Name: Broccoli Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups water.; 2 cups uncooked rice.; 1 -10 ounce can of cream of chicken soup.; 1 -10 ounce can of cream of mushroom soup.; 2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded.; ¼ cup butter.; 1 cup of milk.; 1 small white onion.; 16 ounces broccoli pieces.; 2 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded.

This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole brings together tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce over rice. It’s a hearty, comforting dish that’s easy to make. Simply mix cooked rice and shredded chicken with cream soups, butter, milk, and vegetables. Bake with a layer of cheddar cheese on top until bubbly and delicious. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, and it also stores and reheats well for leftovers.

This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is the perfect one-dish meal that brings together tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and creamy cheese sauce over a bed of rice. It's a hearty and comforting dish that’s easy to prepare.

INGREDIENTS

Water: Used to cook the rice.
Uncooked rice: Forms the base of the casserole, providing a filling and satisfying texture.
Cream of chicken soup: Adds creaminess and flavor to the casserole.
Cream of mushroom soup: Adds additional creaminess and a savory mushroom flavor.
Cooked chicken, shredded: Use leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Butter: Adds richness to the dish.
Milk: Helps to create a creamy sauce for the casserole.
Small white onion: Adds flavor and a slight crunch.
Broccoli pieces: Provides a healthy dose of vegetables and a lovely green color.
Cheddar cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully to create a gooey, cheesy top layer.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, cook the rice according to the package directions.
Step 2:: In a large 9x13 baking pan, combine the cooked rice and shredded chicken. Add in the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, butter, broccoli pieces, and finely chopped white onion. Stir everything together thoroughly, making sure the ingredients are evenly distributed. Mix in 1 cup of the shredded Cheddar cheese.
Step 3:: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the mixture is bubbly and heated through. During the last few minutes of baking, sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded Cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Allow it to melt completely before removing the dish from the oven.
Step 4:: Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes to set. This makes it easier to serve and enhances the flavors.
Step 5:: Serve the hot casserole with a side salad or some breadsticks for a complete meal. Enjoy this comforting and delicious dish with your family and friends!

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve hot with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a balanced meal.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions on medium power.
This casserole also freezes well. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Helpful Notes

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free cream soups and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
You can substitute the broccoli with other vegetables like cauliflower or peas if preferred.
If you prefer a richer flavor, use whole milk or even a bit of heavy cream in place of milk.
Add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper for a little extra kick.

Tips from well-known chefs

Chef Ina Garten suggests using a mixture of cheeses for a more complex flavor, such as a blend of cheddar and Gruyère.
Alton Brown recommends using freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor.