Description

This creamy chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole is the ultimate comfort food, made with tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, crisp broccoli, and a cheesy homemade sauce. It's hearty, wholesome, and easy to prepare, ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)

2 cups broccoli florets (steamed or lightly blanched)

2 tablespoons butter

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 cup milk (or unsweetened non-dairy milk)

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft.
Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk until the sauce is smooth.
Add Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and let it melt completely.
In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, rice, broccoli, and the cheese sauce. Mix well until evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese and Parmesan on top.
Bake for 20–25 minutes until the top is golden and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Let cool slightly before serving warm.

Notes

Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful option.

To make it vegetarian, omit the chicken and add extra veggies like mushrooms or carrots.

Add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese for extra creaminess.

Top with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking for a crunchy topping.

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheat with a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
Calories: 420
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0.3g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 85mg