Do you ever find yourself staring into the fridge at the end of a busy day, wondering how to whip up a hearty meal in record time? We’ve all been there. Thankfully, there’s a solution: Knorr Broccoli Rice Chicken Casserole. This recipe is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavors that will make everyone at the table ask for seconds. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into how you can create this one-dish wonder in just 30 minutes.
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Why Knorr Broccoli Rice Chicken Casserole is a Perfect Meal
Versatile and Family-Friendly
This casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. It’s a dish that appeals to kids and adults alike, with creamy cheese, tender chicken, and the subtle crunch of broccoli. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a last-minute gathering, this recipe fits the bill.
Quick, Affordable, and Nutritious
Life is busy, but that doesn’t mean you need to compromise on taste or nutrition. Using Knorr Rice Sides as the base, this casserole combines convenience with affordability. Plus, with wholesome ingredients like broccoli and chicken, it delivers a balanced meal that’s good for you and your family.
Ingredients Needed for Knorr Broccoli Rice Chicken Casserole
To make this dish, you’ll need a handful of ingredients you likely already have in your pantry or fridge. Here’s a detailed list:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Knorr Rice Sides – Broccoli & Cheese | 1 package |
| Cooked chicken (shredded or diced) | 2 cups |
| Broccoli (chopped) | 1 cup (fresh or frozen) |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 ½ cups |
| Cream of chicken soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) |
| Milk | ½ cup |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
| Optional: Garlic powder, salt, pepper | To taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Knorr Broccoli Rice Chicken Casserole
Preparation (5 Minutes)
Start by setting the stage for success:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Coat a 9×13-inch casserole dish with a small amount of grease to prevent sticking.
Cooking the Rice (10 Minutes)
The key to this dish is the flavorful Knorr Broccoli Rice:
- Prepare the Knorr Broccoli & Cheese Rice Sides according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves simmering the rice with butter and water for about 7 minutes.
- As the rice cooks, steam your broccoli if it’s fresh. If using frozen broccoli, just thaw and drain it.
Combining Ingredients (5 Minutes)
Now it’s time to bring everything together:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, chopped broccoli, cream of chicken soup, milk, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste, mixing until evenly combined.
Baking (10 Minutes)
This is where the magic happens:
- Transfer the mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top for a gooey, golden finish.
- Bake uncovered for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips for the Perfect Casserole
Ingredient Substitutions
- Rotisserie Chicken: Save even more time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: Swap out cream of chicken for cream of mushroom if you prefer a different flavor.
Add Extra Flavor
- Breadcrumb Topping: Sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of melted butter over the cheese layer for added crunch.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mix for a hint of heat.
Serving and Storing Your Casserole
How to Serve
This casserole is a meal in itself, but you can elevate your dinner by serving it with these sides:
- A fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette.
- Warm garlic bread or dinner rolls.
- Steamed vegetables for extra nutrients.
Garnish the casserole with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an elegant touch.
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: This dish freezes beautifully. Divide it into portions, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works just fine. Simply thaw it and drain any excess moisture before mixing it in.
What can I use instead of Knorr Broccoli Rice Sides?
If you don’t have Knorr Rice Sides, you can substitute with another flavored rice mix, like a cheddar or broccoli variety. However, Knorr’s blend provides the best taste and texture for this dish.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! The casserole should be assembled as directed, covered tightly, and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature and add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time.
Is Knorr Broccoli Rice Chicken Casserole gluten-free?
While the original recipe isn’t gluten-free, you can make substitutions to accommodate dietary needs. Use a gluten-free rice mix and cream of chicken soup.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Replace the chicken with a plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu, and use a cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken.
Conclusion
With its creamy texture, rich flavors, and quick preparation time, Knorr Broccoli Rice Chicken Casserole is destined to become a staple in your dinner rotation. It’s the kind of meal that brings comfort and convenience to your table without sacrificing quality.
Why not give it a try tonight? Once you taste the cheesy, savory goodness of this dish, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. Happy cooking!