Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Bake

When it comes to comforting meals, few dishes evoke the same warm feelings as a casserole. Casseroles are the epitome of home-cooked goodness, offering a blend of flavors and textures that come together in one hearty dish. Among the myriad options available, the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Bake stands out as a quintessential family-friendly recipe that promises to please even the pickiest of eaters. This dish not only satisfies hunger but also brings families together around the dinner table, making it a staple for weeknight meals.

Discover the warmth of home-cooked meals with this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Bake, a comforting casserole that's perfect for the whole family. This dish combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheese, creating a delicious blend that even picky eaters will love. It's straightforward to prepare using rotisserie chicken and frozen broccoli, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Enjoy a nutritious meal that brings everyone together around the dinner table!

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Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)

1 ½ cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)

2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup cream of chicken soup

1 cup milk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

1 teaspoon paprika (for garnish)

½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for breadcrumbs)

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare Chicken and Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, steam it until tender (about 3-4 minutes) and cut into small pieces. This step is optional if you are using frozen broccoli.

Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, broccoli florets, sharp cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Prepare Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil (or melted butter) and an optional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Stir until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.

Top the Bake: Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the rice bake, ensuring it's coated to create a crunchy topping. Dust lightly with paprika for color.

Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley if desired.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 45 min | 6 servings