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Casseroles have long been a staple in homes around the world, offering a delightful combination of convenience and comfort. They are the ultimate one-dish meals that bring families together at the dinner table, providing nourishment and warmth. Among the myriad of casserole options, the Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bliss Casserole stands out as a particularly enticing choice. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also offers a nutritious balance of ingredients, making it an ideal option for family dinners, potlucks, or those busy weeknights when time is of the essence.

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Rice Casserole

Discover the ultimate family comfort food with the Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bliss Casserole. This satisfying one-dish meal perfectly balances flavors and textures, featuring tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheese, all topped with a crispy panko crust. It's not just delicious but also nutritious, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or potlucks. Dive into our step-by-step guide to create this heartwarming casserole that everyone will love!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces

3 cups broccoli florets (you can use fresh or frozen)

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus more for topping

1 cup cream of chicken soup (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup sour cream

1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika for a deeper flavor

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup panko breadcrumbs for crunch

2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing and breadcrumb mixture

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional, but recommended for color)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.

    Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the diced chicken and cook for approximately 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. When done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

      Blanch the Broccoli: If you're using fresh broccoli, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and are just slightly tender. Drain them immediately and plunge into an ice bath to halt the cooking process. If you're using frozen broccoli, simply thaw it and drain off any excess moisture.

        Combine the Casserole Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed chicken, blanched broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Gently fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing well to ensure everything is evenly coated and flavored to taste with additional salt and pepper if needed.

          Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly to promote even baking.

            Prepare the Crunchy Topping: In a separate small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the remaining olive oil and reserved cheddar cheese. Stir until the breadcrumbs are uniformly coated with oil.

              Top & Bake: Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.

                Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired for a pop of color. Serve hot and savor the flavors of your creamy chicken and broccoli casserole!

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Servings: 6

                    Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, consider serving the casserole directly from the dish, or scoop individual portions onto plates and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and an additional sprinkle of cheese for extra color.