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In the realm of comfort food, few dishes can compete with a creamy, cheesy chicken and broccoli rice casserole. This dish not only serves as a delightful family meal but also incorporates nutritious ingredients like chicken, broccoli, and rice, making it a well-rounded option. With its velvety texture and rich flavors, the Creamy Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of this recipe, exploring its ingredients, preparation methods, and the comforting benefits of each component.

Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Rice Casserole

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Casserole! Packed with nutritious ingredients like tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheeses, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd. Enjoy its rich flavors and velvety texture, all while nourishing your family with wholesome goodness. Easy to prepare and downright delicious, this casserole is sure to become a favorite at your table.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked white or brown rice

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

2 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup creamy cheddar soup (canned)

1 cup chicken broth

1/2 cup milk

1 teaspoons garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon paprika

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for topping)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Prepare the Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, steam the florets for about 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still vibrant green. If using frozen, make sure they are thawed and drained well.

      Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, broccoli florets, half of the cheddar cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, cheddar soup, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and paprika. Stir until evenly combined.

        Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly.

          Top It Off: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top of the casserole.

            Breadcrumb Topping (Optional): In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil (if using). Sprinkle this mixture over the cheesy layer for extra crunch.

              Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

                Cool & Serve: Let the casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to serve.

                  Enjoy your Creamy Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Casserole as a comforting meal perfect for any day of the week!

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6-8 servings