Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole

Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole Recipe - Easy and Delicious

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

This Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that is perfect for a family dinner or potluck. It is easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

History

The origins of this recipe are unclear, but casseroles have been a popular dish in American cuisine for decades. This particular combination of chicken, broccoli, rice, and cheese has become a classic comfort food that is loved by many.

Ingredients

2 cups water
2 cups uncooked minute rice
2 x (10 oz (283 g)) cans chunk chicken, drained or fresh chicken breast, cooked, boneless, skinless and cut up in small pieces.
1 x (10.75 oz (305 g)) can cream of mushroom soup
1 x (10.75 oz (305 g)) can cream of chicken soup
1 cup butter
1 cup milk
1 x (16 oz (454 g)) package frozen chopped broccoli or fresh cut into small pieces
1 small white onion, finely chopped
1 lb (454 g) processed cheese

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Mix in the instant rice, cover, and remove from heat. Let it stand for 5 minutes.
In a 9x13 inch baking dish, combine the prepared rice, cooked chicken, both soups, butter, milk, broccoli, onion, and processed cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until the cheese has melted.
Stir halfway through cooking to help the cheese melt evenly.

Variations

You can add some cooked bacon or ham to the casserole for extra flavor.
Try using different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a different taste.
Add some diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cut the chicken into small pieces so that it cooks evenly in the casserole.

- You can use fresh broccoli instead of frozen if you prefer. Just make sure to cut it into small pieces before adding it to the casserole.

- Stirring the casserole halfway through cooking will help the cheese melt evenly and ensure that all the ingredients are well combined.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole can be served on its own as a complete meal, or you can pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a more filling meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use cooked turkey or ham instead of chicken in this recipe.

- If you don't have cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup, you can use any cream-based soup as a substitute.

- You can use regular rice instead of instant rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake it. Just make sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this casserole in a decorative baking dish for a more elegant presentation. You can also garnish it with some chopped parsley or grated cheese before serving.

Pairing Recommendations

This casserole pairs well with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this casserole contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this casserole contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this casserole contains approximately 25 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of this casserole contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This casserole is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese and milk) and wheat (cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soup), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

This Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

This Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or potluck. It is easy to make, nutritious, and can be prepared ahead of time for added convenience. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was many years ago when I first learned how to make Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole. I was visiting my dear friend Martha, who was known for her delicious home-cooked meals. She invited me over for dinner one evening, and as soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the most wonderful aroma.

Martha was busy chopping vegetables and preparing the ingredients for what she called her "signature casserole." She explained that it was a family recipe that had been passed down for generations. I watched intently as she seasoned the chicken, steamed the broccoli, and cooked the rice. The whole process seemed so effortless and yet so full of love and care.

As we sat down to enjoy the meal, I took my first bite of the casserole and was immediately hooked. The flavors were rich and comforting, the textures perfectly balanced. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

I asked Martha if she would be willing to teach me her recipe, and she was more than happy to oblige. She guided me through each step, patiently answering all of my questions and sharing her tips and tricks for making the perfect casserole. By the end of the evening, I had a handwritten copy of the recipe in my hands, along with a full belly and a grateful heart.

Over the years, I have made Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole countless times. It has become a staple in my own kitchen, a go-to dish for family gatherings and potluck dinners. Each time I make it, I am reminded of the special bond that Martha and I shared, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.

The secret to this casserole lies in the simplicity of the ingredients and the care with which they are prepared. The chicken is seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, then cooked until tender and juicy. The broccoli is steamed just until it is bright green and crisp-tender, adding a pop of color and freshness to the dish. And the rice, oh the rice, is cooked until fluffy and perfectly cooked, soaking up all of the delicious flavors of the other ingredients.

But perhaps the most important ingredient in this casserole is love. Love for the food we eat, love for the people we share it with, and love for the memories that it evokes. Whenever I make Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole, I am transported back to that cozy kitchen with Martha, laughing and chatting as we cooked together.

I have since shared this recipe with my own family and friends, passing it down through the generations just as Martha did with me. And with each bite of this comforting casserole, I am reminded of the power of food to bring us together, to nourish not just our bodies but our souls as well.

So the next time you find yourself in need of a warm and comforting meal, why not give Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole a try? I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe one day you'll pass this recipe down to someone special in your life, creating new memories and traditions along the way. Happy cooking!