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in the oven or microwave. Although the texture might be a bit different after freezing, it will still taste great!

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