Cozy Broccoli, Rice, Cheese & Chicken Casserole Recipe

Comfort meets convenience in this delightful broccoli rice cheese chicken casserole that promises to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Warm, cheesy layers merge perfectly with tender chicken and vibrant broccoli florets.

Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of creamy textures and robust flavors.

Home cooks adore this one-pan wonder for its simplicity and crowd-pleasing appeal.

Packed with protein and vegetables, this casserole transforms weeknight dinners into memorable meals.

The golden, bubbling cheese creates an irresistible golden crust that beckons everyone to the table.

Prepare to savor every comforting spoonful of this classic family favorite.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Calories: 440 kcal

Servings: 7

Ingredients That Power Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

• Chicken: Lean protein that brings hearty flavor and satisfying substance to the casserole.
• Rice: Fluffy foundation that soaks up delicious sauce and provides comforting texture.

• Broccoli: Vibrant green vegetable packed with nutrients that adds freshness and crunch to the dish.

• Cheese: Creamy melting ingredient that creates rich, golden topping and adds luxurious depth.
• Shredded Cheddar: Sharp cheese that provides tangy undertone and creates irresistible golden crust.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: Silky sauce base that connects ingredients and delivers smooth, velvety consistency.

What to Use for Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Success

• Large mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients and preparing the casserole mixture.
• 9×13-inch baking dish: Essential for assembling and baking the entire casserole.
• Cutting board: Needed for chopping broccoli and chicken.
• Sharp knife: For precise vegetable and chicken preparation.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Crucial for accurately measuring ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Helps mix ingredients smoothly.
• Grater: Useful for shredding cheese if not using pre-shredded.

How to Layer Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Right

• Warm Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 350°F and get your baking dish ready with a quick spray of cooking oil.

• Mix the

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, fluffy rice, tender broccoli florets, and a creamy blend of cheese until everything is evenly coated and looking delicious.

• Layer and Spread

Pour the mouthwatering mixture into your greased baking dish, making sure it’s spread out evenly for perfect bites every time.

• Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and the edges start to bubble with cheesy goodness.

• Cool and Serve

Pull the casserole out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the dish set and makes it easier to serve up those irresistible portions. Grab a serving spoon and get ready to enjoy a comforting meal that’ll make everyone at the table smile.

Flavor Combos to Upgrade Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

• Grate your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded varieties for a creamier, more luxurious melt that coats every bite perfectly.
• Replace rice with cauliflower rice to create a lighter, lower-carbohydrate version that's just as satisfying and delicious.
• Substitute dairy cheese with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternatives to make this recipe friendly for lactose-intolerant or vegan diners.
• Add red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or cayenne pepper to introduce a warm, zesty kick that elevates the classic comfort food flavor profile.
• This casserole freezes beautifully – prepare two dishes and freeze one for an easy future meal that saves time and reduces weeknight cooking stress.

How to Serve Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole with Confidence

• Family Feast Night: Serve this hearty casserole with a fresh garden salad to balance the rich, cheesy flavors and add some crisp vegetables to your meal.
• Comfort Plate Companion: Pair with warm, crusty garlic bread or soft dinner rolls to soak up the delicious cheesy sauce and complete the comforting dinner experience.
• Weekend Wellness Boost: Add a side of steamed green beans or roasted asparagus to increase the vegetable content and create a more nutritionally balanced plate.
• Leftover: Store any remaining casserole in an airtight container and enjoy as a quick lunch the next day, potentially reheating with a sprinkle of extra cheese on top for added zest.

Save and Plan Meals with Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

• Prepare multiple casseroles simultaneously and freeze extra portions for quick weeknight dinners. Wrap tightly in aluminum foil, label with date, and store up to 3 months in freezer.
• Store leftover casserole in airtight containers for 3-4 days. Keep refrigerated at 40°F or below to maintain food safety and taste quality.
• Divide casserole into individual serving sizes before storing. This method helps with quick reheating and prevents unnecessary waste.
• Warm refrigerated or thawed casserole in oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out, ensuring moisture and flavor retention. Add small splash of chicken broth if needed to keep dish succulent.

FAQs

• What type of rice works best in this casserole?

Long-grain white rice is ideal because it stays fluffy and doesn’t become mushy during baking. Brown rice can also work but will require a slightly longer cooking time.

• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli is perfectly fine. Just thaw and drain it completely before adding to the casserole to prevent excess moisture.

• How can I make this dish healthier?

Substitute regular cheese with low-fat cheese, use skinless chicken breast, and add extra vegetables like cauliflower or spinach to increase nutritional value.

• Is this casserole gluten-free?

Not automatically. Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup or make your own cream sauce if you need a gluten-free version. Also, check that your cheese and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Hearty Chicken And Bacon Pasta Casserole Recipe

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• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 7 1x

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Description

This hearty chicken and bacon pasta casserole combines creamy textures with smoky bacon for a comforting meal. Rich layers of cheese, tender chicken, and crisp bacon create a satisfying dinner perfect for family gatherings.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb (454 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 12 oz (340 g) uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsps butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsps all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp paprika (optional)
• ¼ cup chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and preheat oven to 375F (190C).
2. Pasta Preparation: Cook pasta in salted water until al dente, drain completely, and reserve.
3. Protein Searing: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and cook seasoned chicken until golden and thoroughly done. Remove chicken and crisp bacon in the same skillet, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
4. Sauce Creation: Lower skillet heat and craft a smooth roux by melting butter and whisking in flour. Gradually introduce milk and cream, stirring continuously to develop a velvety consistency.
5. Flavor Infusion: Incorporate garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika into the sauce. Melt cheddar and Parmesan cheese until fully integrated and sauce becomes rich and creamy.
6. Casserole Assembly: Fold cooked pasta, chicken, and most bacon pieces into the sauce, ensuring complete coverage. Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish, distributing evenly and topping with remaining bacon fragments.
7. Baking and Finishing: Roast in preheated oven until surface turns golden and edges bubble. Rest for several minutes, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately while piping hot.

Notes

• Optimize Pasta Texture: Cook pasta just al dente to prevent mushiness during baking, as it will continue cooking in the creamy sauce.
• Bacon Crispness Strategy: Reserve some bacon for topping to maintain maximum crunch and provide textural contrast in the final dish.
• Sauce Smoothness Technique: Whisk roux continuously and add dairy gradually to prevent lumps, ensuring a silky, professional-quality sauce.
• Protein Flexibility Option: Substitute chicken with turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or plant-based protein alternatives for dietary adaptability.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 7
• Calories: 652
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 720 mg
• Fat: 36 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 56 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 34 g
• Cholesterol: 145 mg