Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole - featured image

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole: 30-Minute Comfort Fuel


  • Author: Luciana
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A quick and creamy weeknight dinner made with rotisserie chicken, instant rice, and frozen broccoli, baked in a rich cheddar cheese sauce for maximum comfort with minimal effort.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (200g) uncooked instant rice
  • 2 cups (280g) shredded rotisserie chicken
  • 2 cups (200g) frozen broccoli florets, chopped
  • 1.5 cups (170g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 can (300g) cheddar cheese soup
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add instant rice and cook according to package directions (approx. 5 minutes). Drain immediately and set aside.
  3. While rice cooks, chop frozen broccoli into bite-sized pieces. If using fresh broccoli, steam for 2 minutes until tender-crisp and drain well.
  4. In a 1-2 quart baking dish, combine the drained rice, broccoli, and shredded chicken.
  5. Pour the cheddar cheese soup and milk over the mixture. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly coated.
  6. Top with the shredded cheddar cheese.
  7. Bake for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on edges. Optionally broil for 2 minutes for extra crispiness.
  8. Serve hot.

Notes

Use sharp cheddar and grate it yourself for the smoothest sauce; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Ensure frozen broccoli is drained well to avoid a watery casserole. Thigh meat is preferred over breast meat to keep the chicken juicy.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 3
  • Sodium: 800
  • Fat: 20
  • Saturated Fat: 10
  • Carbohydrates: 35
  • Fiber: 4
  • Protein: 30

Keywords: chicken casserole, broccoli rice, comfort food, weeknight dinner, 30 minute meals, rotisserie chicken, cheesy casserole, easy dinner