Scrumptious Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Introduction
Welcome to our recipe for Scrumptious Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Packed with protein, veggies, and delicious flavors, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Follow our step-by-step instructions to create this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients
For the casserole:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced carrots
– 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the topping:
– 1 cup crushed cornflakes
– 1/4 cup melted butter
Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, broccoli florets, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onion, diced bell pepper, and diced carrots.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and vegetable mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
6. In a small bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes and melted butter until well coated.
7. Sprinkle the cornflake mixture over the casserole.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is heated through and the top is golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Variations
1. For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.
2. Add cooked bacon or ham for an extra savory twist.
3. Swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella or Swiss cheese for a different flavor profile.
Tips
– Cook the rice and chicken in advance to save time when assembling the casserole.
– Feel free to use fresh or frozen broccoli florets, depending on what you have available.
– Customize the seasonings to your preference by adding herbs like parsley or basil.
Conclusion
Scrumptious Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that the whole family will love. With its combination of tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and flavorful rice, this casserole is a complete meal on its own. The creamy sauce and crispy cornflake topping add an extra layer of deliciousness. Try out this recipe for your next gathering or weeknight dinner.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just make sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it is heated through.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just divide the leftovers into individual portions and store them in airtight containers or freezer bags. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I use other vegetables in this casserole?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly if using vegetables that require longer or shorter cooking times.
