Introduction
Chicken broccoli rice casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and fluffy rice in a creamy sauce. This one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights, as it is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Not only is it satisfying, but it also provides a balanced combination of protein and vegetables, making it a family favorite.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 1 can (of 10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– ½ cup milk
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Prep Time
Prep time for this delicious casserole is approximately 15 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients and preparing them for the cooking process.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time is around 30 minutes, making the total time for the entire recipe approximately 45 minutes. This casserole yields about 6 servings, perfect for a family meal or leftovers for lunch. Enjoy this tasty and nutritious dish that is sure to please every palate!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken breast and cook until it’s no longer pink, usually about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
To the skillet with the chicken, add broccoli florets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.
Step 4: Mix in Rice
Stir in cooked rice into the skillet with chicken and broccoli, ensuring everything is well combined.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 6: Combine All Ingredients
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, broccoli, and rice mixture, stirring well to combine everything evenly.
Step 7: Transfer to Baking Dish
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 8: Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Step 9: Remove Foil and Add Cheese
After 25 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Return to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Note 1
You can use leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken for an easier preparation.
Note 2
Feel free to substitute other vegetables such as carrots or peas based on your preference.
Note 3
This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
Note 4
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Cook techniques
Cooking Chicken
Cook the chicken thoroughly in a skillet before adding it to the casserole. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F to guarantee safety and avoid any potential foodborne illness.
Cooking Broccoli
Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for a few minutes until vibrant green and slightly tender. This enhances its flavor and ensures it cooks evenly in the casserole.
Cooking Rice
Use long-grain white rice for this recipe, and cook it according to package instructions. This provides a fluffy texture that will absorb the flavors of the casserole.
Combining Ingredients
Mix all ingredients evenly before pouring them into the baking dish. This ensures that every bite has a consistent flavor and texture.
Baking the Casserole
Bake in a preheated oven until bubbly and golden on top. This helps meld the flavors together and creates a delightful crust.
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw it and drain excess water before adding it to the casserole.
What can I substitute for chicken?
You can substitute shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked turkey if you prefer.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, however, you will need to adjust the cooking time, as brown rice takes longer to cook.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers to customize the dish.
Conclusion
This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and flavorful rice into a comforting meal. The creamy texture and savory taste make it a family favorite while also providing an easy way to incorporate vegetables into your dinner. It’s perfect for busy nights and can be prepared in advance, making it a convenient option for meal planning.
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