Looking for a dish that combines simplicity, comfort, and healthy ingredients? This Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Delight is perfect for cozy family dinners or potlucks. It’s a wholesome meal packed with shredded chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and the nutritious goodness of broccoli, making it a hit for all ages. Easy to prepare and absolutely satisfying, this casserole is a must-try for busy weeknights or when you crave comfort food.
Preparation TIME
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
Ingredients
- 1 pound cooked shredded chicken
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups quick-cooking rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) onion soup
- 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 bag (12–16 oz) frozen broccoli, thawed
- ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
INSTRUCTIONS
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. - Prepare the Rice:
- In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil.
- Add the quick-cooking rice, remove the pot from the heat, and cover it with a lid. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff the rice with a fork.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a separate saucepan, melt ¼ cup unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add the Velveeta cheese, milk, heavy cream, cream of chicken soup, and onion soup.
- Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, thawed broccoli, and the prepared cheese sauce.
- Stir well until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- If desired, sprinkle Panko breadcrumbs on top for an added crunchy texture.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until it becomes bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Presentation
When serving this casserole, use a large serving spoon to scoop out generous portions. Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. The golden, bubbly crust and the creamy, cheesy interior make this dish visually appealing and irresistibly delicious.
This Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Delight is more than just a dish – it’s a comfort-filled experience. It brings together the creamy richness of cheese, the hearty texture of chicken, and the nutritional punch of broccoli, all in one dish. With its quick preparation and rich flavors, this casserole is bound to become a family favorite. Try it today, and savor the perfect blend of taste and simplicity!