### **Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole**
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#### **Introduction**
Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole is a comforting, one-dish meal that combines the richness of creamy cheese, tender chicken, and the earthy goodness of broccoli. With its flavorful blend of ingredients, this casserole is a family favorite that balances both nutrition and indulgence. Whether served as a weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, it offers an easy, delicious way to pack in vegetables while satisfying cravings for creamy, cheesy comfort food.
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#### **Origin**
Casseroles are a popular dish in American cooking, particularly in the Midwest and South, where they have become a mainstay for home cooks seeking simple, filling meals that can be prepared in one pan. Broccoli, rice, and chicken casseroles are a variation of the classic American casserole, often incorporating ingredients like cheese, cream soups, and breadcrumbs. The exact origin of the broccoli rice chicken casserole is difficult to pinpoint, but it likely evolved in the mid-20th century alongside the rise of convenience foods such as canned cream soups and pre-packaged rice mixes. Over time, home cooks began to customize the dish to suit personal tastes, often adding spices, herbs, or a variety of cheeses.
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#### **Cultural Significance**
Casseroles hold a unique place in American culture as they represent home-cooked comfort and practicality. They became especially popular during the mid-1900s, when families sought affordable and easy-to-prepare meals. Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole has become synonymous with family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday dinners. This dish is appreciated for its simplicity, affordability, and the ability to feed a crowd, all while providing a balanced meal that combines protein, vegetables, and carbs. It’s a dish that invokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia and continues to be a staple in many households across the U.S.
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#### **Ingredients & Quantity**
– **For the Casserole:**
– 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
– 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or a blend)
– 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed or cooked)
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for a vegetarian version)
– 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
– 1/2 cup milk (whole, 2%, or dairy-free alternative)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– **For the Topping (Optional):**
– 1/2 cup crushed crackers (Ritz or plain, or panko breadcrumbs)
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
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#### **Optional Additions**
1. **Spices**: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, paprika, or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
2. **Vegetables**: Carrots, bell peppers, or peas can be added to the casserole for more color and nutrition.
3. **Cheese Variations**: Mix in different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Parmesan for added depth of flavor.
4. **Herbs**: Fresh or dried thyme, parsley, or basil can be sprinkled over the casserole for a more aromatic flavor.
5. **Crunchy Topping**: Use fried onions, crushed tortilla chips, or French-fried onions for a crunchy topping instead of crackers or breadcrumbs.
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#### **Tips for Success**
1. **Pre-cook Ingredients**: Make sure the chicken, rice, and broccoli are fully cooked before assembling the casserole. This ensures even cooking and helps the casserole come together more quickly.
2. **Season Well**: Taste the mixture before baking and adjust seasoning to your liking. Casseroles benefit from a bit of extra seasoning since they often involve bland base ingredients like rice and chicken.
3. **Use Rotisserie Chicken**: For a faster and more flavorful option, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds more depth of flavor to the casserole.
4. **Customize the Cheese**: Use a blend of cheeses for more flavor. Sharp cheddar adds a nice tang, while mozzarella provides gooey stretchiness.
5. **Bake Until Bubbling**: Ensure the casserole is fully heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly before serving. This usually takes around 30-35 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
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#### **Instructions**
1. **Prepare the Ingredients**:
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Cook the rice and steam the broccoli (either in the microwave or by boiling it until tender).
– Shred or cube the cooked chicken.
2. **Mix the Casserole**:
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, rice, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and garlic and onion powder. Mix until all ingredients are evenly coated. Stir in 3/4 cup of the shredded cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. **Assemble the Casserole**:
– Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.
4. **Add Toppings** (Optional):
– If using a crunchy topping, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle them over the casserole. Top with the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheese.
5. **Bake the Casserole**:
– Bake the casserole for 30-35 minutes, or until it’s bubbling around the edges and the cheese is melted and golden brown on top.
6. **Serve**:
– Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy it with a side salad, cornbread, or roasted vegetables.
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#### **Description**
Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. The creamy base made from soup and sour cream binds together the tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant broccoli, while the cheese provides a rich, savory flavor that coats every bite. The optional crunchy topping adds a satisfying texture contrast to the soft and creamy casserole. This dish is simple to make, hearty, and a true crowd-pleaser, whether for a family dinner or a potluck gathering.
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#### **Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)**
– **Calories**: 350-400 calories
– **Protein**: 25g
– **Carbohydrates**: 30g
– **Fat**: 18g
– **Saturated Fat**: 9g
– **Fiber**: 2-3g
– **Sodium**: 600-750mg
– **Cholesterol**: 50-60mg
*Note: Nutritional values are approximate and will vary based on exact ingredients used, serving sizes, and optional additions.*
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#### **Conclusion**
Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole is a heartwarming dish that provides the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy indulgence and nutritious vegetables and protein. It’s versatile enough to be customized to your liking and easy enough for even beginner cooks to prepare. Whether you are looking for a family-friendly dinner or something to serve at a gathering, this casserole is guaranteed to satisfy.
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#### **Recommendation**
For a healthier version, consider using brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber. You can also swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt to cut back on calories while maintaining creaminess. Additionally, you can reduce the amount of cheese or use a lighter cheese blend for a lower-fat option. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, substitute cauliflower rice for the regular rice.
To make this dish more protein-packed, you can add extra chicken or even include some beans like black beans or kidney beans. Serve it with a light side salad or steamed vegetables to add even more nutrients.
Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole is a wonderful example of how comfort food can be made more nutritious while still being indulgent and satisfying. Whether as a regular part of your dinner rotation or a special treat, it’s a dish that both kids and adults will love.