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Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

easy cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole - featured image
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A quick and comforting casserole combining tender chicken, broccoli, rice, and a creamy cheesy sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (leftover rotisserie chicken works well)
  • 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets, lightly steamed or thawed
  • 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup whole milk or 2%
  • ½ cup finely chopped yellow or white onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon smoked paprika or cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Add ½ cup chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 30 seconds without browning.
  4. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons flour over onions and garlic, stirring constantly for 1 minute to form a roux.
  5. Slowly whisk in 1 cup milk, stirring continuously until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Cut 4 ounces softened cream cheese into chunks and stir into sauce until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional smoked paprika or cayenne.
  7. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, cooked rice, and steamed or thawed broccoli. Pour creamy cheese sauce over and stir gently to coat.
  8. Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, reserving ½ cup for topping.
  9. Spread mixture evenly into prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle remaining ½ cup cheese on top.
  10. Bake for 25-30 minutes until top is golden and bubbly. Cover loosely with foil if cheese browns too quickly.
  11. Let casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

If rice feels dry, add a splash of milk when mixing to keep casserole moist. Avoid overcooking broccoli to maintain texture. Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting. For gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken casserole, broccoli casserole, cheesy casserole, easy dinner, weeknight meal, comfort food, chicken broccoli rice

Find it online: https://emmayum.com/easy-cheesy-chicken-broccoli-rice-casserole-recipe-for-busy-weeknights/