Description
This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole features tender canned chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy rice combined with a rich cheddar cheese sauce, topped with buttery crispy corn flakes for the perfect contrast of textures. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a hungry family without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 (12.5 oz) can chunk chicken breast, drained
- 2 cups frozen broccoli, thawed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups cooked rice, white or brown rice
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided for mixing and topping
- 2 cups crushed corn flakes
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- to taste salt, pepper, and garlic powder
- optional Toppings, fresh parsley, chives, crispy fried onions, or additional vegetables
Instructions
- **Prepare the base**: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cream of chicken soup and sour cream until smooth and well blended, about 1 minute.
- **Add the cheese**: Mix in 1.5 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving the remaining 0.5 cup for the topping, and stir until the cheese is mostly melted and the mixture is creamy.
- **Fold in proteins and vegetables**: Add the drained chicken and thawed broccoli to the bowl, then fold in the cooked rice gently until all ingredients are evenly distributed, about 2 minutes.
- **Season to taste**: Sprinkle salt, pepper, and garlic powder over the mixture and stir well, adjusting seasonings as needed.
- **Prepare the topping**: In a separate bowl, place 2 cups of corn flakes and crush them into coarse crumbles, then pour the melted butter over them and toss until all the flakes are evenly coated.
- **Preheat and assemble**: Heat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish, and pour the casserole mixture into it, spreading it out evenly.
- **Add topping**: Spread the buttered corn flake mixture evenly over the casserole, then sprinkle the remaining 0.5 cup of cheddar cheese over the corn flakes.
- **Bake**: Place the casserole in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- **Cool and serve**: Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes