Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Introduction:

When it comes to classic comfort food, few dishes rival the beloved Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole. This hearty and satisfying dish combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and fluffy rice, all baked together in a creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or potluck dinners, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. Join us as we share our recipe for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole and get ready to enjoy a cozy and comforting meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 packets (5.7 oz each) Knorr Cheddar Broccoli Rice
• 2 cans (10 oz each) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 2½ cups cooked chicken, cubed or shredded
• 1 can (14.5 oz) chicken broth
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 bag (10.8 oz) steamfresh frozen broccoli florets
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350℉ (177℃). Spray a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
2. Cook the steamfresh frozen broccoli according to package directions (usually around 5 minutes). Place the broccoli in the microwave to cook while you prepare the rest.
3. In a large mixing bowl, add the rice packet contents, condensed cream of chicken soup, cooked chicken, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix well to combine thoroughly.
4. Pour the mixture from the bowl into the prepared baking dish.
5. Top the casserole with the steamed broccoli and evenly sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are browned, the casserole is bubbly, the cheese is melted, and the rice is cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
8. Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes | Total Time: 35-40 minutes
9. Kcal: Approximately 350 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings

Serving Tips:

1. Portion Control: Use a spatula or serving spoon to portion out servings of the casserole onto individual plates. Ensure that each serving has a generous amount of chicken, broccoli, rice, and creamy sauce for a well-balanced meal.
2. Garnish Before Serving: Just before serving, garnish the casserole with fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color and added flavor. This enhances the presentation of the dish and makes it more visually appealing.
3. Pair with Side Dishes: Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, garlic bread, or dinner rolls to round out the meal.
4. Serve Family-Style: Place the baking dish of Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole directly on the dining table and let everyone help themselves. This creates a cozy and communal dining experience, perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners with friends.
5. Reheating Leftovers: If you have leftovers, reheat them in the microwave or oven until warmed through before serving. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent the casserole from drying out during reheating.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration: Store any leftover Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to the container to maintain its freshness.
2. Freezing: Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole can be frozen for longer-term storage. Place individual portions or the entire casserole in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag, and label with the date. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
3. Thawing Frozen Casserole: When ready to enjoy frozen leftovers, transfer the casserole from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. Reheat the thawed casserole in the microwave or oven until heated through.
4. Avoid Freezing with Creamy Sauces: While the chicken, rice, and broccoli can be frozen without issue, creamy sauces may separate or become grainy upon thawing. If freezing the casserole, consider making the sauce fresh when reheating for the best results.
5. Batch Cooking: Consider making a double batch of Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole and freezing individual portions for quick and convenient meals later on. This is especially handy for busy weeknights when you need a hearty and satisfying meal in a pinch.

FAQs:

1. Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?
   • Yes, you can use frozen broccoli in Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole. Simply thaw the frozen broccoli before adding it to the casserole, or blanch it quickly in boiling water to thaw and soften it.
2. Can I use leftover cooked chicken in this casserole?
   • Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken works well in this recipe. You can use shredded or diced cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken, to save time and reduce food waste.
3. Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup with another soup variety?
   • While cream of chicken soup adds flavor and creaminess to the casserole, you can experiment with other soup varieties such as cream of mushroom or cream of celery if preferred. Keep in mind that it may alter the flavor profile slightly.
4. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can assemble Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the assembled casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
5. How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
   • The casserole is fully cooked when it is hot and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs on top are golden brown and crispy. You can also check the internal temperature of the casserole with a food thermometer; it should register 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.