If you’re looking for a warm, comforting meal, this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole is just the ticket! It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for the whole family. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a dish for a weekend gathering, this casserole has got you covered.
Why Make This Recipe
This dish is not only delicious, but it also uses ingredients you might already have on hand. With juicy rotisserie chicken, fresh broccoli, and gooey cheese, it’s a tasty way to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it takes about 30 minutes to bake, making it a great choice for busy days!
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole
Ingredients:
- 2 cups diced rotisserie chicken
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 1⁄2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1⁄2 cup mayonnaise
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste
- Onion powder, to taste
- 1⁄2 – 3⁄4 cup crushed corn flakes
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced rotisserie chicken, broccoli florets, cream of chicken soup, cooked rice, shredded cheese, and mayonnaise. Add the seasoning (salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder) to taste and mix until fully combined.
- Pour the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix the crushed corn flakes with the melted butter until well coated.
- Sprinkle the buttered corn flakes evenly over the casserole.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and enjoy!
How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole
Serve this casserole hot from the oven. It’s great on its own, but you can pair it with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. Your family will love the cheesy bites packed with veggies!
How to Store Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole
If you have leftovers (if there are any!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay good for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Tips to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole
- For extra flavor, add your favorite spices or herbs to the mixture.
- If you like a bit of crunch, you can add more crushed corn flakes on top before baking.
- Make it a complete meal by adding other veggies like bell peppers or corn.
Variation
You can easily swap the rotisserie chicken for cooked turkey or even make it vegetarian by using chickpeas instead. Feel free to try different types of cheese for unique flavors!
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you can cook and shred fresh chicken. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the casserole.
2. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! You can freeze it before baking. Just wrap it tightly and store it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.
3. How do I make it healthier?
You can use low-fat mayonnaise and reduced-fat cheese to cut down on calories. Adding more vegetables will also boost the nutrition!