This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole recipe is not only delicious but also provides a healthy and balanced meal for you and your family. In this article, we’ll explore the nutritional benefits of this dish, discuss some frequently asked questions, and provide step-by-step instructions to make this mouthwatering casserole.
How to Prepare Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather all the ingredients needed to make this delectable casserole:
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups uncooked instant rice
- 2 10 ounce cans chunk chicken, drained
- 1 10.75 ounce can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 10.75 ounce can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 cup milk
- 1 16 ounce package frozen chopped broccoli
- 1 small white onion chopped
- 1 pound processed cheese food
Directions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F to ensure it’s ready for baking when your casserole is assembled.
Cook the Rice:
In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the 2 cups of uncooked instant rice, cover the saucepan, and remove it from the heat. Let the rice stand for about 5 minutes until it’s fully cooked and fluffed.
Prepare the Casserole Mixture:
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine the cooked rice, drained chunk chicken, condensed cream of mushroom soup, condensed cream of chicken soup, butter, milk, frozen chopped broccoli, chopped white onion, and processed cheese food. Mix everything together until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Bake the Casserole:
Place the baking dish with the casserole mixture into the preheated oven. Bake it for 30 to 35 minutes or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbling. To ensure even melting, stir the mixture halfway through the cooking process.
Serve and Enjoy:
Once the casserole is out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with some fresh herbs if desired, and get ready to enjoy the creamy and comforting flavors of this amazing dish.
Is Broccoli Chicken and Rice Healthy?
Absolutely! Broccoli, chicken, and rice are all nutritious ingredients that contribute to a healthy diet. Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable packed with vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. It is known for its high levels of vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate, along with antioxidants that help protect against various diseases. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. Rice, when consumed in moderation, provides energy, dietary fiber, and important nutrients like B vitamins and minerals.
The combination of these ingredients makes for a wholesome and balanced meal. A typical serving of Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole provides approximately 550 calories, 65g of carbs, 9g of fat, and 43g of protein.
What to Serve with Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?
While this casserole is satisfying on its own, you can enhance your meal by serving it with delicious side dishes. Here are 10 options that pair well with Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole:
1. Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
2. Crispy Baked Zucchini Chips
3. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts
4. Garlic Knots
5. Crispy Smashed Potatoes
6. Cheesy Corn Fritters
7. Cheesy Cauliflower Bake
8. Roasted Green Beans
These side dishes add variety, flavors, and textures to your meal, creating a well-rounded dining experience.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use either fresh or frozen broccoli for this casserole. Frozen broccoli is a convenient option and retains its nutritional value, making it an excellent choice.
Can I use a rotisserie chicken?
Certainly! Using a rotisserie chicken is a time-saving option. Just make sure to choose one that is well-seasoned to enhance the flavors of the casserole.
Can I add sour cream to this chicken broccoli casserole?
While it is a matter of personal preference, the homemade sauce in this recipe is already rich and creamy. Adding sour cream is not necessary, but if you enjoy the tanginess, you can stir in a small amount.
Can I use brown rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice instead of instant rice. However, long-grain white rice works best in terms of texture and taste.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can easily make this casserole gluten-free by using gluten-free flour in the sauce. This way, individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease can also enjoy this delicious dish.
What are some examples of processed cheese?
Processed cheeses encompass a range of varieties, including American cheese and various cheese spreads. These cheeses are created by blending different types of cheese or combining portions of the same cheese that are at varying stages of ripeness.
Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups uncooked instant rice
- 2 10 ounce cans chunk chicken, drained
- 1 10.75 ounce can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 10.75 ounce can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 cup milk
- 1 16 ounce package frozen chopped broccoli
- 1 small white onion chopped
- 1 pound processed cheese food
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Mix in the instant rice, cover, and remove from heat. Let stand 5 minutes.
- In a 9×13 inch baking dish, mix the prepared rice, chicken, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, butter, milk, broccoli, onion, and processed cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until cheese is melted. Stir halfway through cooking to help cheese melt evenly.
Notes
