The Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole is the epitome of comfort food, bringing together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and fluffy rice in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this dish is easy to prepare and sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a wholesome, satisfying meal that will quickly become a household favorite.
What is Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole?
The Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole is a deliciously creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish featuring cooked chicken, fresh broccoli, and rice. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special family gatherings.
Other Pioneer Woman Recipes
- Hillbilly Hamburger Casserole
- Cowboy Caviar Recipe Pioneer Woman
- Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole
Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Comfort Food at Its Best: This casserole combines all the comforting flavors you crave in one dish.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
- Versatile: You can easily customize the recipe with different vegetables or cheese varieties.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients Needed for Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Cooking spray
Instructions: How to Make Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Cook the rice according to the package instructions and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, rice, and broccoli florets.
- Add the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and chopped onion to the bowl. Mix well.
- Season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the chicken broth and mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
What Goes Well With Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, fresh salad provides a nice contrast to the rich casserole.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra creamy sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add even more nutrition to your meal with a side of roasted veggies.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce pairs wonderfully with the creamy casserole.
- Apple Cider: A warm, spiced cider complements the flavors beautifully.
- Steamed Asparagus: Light and healthy, it balances the richness of the dish.
Essential Tips for Perfecting Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole
- Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets retain a better texture than frozen ones.
- Cook Chicken Ahead: Save time by using leftover or rotisserie chicken.
- Opt for Low-Sodium Broth: Control the saltiness by using low-sodium chicken broth.
- Don’t Overcook the Rice: Slightly undercooked rice will absorb the casserole’s flavors better.
- Shred Your Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains additives that prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving to let it set.
- Customize the Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning to suit your family’s taste preferences.
Variations of Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with tofu or a variety of mushrooms.
- Spicy Twist: Add a diced jalapeno or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Different Cheese: Swap out the cheddar for Swiss, Monterey Jack, or Gruyere.
- Add Bacon: Sprinkle cooked bacon bits on top for extra flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cream soup and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
- Italian Style: Add some marinara sauce and Italian seasoning for an Italian twist.
Storing Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole: Best Practices
- Cool Completely: Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
- Airtight Containers: Use airtight containers to keep it fresh.
- Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freeze for Longer Storage: For extended storage, freeze the casserole in portions.
Reheating Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole: Best Practices
- Microwave: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.
- Oven: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- Add Moisture: Cover with foil and add a splash of broth if it looks dry.
- Avoid Overheating: Reheat just until warmed through to avoid drying it out.
How can I make Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole healthier?
To make Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole healthier, consider these modifications:
- Use Brown Rice: Substitute white rice with brown rice for added fiber and nutrients.
- Opt for Greek Yogurt: Replace sour cream with plain Greek yogurt to reduce fat and increase protein.
- Low-Fat Cheese: Use low-fat or reduced-fat cheese to lower the overall fat content.
- Less Mayonnaise: Cut back on the amount of mayonnaise or use a light version.
- Fresh Broccoli: Use fresh broccoli for better texture and nutritional value.
- Homemade Soup Substitute: Make a homemade cream sauce instead of using canned cream of chicken soup to reduce sodium and preservatives.
- Add More Veggies: Incorporate additional vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or spinach for extra vitamins and minerals.
Nutrition Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 700mg
FAQs
How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too dry?
To prevent the casserole from becoming too dry, ensure you don’t overcook the rice and use enough creamy ingredients like sour cream and mayonnaise. Adding a splash of chicken broth before baking can also help maintain moisture. Covering the casserole with foil while baking and removing it during the last few minutes can help achieve a perfect balance of creamy and golden-brown textures.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this casserole ahead of time. Assemble the casserole as instructed, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to ensure it’s heated through.
Why chicken, broccoli, and brown rice?
Chicken, broccoli, and brown rice make a nutritious and balanced combination. Chicken provides lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Broccoli offers a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, supporting overall health and immune function. Brown rice adds complex carbohydrates, supplying sustained energy and fiber for digestive health. Together, these ingredients create a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s both delicious and beneficial for your body.
Is chicken, rice, and broccoli good for a cut?
Yes, chicken, rice, and broccoli are excellent for a cutting phase. Chicken is a lean source of protein, which helps preserve muscle mass while promoting fat loss. Broccoli is low in calories but high in fiber, helping you feel full and satisfied. Brown rice provides complex carbohydrates for energy, ensuring you have the stamina for workouts while maintaining a calorie deficit. This combination supports muscle retention and fat loss, making it ideal for cutting.
Is it better to use fresh or frozen broccoli in a casserole?
Both fresh and frozen broccoli can be used in a casserole, but fresh broccoli often provides a better texture. Fresh broccoli retains a slight crunch after baking, while frozen broccoli can become softer and more watery. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the casserole to avoid excess moisture.
What does chicken, rice, and broccoli do for you?
Eating chicken, rice, and broccoli offers numerous health benefits. Chicken provides essential amino acids for muscle repair and growth. Broccoli is packed with vitamins C and K, folate, and fiber, contributing to immune health, bone strength, and digestive health. Brown rice supplies complex carbohydrates and fiber, ensuring steady energy levels and promoting heart health. This combination supports overall wellness, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer a homemade substitute, you can make a quick cream sauce by combining butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan, whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to make a roux, then slowly add 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of milk, stirring constantly until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste and use this in place of the canned soup.
Final Words
The Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole is a beloved classic for good reason. Its creamy, cheesy goodness, combined with the wholesome ingredients, makes it a family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this casserole is sure to delight you. Enjoy the process of making this dish, and savor every comforting bite!
Other Yummy Recipes:
- Pioneer Woman Chicken Enchilada Casserole
- Pioneer Woman Cowboy Breakfast Casserole
- Pioneer Woman Green Bean Casserole With Mushrooms
- Pioneer Woman Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
The Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole is a deliciously creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish featuring cooked chicken, fresh broccoli, and rice. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Cook the rice according to the package instructions and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, rice, and broccoli florets.
- Add the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and chopped onion to the bowl. Mix well.
- Season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the chicken broth and mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
