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The aroma of this classic broccoli chicken casserole fills the kitchen with warmth and comfort. The combination of tender rice, perfectly cooked chicken, and fresh broccoli creates a satisfying one-dish meal that embodies home cooking at its finest.
This hearty casserole brings together simple ingredients to create a memorable family meal that tastes of tradition and care.
Essential Ingredients
- Long grain white rice - provides the perfect texture and base
- Fresh broccoli crowns - maintains better structure than frozen
- Unsalted butter - creates rich flavor foundation
- Sharp cheddar cheese - freshly grated for best melting
- Buttery crackers - essential for the crispy topping
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Preparation Steps
Initial Preparation
Sear chicken until golden brown
Prepare rice using seasoned broth
Lightly steam broccoli florets
Assembly Process
Combine sauce with hot rice
Add chicken and broccoli carefully
Layer cheese on top
Finishing Touches
Prepare cracker topping
Add melted butter to crumbs
Distribute topping evenly
The versatility of this casserole allows for creative additions. Fresh vegetables can enhance both nutrition and flavor while maintaining the comfort food appeal.
Make-Ahead Methods
This casserole excels as a prepared-ahead meal. Assemble components separately and combine before baking. Store topping apart until final preparation.
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Storage Instructions
Portion and refrigerate leftovers promptly. Consume within three days or freeze up to one month. Reheat in oven for optimal texture.
Troubleshooting
Adjust sauce consistency with warm broth. For undercooked rice, add hot liquid and continue baking covered.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole consistently wins over selective eaters. The creamy sauce perfectly masks additional vegetables while maintaining the classic comfort food appeal.
Variations
Consider prepared rotisserie chicken
Experiment with cheese combinations
Incorporate cured meats for variety
This reliable casserole consistently receives praise at gatherings and provides satisfying family meals. The combination of familiar ingredients creates a timeless dish that appeals to all ages.
Cheesy Chicken Bake
A warm and hearty dish blending chicken, rice, and broccoli covered with gooey cheese and a golden cracker topping.
Ingredients
→ Main Ingredients
→ Sauce Base
→ Seasonings
→ Topping
Steps
Set your oven to 350°F. Chop chicken into small pieces. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
In some melted butter, cook the seasoned chicken until it’s golden brown, which should take about 5 minutes. Set the chicken to the side.
Bring rice, broth, and a little cooking oil to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover it up, and cook for 6 minutes. Next, toss in the broccoli and continue cooking for another 9 minutes.
Stir together the cooked rice and broccoli, chicken, condensed soup, milk, sour cream, seasonings, and half the shredded cheddar cheese.
Move everything into a 9x13 pan. Sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top. Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
Stir the crushed crackers with the melted butter. Spread this mixture over the dish, then bake again without a cover for another 10 minutes.
Notes
- Can be prepared up to 48 hours in advance
- Freezes well
- Shred your cheese fresh for better flavor
Required Tools
- 9x13 baking dish
- Measuring tools like spoons and cups
- A big cooking pot
Allergy Information
Check each ingredient for potential allergens and consult a healthcare professional if needed.
- Includes dairy (cheese, sour cream, milk)
- Contains gluten (crackers)
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
These details are provided for informational purposes and aren't a substitute for medical advice.
- Calories: 511
- Fats: ~
- Carbohydrates: ~
- Proteins: ~