Have you ever had one of those days when you crave something warm, cheesy, and comforting? Well, I certainly have, and that’s when I turn to my trusty Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Delight. It’s been a staple in our family dinners for as long as I can remember, and for good reason! This dish was a favorite in my mom’s weekly rotation, especially on those busy weekdays when time was short but we still wanted a delicious meal on the table.
I recall coming home from school to the tantalizing aroma wafting through the house, signaling that dinner was almost ready. My mom would smile as she uncovered the casserole dish, revealing a golden, bubbly layer of cheese on top—a sight that never failed to make my mouth water. This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Delight isn’t just about satisfying hunger; it’s a hug on a plate, bringing warmth and joy to any meal.
What I love about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few steps and basic ingredients like rice, cream of chicken soup, broccoli, and cheddar cheese, you can create a dish that feels like a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. The chicken comes out perfectly tender, the rice is infused with flavor, and the cheese… oh, the cheese! It melts beautifully, enveloping the whole dish in a gooey, savory blanket.
But the best part? It’s so versatile and forgiving. If you don’t have a particular ingredient on hand, there’s almost always something you can substitute, making it a perfect recipe for those pantry-scavenging nights. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this dish is doable, enjoyable, and just plain delicious.
Ready to give it a try? Let’s jump in and make some magic in the kitchen. I promise your family will thank you for it!
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Delight
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Ingredients:
- 1 cup long grain rice
- 1 can cream of chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups broccoli, diced
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Cheddar cheese, for topping
Directions:
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to preheat.
- In a large casserole dish, stir together the long grain rice, cream of chicken, diced broccoli, chicken broth, black pepper, onion powder, and shredded cheddar cheese until everything is evenly mixed.
- Arrange the chicken pieces on top of the mixture in the dish.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and place it in the oven to bake for 50 minutes.
- After 50 minutes, take off the foil, and sprinkle some additional cheddar cheese on top of the chicken. Return it to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly.
- Take it out of the oven, let it cool slightly, and then serve while warm.
Ingredient Tweaks for Your Pantry
If you’re out of broccoli, feel free to use cauliflower or green beans. No cream of chicken? Cream of mushroom or celery works great too. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika. If you’re avoiding dairy, a non-dairy cheese replacement can substitute cheddar.
Best Ways to Store Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Delight Leftover
Keep your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you wish to freeze it, make sure it’s cooled down completely before transferring it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Making the Most of Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Delight: Serving Ideas
Serve this delight with a side of garlic bread or a fresh, crisp green salad to balance the richness. A glass of chilled white wine pairs beautifully with the creamy flavors. Sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for added color and flavor.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Delight
For best results, ensure the rice is evenly distributed within the casserole dish to promote even cooking. You can also marinate the chicken in a bit of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for an hour before cooking if you have the time, enhancing the flavor profile.
Seasonal Twists for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Delight
In the summer, add fresh zucchini or squash for a lighter dish. During the fall, incorporate roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes to add warmth and depth. Winter months can see the addition of hearty root vegetables, while spring brings the opportunity to toss in fresh asparagus or peas.
FAQs:
Can I use brown rice instead of long grain rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for long grain rice. However, keep in mind that brown rice typically requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. You might need to adjust the cooking time and add some additional chicken broth to ensure the rice cooks through properly.
What kind of chicken should I use for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this recipe. They cook evenly and absorb the flavors well. If you prefer bone-in chicken, you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, take it out of the fridge, allow it to come to room temperature, and then proceed with the baking instructions.
What can I serve with Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Delight?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some crusty bread. You can also serve it alongside grilled vegetables for a more substantial meal. A glass of white wine complements the cheesy and savory flavors beautifully.
Can I add other cheeses to this recipe?
Yes, feel free to mix in different types of cheese for a richer flavor. Mozzarella, parmesan, or a sharp cheddar can enhance the dish’s taste. Experiment with your favorite cheeses to find the combination that you love the most.
How do I know when the dish is fully cooked?
The dish is ready when the rice is tender, the chicken is cooked through, and the cheese topping is melted and bubbly. You can check the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches at least 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Delight
Equipment
- casserole dish
Ingredients
- 1 cup long grain rice
- 1 can cream of chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups broccoli diced
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- to taste Cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
For the Casserole:
- In a large casserole dish, combine the rice, cream of chicken, diced broccoli, chicken broth, black pepper, onion powder, and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring well to mix all ingredients thoroughly.
- Arrange the chicken pieces evenly over the combined mixture in the dish.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 50 minutes.
- After baking for 50 minutes, take off the foil and sprinkle additional cheddar cheese on top. Return to the oven uncovered and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Serve the dish warm and relish this cheesy comfort food!
