Amazing Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole

Oh, this Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole is just the definition of comfort food for my family! Seriously, it’s one of those dishes that just makes everyone happy, no matter the season. I’ve been making this for years, tweaking it just a little bit here and there until it became the absolute go-to for busy weeknights. It’s so satisfying to pull a bubbling, cheesy dish like this out of the oven, knowing everyone will love it. It reminds me of those cozy fall dinners we used to have, and honestly, it’s just one of those recipes you can totally count on.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole

Seriously, what’s not to love about this dish? It’s the ultimate weeknight warrior, hitting all the right notes:

• So Easy! You can whip this up with minimal fuss, making it perfect for even the busiest evenings.
• Super Quick! We’re talking deliciousness in under an hour, total. It’s one of those lifesavers when you’re short on time.
• Packed with Flavor! Tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, vibrant broccoli, and that dreamy, gooey cheese sauce? Yes, please!
• Family Approved! This is the kind of meal that gets rave reviews from everyone, from picky eaters to grown-ups.
• Perfect for Fall! It’s hearty, warm, and oh-so-cozy, making it an absolute must-have for those Yummy Fall Recipes Dinners.

Gathering Your Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole

Okay, so getting ready to make this amazing casserole is half the fun, right? It’s all about bringing together simple, everyday ingredients that magically transform into something spectacular. I always try to grab the freshest stuff I can – good quality chicken and bright green broccoli really make a difference, trust me! This recipe is a fantastic example of how you can make a super satisfying and delicious meal without breaking the bank; it’s definitely one of those perfect Cheap Family Casseroles that everyone asks for seconds of. Getting these few key players together is the first step to pure cheesy, creamy goodness!

Core Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to gather up. It’s pretty straightforward stuff, which is part of why I love it so much!

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, about 1-inch pieces
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup, undiluted
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, packed
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional garnish)

Ingredient Notes and Simple Substitutions

A few little notes on these ingredients can make this even better! For the soup, while cream of chicken is classic, you could totally swap it for cream of mushroom if that’s what you have on hand – it adds a slightly different, richer flavor. And cheese? Cheddar is king here, but a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack is also amazing. If you’re feeling fancy, a little pinch of garlic powder with the chicken seasoning or even a dash of onion powder takes it up a notch. This recipe is also a fantastic base if you’re aiming for a Broccoli And Cheddar Casserole vibe – just load up on that cheese!

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Your Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole

Alright, let’s get this amazing casserole into the oven! It’s honestly so straightforward, making it a total dream for those nights when you just need something delicious without a ton of fuss. This is what makes it one of my favorite Quick Chicken And Broccoli Casserole recipes, and it’s so satisfyingly easy. You’ll see how quickly these simple steps come together to create something truly special, and it’s a fantastic way to make some Easy Dishes With Rice that your whole family will gobble up.

Preparing the Chicken and Rice

First things first, get that oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and ready. Now, take your cubed chicken and give it a good sprinkle of salt and pepper – don’t be shy! Heat up that olive oil in a big skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the chicken and cook it until it’s beautifully browned on all sides and cooked through. Once it’s done, scoop it out and set it aside for a minute. In that same skillet (less cleanup, woohoo!), add your uncooked rice and 2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil, then turn the heat down low, pop a lid on, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until all that water is soaked up.

Combining the Casserole Mixture

Now for the magic! To the skillet with your perfectly cooked rice, stir in the broccoli florets, that can of condensed cream of chicken soup (undiluted, remember!), your shredded cheddar cheese, the milk, and the sour cream. Give it all a good stir until everything is looking creamy and combined. Next, add that cooked chicken back into the skillet. Stir it all together gently until everything is beautifully mixed. You want it to look like a wonderfully thick, cheesy hug for your chicken and rice!

Baking Your Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole to Perfection

Once everything is mixed up, pour this glorious concoction into your greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Now, pop it into that preheated oven. You’ll want to bake it for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it – you’re looking for it to be bubbly around the edges and just heated all the way through. If you’re feeling it, you can sprinkle a little extra cheese on top during the last few minutes for an even cheesier crust! This step is where it becomes a true example of fantastic Cubed Chicken Dinner Ideas.

Tips for an Extra Delicious Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole

Want to take this already amazing casserole to the next level? I’ve got you covered! For a super crispy topping, I love to sprinkle a little extra shredded cheddar cheese or some buttery breadcrumbs on top during the last 5-10 minutes of baking. It adds such a lovely crunch! If you’re looking to amp up the flavor even more, a little pinch of garlic powder mixed in with the chicken seasoning before you cook it is pure genius. Sometimes I even add a tiny bit of onion powder too. These little touches really make a difference and show how you can build on a great recipe!

Serving and Storing Your Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole

This casserole is pretty much a meal in itself, but it’s also fantastic served with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for soaking up any extra cheesy goodness. If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), storing them is super easy. Just let the casserole cool down a bit, then cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil, or transfer portions to an airtight container. It’ll keep nicely in the fridge for about 3-4 days. To reheat, just pop a portion back in the oven at around 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or you can even zap it in the microwave for a quick fix!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole

Got questions? I’ve got answers! This casserole is pretty flexible, so don’t be afraid to ask.

Can I make this Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole ahead of time?

Oh yeah, you totally can! Just assemble the casserole (but don’t bake it yet). Cover it well and pop it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, you might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Easy peasy!

Are there healthier options for this Cheese Broccoli Chicken Casserole?

Absolutely! To make it a bit lighter, try using reduced-fat cream of chicken soup, low-fat milk, and a reduced-fat cheddar cheese. You could also add more broccoli or even some other veggies like peas or carrots to boost the nutrition. It’s still super yummy and fits into those “Casseroles Recipes Healthy” goals!

Sharing Your Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole Experience

Did you try making this amazing casserole? I’d absolutely love to hear what you thought! Drop a comment below and let me know how it turned out for you, or give it a star rating. Your feedback helps other cooks out there! You can also find more great recipes on Pinterest.

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