Chicken Broccoli & Rice Bake
Serves 6 servings
Prep: 15 minutes • Cook: 25-30 minutes
GFHPFRMP
Tender rotisserie chicken, brown rice, and broccoli baked together in a light, creamy cheese sauce. This easy comfort-food casserole uses Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a satisfying, protein-packed dinner that's perfect for busy evenings and leftovers.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked rotisserie or smoked chicken, chopped or shredded
- 3 cups cooked brown rice
- 3 cups broccoli florets, lightly steamed
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
- In a large bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
- Stir in the cooked chicken, brown rice, steamed broccoli, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese over the top.
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake another 5 to 10 minutes, until the casserole is hot throughout, reaches 165°F in the center, and the cheese is melted.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes & Tips
- Rotisserie chicken makes this recipe quick, but leftover smoked chicken adds a delicious smoky flavor.
- Use leftover brown rice or microwave-ready rice to save time.
- Frozen broccoli works great. Thaw and drain it before adding to prevent a watery casserole.
- For a creamier casserole, add another 1/4 cup chicken broth before baking.
- Sharp cheddar provides plenty of flavor without needing a heavy cheese sauce.
- For a little heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days, counting from when the chicken and rice were originally cooked.
- Reheat leftovers until hot throughout, reaching 165°F.
Nutrition:
375 cal • 34g protein • 14g fat • 29g carbs