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Comforting Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

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A creamy, cheesy casserole combining tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and fluffy rice for a quick and comforting family meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (rotisserie chicken works well)
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed until just tender (frozen broccoli can be used)
  • 1 ½ cups cooked white or brown rice (jasmine preferred)
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1 ½ cups whole milk or 2%
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup finely chopped yellow onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • Optional topping: ½ cup panko breadcrumbs mixed with 1 tablespoon melted butter

Instructions

  1. Cook 1 cup uncooked rice according to package instructions (about 15-20 minutes). Fluff and set aside.
  2. Steam 2 cups broccoli florets until bright green and just tender (4-5 minutes).
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent, about 3 minutes.
  4. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  5. Sprinkle flour into the pan, whisking constantly, and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
  6. Slowly whisk in milk and chicken broth. Stir until sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5 minutes.
  7. Lower heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
  8. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika if using. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  9. In a large bowl, gently fold together cooked rice, steamed broccoli, shredded chicken, and cheese sauce.
  10. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread evenly.
  11. If desired, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over casserole.
  12. Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
  13. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting. Avoid overcooking broccoli and rice to maintain texture. Rest casserole before serving to thicken. For gluten-free, substitute flour and breadcrumbs accordingly. Leftovers reheat well in oven to preserve topping crispness.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy chicken casserole, broccoli rice casserole, comfort food, family dinner, easy casserole recipe

Find it online: https://blixfood.com/comforting-cheesy-chicken-broccoli-rice-casserole-easy-homemade-recipe-for-family-meals/