Name: Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole for a Comforting Weeknight Classic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 cup milk; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup chopped onions; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

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Back in the day, cooking often meant creating hearty meals that could feed a crowd with whatever ingredients. That’s how we rolled with casseroles – a true weeknight savior. I remember those cozy dinners where the kitchen would be filled with the aroma of a bubbling casserole, the kind that makes you feel like you’re wrapped in a warm hug.

The Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is one of those timeless classics that never goes out of style. It’s a dish that combines tender chunks of chicken, crisp broccoli, and fluffy rice in a creamy, cheesy sauce, all baked to perfection (enjoy it with a glass of Cold Brewed French Earl Grey Black Tea).

It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best meals are those that bring everyone to the table, sharing stories and smiles over a comforting, homemade dish.

Table of Contents

Why is it Called Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

The name Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole reflects its simplicity and key ingredients. This dish marries chicken, a staple protein, with broccoli, a nutrient-dense vegetable, and rice, a comforting carbohydrate. Traditionally, casseroles emerged as a way to combine leftovers and pantry staples into a single dish, making them economical and efficient.

Chicken and broccoli recipe usage of creamy soup as a base not only adds flavor but also binds the ingredients together, resulting in a dish that is hearty and fulfilling. Its straightforward name captures the essence of comfort food—easy to make and even easier to enjoy!

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

For 4-6 Servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup cooked rice
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup chopped onions
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Steps:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and milk until smooth.
Stir in the cooked chicken, cooked rice, broccoli, onions, garlic, thyme, pepper, and salt. Mix well.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese for a crunchy topping.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes:

For added flavor, you can sauté the onions and garlic before mixing them in.
You can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories: 350 kcal
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

While the chicken and rice casserole is satisfying on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options:

Garlic Bread: A classic accompaniment, garlic bread adds a crunchy texture and aromatic flavor that complements the creamy casserole.
Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the casserole.
Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed vegetables, like carrots or green beans, add color and additional nutrients to your meal.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can serve as a light and sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the broccoli rice casserole.

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At Tales of a Kitchen, I believe in making home-cooked meals that are both delicious and comforting, like this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole. Explore more of my easy and tasty recipes to find your new favorites for every meal of the day.