Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Casserole
Every family has that one recipe that’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and for my kids, it’s this delightful Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Casserole. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the dinner table with a smile, and it’s no surprise why. This casserole is not only packed with flavor but also offers a comforting combination of textures that makes each bite a delight.
Imagine tender pieces of crumbled chicken mingling with fluffy instant rice, all enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. The addition of thawed broccoli brings a pop of color and a healthy touch, making it a well-rounded meal that parents can feel good about serving. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, this dish is easy to prepare and satisfies even the pickiest of eaters.
The beauty of this casserole lies in its versatility. You can whip it up with leftover chicken or even rotisserie chicken for a quick fix. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies, ensuring your family gets their daily dose of nutrients without even realizing it. Topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs, this dish comes out of the oven bubbling and golden brown, ready to be devoured.
Ingredients:
- 100g cooked, crumbled chicken
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup instant rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) onion soup
- 3/4 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 bag (12-16 oz) frozen broccoli, thawed
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the rice: Bring the chicken broth to a boil, then stir in the instant rice. Cover, remove from heat, and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
- Make the cheese sauce: Melt the butter in a pan. Stir in the cream of chicken soup, onion soup, Velveeta, heavy cream, and milk. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, chicken, broccoli, and cheese sauce until well combined.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. If desired, sprinkle with panko breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.
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