Enjoy a comforting and delicious meal with this Broccoli Rice Cheese Chicken Casserole recipe that is sure to satisfy your cravings.
## Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
## Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, chicken, broccoli, condensed soup, half of the cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Transfer mixture to a greased casserole dish.
4. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Let cool slightly before serving.
## Nutrition Information:
– Serving Size: 1 cup
– Calories: 350
– Total Fat: 15g
– Cholesterol: 65mg
– Sodium: 750mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 25g
– Protein: 25g
## Popular questions:
1. **Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?**
*Yes, you can substitute frozen broccoli for fresh in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain the broccoli before using.*
2. **Can I use a different type of cheese?**
*Feel free to use your favorite cheese or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.*
3. **Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?**
*Leftover turkey can be a great alternative to chicken in this casserole.*
4. **Can I make this ahead of time and bake it later?**
*Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.*
5. **How can I make this recipe vegetarian?**
*Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth or cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken.*
6. **Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?**
*Feel free to customize this recipe by adding in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms.*
7. **Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?**
*Brown rice can be used in place of white rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.*
8. **Is there a way to make this casserole gluten-free?**
*Use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and make sure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.*
9. **Can I freeze this casserole for later?**
*Yes, this casserole can be frozen before baking for a convenient make-ahead meal.*
10. **How can I make the topping more crispy?**
*For a crispy topping, consider adding breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking.*
## Helpful tips:
– Add in some cooked bacon or ham for extra flavor.
– Experiment with different types of cheeses for a unique twist.
– Mix in some cooked quinoa for added protein and texture.
– Top the casserole with crushed potato chips for a crunchy finish.
– Serve with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
– Substitute broccoli with cauliflower for a different variation.
– Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy meal.
– Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.
– For a lighter version, use low-fat cheese and milk.
– Double the recipe for a crowd-pleasing dish at potlucks or gatherings.
## Expert Secrets:
– Ensure the rice is slightly undercooked as it will continue to cook in the casserole.
– Shred the chicken while it’s still warm for easier shredding.
– Steam the broccoli before adding it to the casserole for a vibrant green color and crisp-tender texture.
– Season each component of the casserole separately before combining for even flavor distribution.
– Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to set and make serving easier.
– Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding more garlic powder or spices.
– Use high-quality cheddar cheese for a rich and gooey texture when melted.
– For a creamier consistency, add more milk or a dollop of sour cream to the mixture.
– Use a deep casserole dish to prevent overflow during baking.
– Cover the casserole with foil halfway through baking to prevent the cheese from burning.