Did you know the chicken broccoli rice casserole has been a favorite in American homes since the 1950s? It’s more than just a meal; it’s a comfort food that has stood the test of time. This dish has evolved from a quick, family-friendly option to a homemade, wholesome treat that feeds the soul. Find out why this chicken broccoli rice casserole is a must-try in your home.
Key Takeaways
- Chicken broccoli rice casserole is a classic comfort food dish that has remained popular since the 1950s.
- This versatile casserole can be customized with a variety of ingredients like mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini.
- The trend towards homemade, from-scratch versions of classic casseroles has gained momentum in recent years.
- Chicken and rice are a beloved combination, making the chicken broccoli rice casserole a prime example of this classic pairing.
- The homemade cream of chicken soup used in the casserole recipe is both well-loved and easy to prepare.
Creamy, Cheesy Comfort Food Perfection
Get ready to indulge in a classic dish made with unprocessed, from-scratch ingredients. This homemade cream of chicken soup-based classic chicken broccoli rice casserole is the ultimate in creamy and cheesy comfort food perfection.
A Classic Reinvented: From-Scratch Deliciousness
This recipe uses a velvety, flavorful homemade cream of chicken sauce instead of canned soup. It’s made without any mystery ingredients. The dish combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, fluffy rice, and a creamy, cheesy sauce.
This creates a comforting and delicious casserole. It will satisfy your cravings for classic comfort food.
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 511 |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Protein | 23g |
| Fat | 33g |
| Saturated Fat | 17g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 100mg |
| Sodium | 1174mg |
| Potassium | 470mg |
| Vitamin A | 1068IU |
| Vitamin C | 35mg |
| Calcium | 376mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
The recipe calls for 2 cups of diced rotisserie chicken or any other cooked chicken. It also needs 2 cups of broccoli florets, 1 can of cream of chicken soup, 2 cups of cooked rice, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese. The dish is seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
This from-scratch casserole is the perfect solution for a comforting and satisfying meal. With its creamy, cheesy goodness and unprocessed ingredients, it’s a reinvented classic that will quickly become a family favorite.
A Pantry-Friendly, Versatile Dish
This chicken broccoli rice casserole is a kitchen staple. It’s easy to customize to your liking. It uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients you probably have at home. This makes it a great, budget-friendly option for busy weeknights.
This versatile recipe lets you add your favorite veggies, proteins, and cheeses. You can keep it classic with chicken and broccoli or try new things. It’s a blank canvas for your cooking creativity.
Making this easy dinner takes just 50 minutes. Only 10 minutes of that is hands-on. The rest of the time, you can relax while it cooks.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chunk Chicken Breast (canned, drained) | 12.5 oz |
| Frozen Broccoli (thawed and cut into bite-size pieces) | 2 cups |
| Cooked Rice (white or brown) | 2 cups |
| Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup | 10.5 oz |
| Sour Cream | 1/2 cup |
| Shredded Cheddar Cheese | 2 cups |
| Crushed Corn Flakes | 2 cups |
| Melted Butter | 4 tbsp |
This pantry-friendly, versatile dish is loved by all. It’s a mix of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and fluffy rice. Enjoy it any night of the week.
Easy Meal Prep and Freezer-Friendly
This chicken broccoli rice casserole is not just tasty and comforting. It’s also super easy for meal prep and freezing. Making it ahead of time saves you time and effort. It’s perfect for weeknight meals or make-ahead dinners.
You can start preparing the casserole up to 2 days early. Just refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This way, you get a healthy and tasty dinner with little effort.
For even more convenience, freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. When you want a comforting meal, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as usual. It’s easy to have a delicious make-ahead dinner ready when you need it.
This chicken broccoli rice casserole is great for meal prep or a freezer-friendly option. It has tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and fluffy rice. It’s a hit with the whole family.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken Breasts (diced, uncooked) | 1 pound (453.6 grams) |
| Instant Rice (dry) | 1 cup (92 grams) |
| Frozen Broccoli | 16 ounces (453.6 grams) |
| Unsalted Butter | 8 tablespoons (113 grams) |
| Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup | 10.5 ounces (298 grams) |
| Milk (any type) | 1 cup (236.6 grams) |
| Cheddar Cheese (shredded and divided) | 2 cups (226 grams) |
| Fried Onions (topping) | 1 cup (56 grams) |
Preparing this casserole in advance saves time and ensures a nutritious meal. Its meal prep and freezer-friendly features make it a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
Tender Chicken, Crisp Broccoli, and Fluffy Rice
The secret to this delectable chicken broccoli rice casserole is the perfect mix. It has tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and fluffy rice. Each part is cooked just right, making the dish creamy, crunchy, and comforting.
The chicken is seasoned and seared to keep its juices in. It’s then cut into small pieces. Broccoli florets are blanched to keep their color and crunch. The basmati rice is cooked until it’s fluffy and absorbs all the flavors.
Together, these ingredients create a balanced and textural delight. Every bite is a mix of flavors and textures. It’s a true comfort food masterpiece.
“The key to this dish is striking the right balance between the tender chicken, the crisp broccoli, and the fluffy rice. It’s a textural symphony that delights the senses.”
This chicken broccoli rice casserole is perfect for any meal. It impresses with its mix of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and fluffy rice. It’s a balanced and satisfying dish that will make you want more.
Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Bliss
Indulge in our chicken broccoli rice casserole, the ultimate comfort food. It’s a family-friendly dish filled with creamy cheese, tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and fluffy rice. It’s perfect for cozy nights or weekend meals.
The homemade cream of chicken soup is the secret to its flavor. Made from scratch, it creates a creamy sauce. This sauce, along with chicken, broccoli, and rice, makes each bite a delight.
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Fiber | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 2/3 cup | 270kcal | 30g | 8g | 45 minutes |
This chicken broccoli rice casserole is ideal for busy families. It’s a versatile dish that can be a main course, side dish, or brunch option. It’s loved by all.
“This casserole is the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and hearty – a true comfort food classic!”
Looking for a cozy family dinner or a weekend treat? This chicken broccoli rice casserole is a must-try. Enjoy its comforting flavors and satisfying textures, making it a top comfort food choice.
Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup: The Secret Ingredient
The secret to this chicken broccoli rice casserole’s amazing taste and creaminess is the homemade cream of chicken soup. It’s not canned soup, but a homemade version that is thick, velvety, and full of savory chicken flavor. It’s made from a simple roux, chicken broth, and milk, seasoned with spices and herbs. This makes a flavorful and luxurious sauce that makes the whole casserole better.
A Flavorful, Thick, and Velvety Sauce
Making the homemade cream of chicken soup is key to this casserole’s success. Unlike canned soups, this from-scratch sauce is made with quality ingredients for a flavorful and creamy base. The roux, made by cooking flour in butter, gives it a thick and velvety texture. This texture sticks to every bite of chicken and broccoli, making each forkful cohesive and satisfying.
- No canned soups required for this recipe
- Homemade cream of chicken soup is thick, rich, and packed with flavor
- The roux-based sauce provides a luxurious mouthfeel and creaminess
- Carefully selected spices and herbs elevate the overall taste
“The homemade cream of chicken soup is the secret weapon that transforms this casserole into a truly indulgent and comforting dish.”
Cooking Tips and Tricks
To get the best results with this tasty chicken broccoli rice casserole, follow some key cooking tips. First, make sure to season the chicken well before cooking it. This helps keep the flavor locked in.
Also, sauté the vegetables before adding them to the casserole. This makes them taste better and feel nicer in your mouth. And, steam the broccoli until it’s just right. This keeps it green and crunchy.
Seasoning, Sautéing, and Steaming for Perfect Results
By focusing on these steps, you’ll get a perfectly cooked and flavored chicken broccoli rice casserole every time. Start by seasoning the chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper before sautéing. This gives the chicken a tasty crust.
Then, sauté the onions and garlic in butter or olive oil until they smell great. Next, steam the broccoli florets for 3-5 minutes. This keeps them green and firm, matching the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Properly season the chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper before sautéing
- Sauté the onions and garlic in butter or olive oil to create a flavorful base
- Steam the broccoli florets for 3-5 minutes until crisp-tender, preserving their texture and color
By using these cooking tips and techniques, you’ll make a chicken broccoli rice casserole that looks great and tastes amazing. Share it with your loved ones!
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Saturated Fat | 15g |
| Protein | 35g |
| Sodium | 1395mg |
| Calories | 537kcal |
| Calcium | 375mg |
Ingredient Spotlight: Basmati Rice, Sour Cream, and Panko
In this chicken broccoli rice casserole, basmati rice, sour cream, and panko breadcrumbs stand out. Each adds a unique touch, making the dish flavorful and textured.
The basmati rice is light and fluffy, keeping its shape. It pairs well with the chicken and broccoli, creating a cohesive texture.
Sour cream adds a tangy, creamy element. It balances the dish’s richness, making it indulgent and comforting.
The panko breadcrumb topping is the crowning glory. It adds a crunchy contrast to the soft casserole. The topping also browns beautifully, enhancing the dish’s look.
Together, basmati rice, sour cream, and panko breadcrumbs create a perfect blend. They make this chicken broccoli rice casserole unforgettable.
| Ingredient | Contribution |
|---|---|
| Basmati Rice | Provides a light, fluffy texture with distinct grains |
| Sour Cream | Adds a tangy, creamy element to balance the richness |
| Panko Breadcrumbs | Delivers a delightful crunch to the casserole |
“These three ingredients are the unsung heroes that make this chicken broccoli rice casserole truly special.”
Conclusion
The Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a top comfort food for busy families. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and fluffy rice. All these ingredients are mixed in a homemade cream of chicken sauce.
This recipe is easy to make and can be prepared ahead or frozen. It’s perfect for those looking for a quick, satisfying meal.
This chicken broccoli rice casserole is sure to be a hit with your family. It’s great for an easy dinner, a family-friendly meal, or a meal prep option. Enjoy homemade chicken broccoli rice casserole any night you want.
This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious and convenient. It’s a mix of creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and fluffy rice. Its versatility and freezer-friendly nature make it a must-have in every home cook’s collection.
FAQ
What is a chicken broccoli rice casserole?
It’s a comforting dish with tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and fluffy rice. All are baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce.
What makes this chicken broccoli rice casserole recipe special?
It uses homemade cream of chicken sauce. This avoids canned soup, making it healthier and fresher.
Can I customize this chicken broccoli rice casserole?
Yes, you can. Add or swap your favorite veggies, proteins, and cheeses. Make it your own!
Can I make this chicken broccoli rice casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it up to 2 days in advance. Bake when you’re ready. You can also freeze it for later.
What are the key ingredients that make this chicken broccoli rice casserole so delicious?
Basmati rice, sour cream, and panko breadcrumbs are key. They make the casserole light, fluffy, and rich.
What tips can I use to ensure the best results with this chicken broccoli rice casserole?
Season the chicken well. Sauté the veggies and steam the broccoli until just tender. These steps ensure the best texture and flavor.
