Are you craving a mouthwatering, nutritious meal that combines the perfect blend of protein, whole grains, and vegetables in one irresistible dish? Look no further than this incredible Chicken Broccoli and Brown Rice Casserole! This crowd-pleasing recipe is about to become your new family favorite, offering a delightful combination of creamy, cheesy goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you're a busy parent looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a home cook wanting to impress, this casserole is your ultimate solution to a satisfying and wholesome meal.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of cooked brown rice, 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken, and 2 cups of broccoli florets. Make sure the broccoli is washed and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Add the can of cream of chicken soup to the mixture. This will serve as a creamy base for your casserole, binding all the ingredients together.
- Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, reserving a small amount for topping later. Mix everything together until all ingredients are well combined.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Be sure to taste as you go to achieve your desired flavor.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly across the dish to ensure even cooking.
- Sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole for a delicious cheesy crust.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the casserole from drying out during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld and the casserole to heat through.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This will make it easier to cut and serve.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Chicken Broccoli and Brown Rice Casserole!
Tips
- Prep Smart: Use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor to your casserole.
- Broccoli Perfection: For the best texture, slightly undercook your broccoli before adding it to the casserole. This prevents it from becoming mushy during baking.
- Cheese Hack: For an extra flavor boost, mix different types of cheese like sharp cheddar and monterey jack.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
- Customize Your Casserole: Feel free to add additional vegetables like diced bell peppers or spinach to increase nutritional value.
- Crispy Top Secret: For an extra crispy top, sprinkle some breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the cheese before the final baking stage.
- Moisture Control: If the casserole seems too dry, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to maintain a creamy consistency.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 70mg
