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When it comes to comforting meals, few dishes can rival the warm embrace of a casserole. These one-dish wonders have become a staple in kitchens across the globe, offering a perfect solution for busy families looking to serve up delicious, satisfying meals without the fuss. Among the many variations of casseroles, the Cheesy Broccoli & Chicken Rice Casserole stands out as a delightful blend of flavors that provides both nutrition and comfort. This dish not only satisfies the taste buds but also brings a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of family dinners and cozy gatherings.

Cheesy Broccoli and Chicken Rice Casserole

Discover the delicious world of casseroles with this Cheesy Broccoli & Chicken Rice Casserole, a perfect blend of comfort and nutrition. This easy-to-make dish combines lean chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheeses, all baked to perfection for a satisfying meal. Ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings, it offers a great way to incorporate protein, fiber, and essential vitamins into your diet. Embrace the joy of home-cooked comfort food that brings everyone together!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked

2 cups chicken broth, low-sodium preferred

2 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed and drained)

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

1/2 cup whole milk

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added flavor)

1 tablespoon olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it's ready for baking.

    Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional minute, or until the garlic is aromatic.

      Combine the Base Ingredients: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, uncooked rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, whole milk, the sautéed onion and garlic mixture, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Use a spoon or spatula to stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.

        Incorporate Broccoli and Cheese: Gently fold in the fresh broccoli florets along with half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

          Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish, ensuring it is spread evenly across the bottom.

            Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses generously across the top of the casserole.

              Bake to Perfection: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil to retain moisture, and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.

                Cool and Garnish: Once baked, take the casserole out of the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for color and added flavor.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 min | 1 hr | 6 servings