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Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prepare your ingredients: Cook the rice and chicken if they aren’t already prepared. Steam or blanch the broccoli until bright green and slightly tender.
  3. Combine the base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, chicken, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, milk, and half of the cheese. Mix until everything is well coated.
  4. Season and pour: Add salt and pepper to taste, then pour the mixture into a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  5. Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top for a golden, melted layer.
  6. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
  7. Serve warm and enjoy!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Cheese grater (if using block cheese)
  • Pot for cooking rice
  • Pan for cooking chicken (if not already cooked)

Tips and Tricks

1. Make it Creamier: If you prefer a creamier texture, add an extra 1/2 cup of milk or a dollop of sour cream to the mixture.

2. Customize Your Cheese: Cheddar is classic here, but you can mix in mozzarella for extra stretchiness or use a sharper cheese like Gruyère for a more complex flavor.

3. Save Time with Rotisserie Chicken: To make prep even faster, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. It’s tender, flavorful, and ready to go.

4. Fresh vs. Frozen Broccoli: Fresh broccoli works best for a firm texture. If you’re using frozen, be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.

5. Add Extra Veggies: Carrots, bell peppers, or even mushrooms can add more nutrition and color. Just chop them small so they cook evenly.


Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to reheat, microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, or bake the whole casserole at 350°F for 15 minutes until warmed through.


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