When it comes to comfort food that marries simplicity with richness, my Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Rice Casserole stands out as a stellar example. This delectable dish brings together fluffy long-grain rice, succulent seasoned chicken, and vibrant steamed broccoli, all enveloped in a savory, homemade cheese sauce that adds a luscious touch. Topped with freshly grated cheese and baked to golden perfection, this casserole is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that tantalizes the taste buds and warms the soul.
Why This Recipe?
All-In-One Delight: This casserole is a complete meal, offering a harmonious blend of protein, veggies, and carbs in every bite.
Simple Ingredients, Extraordinary Flavor: The magic lies in the simplicity of the ingredients – instant brown rice, lean chicken breasts, and broccoli florets. Yet, the combination creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving for more.
Freezer-Friendly Flexibility: Prepare this casserole in advance, freeze it, and enjoy a delicious homemade meal whenever you desire.
Adaptable to Your Tastes: While the recipe is perfection as it is, feel free to add your twist with additional spices or your favorite cheese variety.
Ingredients Needed:
Instant Brown Rice: The foundation of our casserole, offering a nutty flavor and a quicker cooking time compared to regular rice.
Chicken Breasts: Lean and tender, these chicken breasts provide the perfect protein balance to the dish.
Broccoli Florets: A nutrient-packed powerhouse, broccoli not only adds color but also brings in fiber and essential vitamins.
Spices: A simple yet effective blend of salt, pepper, and garlic powder elevates the overall seasoning of the casserole.
All-Purpose Flour + Milk + Greek Yogurt: Say goodbye to canned soups; our creamy sauce is crafted from a blend of flour, milk, and Greek yogurt for a healthier, tastier alternative.
Dijon Mustard: Infusing a delightful tanginess that complements the cheesy goodness.
Cheddar Cheese: The star of our show – sharp cheddar adds boldness and a perfect pairing with the broccoli.
How To Make: Step by Step
Pre-Cook the Broccoli and Rice: Streamline your cooking process by preparing these two essentials simultaneously.
Sauté the Chicken: Achieve that perfect sear on the chicken, then set it aside to mingle with the other ingredients later.
Make the Sauce: Witness the alchemy of Greek yogurt and cheddar cheese creating a rich and creamy sauce, transforming this casserole into a masterpiece.
Combine with Care: Stir all components together with a generous hand, ensuring every element is coated in the velvety sauce.
Bake to Perfection: A sprinkle of cheese on top, and into the oven at 375 degrees F for 25 minutes – the final act in the creation of this culinary symphony.
Preserving info:
To Store: Keep any leftovers in the refrigerator, sealed in an airtight container, for up to 4 days.
To Reheat: Warm the delicious remnants in a baking dish in the oven at 350 degrees F.
To Freeze: Should you wish to save some for later, freeze the casserole in a suitable container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Perfect Companions:
Pair your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole with carrots, cauliflower, or sweet potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I cook the chicken before adding it?
Nope! The chicken goes in raw and cooks perfectly during the casserole’s time in the oven.
Do I precook the rice?
Not at all! Stir in the uncooked instant rice in step 3 for the perfect texture.
Can I use regular long-grain rice instead of instant rice?
Unfortunately, this recipe was only tested with instant rice.
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Just sauté it until tender as opposed to the given time frame for frozen broccoli.
Recipe Tips and Tricks:
Mind Your Rice: Instant brown rice adds a nutty flavor and ensures the ideal texture for our casserole.
Speed It Up with Precooked Chicken: Opt for precooked chicken if you’re short on time, but nothing beats the flavor of fresh, sautéed chicken.
Use Broth, Not Water: Elevate the flavors by using chicken stock instead of water for cooking the rice.
Add a Crispy Topping: For an extra layer of texture, consider adding a crispy topping before baking.
Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
6
servings30
minutes25
minutes337
kcal55
minutesQuick and Easy Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole.
Ingredients
1 3/4 cups low-sodium chicken stock
2 cups instant brown rice (Note: If using white or non-instant rice, adjust cooking time and liquid accordingly)
1 pound broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, chopped into bite-size pieces
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
3/4 teaspoon garlic powder, divided
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk, divided
3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1/3 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
1 1/2 cups reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese, divided (about 6 ounces)
Directions
- Preheat and Grease: Set your oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly grease a deep 9-inch-square baking dish or a 3-quart casserole dish.
- Cook the Rice and Broccoli: Bring the chicken stock to a boil, add the instant brown rice, and let it return to a boil. Place broccoli on top of the rice without stirring. Cover, reduce heat to low, and let it cook for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and allow it to sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Ensure most of the rice liquid is absorbed.
- Sauté the Chicken: In a Dutch oven or large deep pot, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Sauté until cooked through, around 4 to 6 minutes. Transfer chicken to a plate, wiping the pot clean.
- Prepare the Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Whisk together flour and 1/2 cup milk in a small bowl or large measuring cup. Pour the mixture into the pot, add the remaining 1 1/2 cups milk, and stir constantly until thickened (7 to 10 minutes). Remove from heat and whisk in Dijon, remaining salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir in Greek yogurt and 1 cup of shredded cheese until smooth.
- Combine and Bake: Gently mix the rice and broccoli mixture with the reserved chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated with the cheese sauce. Spoon the mixture into the prepared dish and top with the remaining 1/2 cup cheese. Bake for 25 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 337kcal
- Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 57mg
- Potassium: 767mg
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 33g
- Calcium: 283mg
- Iron: 3mg
