Budget-Friendly Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Casserole

Are you looking for a delicious,

Budget-Friendly Chicken & Broccoli Cheesy Casserole that the whole family will love? Look no further than the Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Casserole. This dish combines the classic flavors of chicken, broccoli, and cheese into a comforting and satisfying casserole. Not only is it easy to make, but it also offers a nutritious option for those busy weeknight dinners.

Why Choose Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Casserole?

This casserole is a go-to dish for many reasons. It’s:

• Cost-Effective: You can prepare this dish for under $15, making it an economical choice for families.
• Nutritious: Packed with broccoli, this casserole offers a good dose of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and dietary fiber.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Use fresh, frozen, or leftover ingredients to suit your taste and budget

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this budget-friendly casserole:

• 1 lb cooked boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced: You can also use canned chicken or leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• 1 (10.5 oz) can low-sodium cream of chicken soup: This adds creaminess and flavor.
• 3 cups cooked long grain white rice: Instant rice can be used for a quicker prep time.
• 1 (12.6 oz) bag frozen baby broccoli florets: Thaw and cut into bite-size pieces.
• 1¼ cups light sour cream: Adds richness to the casserole.
• 1 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese: Feel free to substitute with Cheddar or Pepper Jack for a spicier kick.
• 1½ tablespoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare: The baking dish by coating it with cooking spray. Use a 9×13-inch dish for best results
3. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, cream of chicken soup, cooked rice, broccoli florets, sour cream, ½ cup of shredded cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden and the broccoli is tender.
6. Serve: Serve hot and enjoy this hearty, delicious meal with your family!

Tips for Success

• Purchase in bulk: Buying ingredients such as rice, cheese, and spices in larger quantities can save you money over time.
• Use Leftovers: Leftover cooked chicken works perfectly in this casserole.
• Frozen Vegetables: Opt for frozen broccoli to save time and money without compromising nutrition.

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as mushrooms, carrots, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
• Change the Cheese: Try using Monterey Jack or a blend of your favorite cheeses for different flavor profiles.
• Make It Healthier: Use brown rice and low-fat cheese for a healthier version.

Storage

• Store: leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days.
• Freeze: This casserole can be frozen for up to three months. Reheat in the microwave or bake at 350°F, covered for 20 minutes, then uncovered for 5 minutes.

Why Chicken & Broccoli Casserole?

1. Affordable Ingredients: This casserole uses common, cost-effective ingredients like chicken breasts, broccoli, and cheese, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to save money on groceries. These staples are not only budget-friendly but also nutritious.
2. Versatile and Easy: The beauty of this casserole lies in its versatility. You can customize it with whatever vegetables you have on hand or swap out the cheese for different varieties based on your preference. It’s a great way to use up leftovers or whatever is in your fridge.
3. Nutritional Value: Chicken provides lean protein, while broccoli adds essential vitamins and minerals. The addition of cheese and a creamy sauce ensures the dish is both satisfying and indulgent, offering a balanced meal in every bite.

Conclusion

The Budget-Friendly Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Casserole is the perfect solution for those looking to enjoy a tasty, comforting meal without breaking the bank. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and sure to become a family favorite. So next time you’re planning dinner, consider this delicious casserole as a go-to option. Happy cooking!