Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

Introduction

Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheese sauce. It’s a perfect one-dish meal that the whole family will love. This casserole is easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
2 cups cooked white rice
2 cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed or blanched
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (you can also use a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
1/2 cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk (whole or 2% works best)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Cooking spray or extra butter for greasing the baking dish

For the Topping (Optional):

1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter and set it aside.
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and garlic and sauté until they become translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, and stir well to create a roux. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
Slowly pour in the milk while continuously whisking to avoid lumps. Cook and stir until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble.
Reduce the heat to low, and stir in 1 1/4 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until it’s completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and dried thyme (if using). Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and the cheese sauce. Stir everything together until well coated.
Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and melted butter for the topping. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.
Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is bubbly.
Remove the foil and broil for an additional 2-3 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole!

Tips

You can use leftover cooked chicken, rotisserie chicken, or cook chicken breasts specifically for this recipe. Season the chicken with salt and pepper before cooking for extra flavor.
Feel free to add other vegetables like diced bell peppers, peas, or carrots for more color and nutrients.
To make it a complete meal, you can also add cooked crumbled bacon or diced ham to the casserole.
Customize the cheese to your liking. Swiss, Monterey Jack, or Gouda can also be excellent choices.
Make sure the broccoli is steamed or blanched before adding it to the casserole to ensure it’s tender and not crunchy.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Variations

To make it a gluten-free casserole, use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux and substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs.
For a healthier version, use brown rice or cauliflower rice instead of white rice.
Spice it up with some crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Garnish the casserole with fresh chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.

This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with your loved ones!