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Friday Lunch Recipes

(Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli & Rice Casserole) On the first Friday of every month, our very own Chandra T volunteers her time to prepare meals for the Freeport Community Services "First Friday Free Lunch Program."  Her meals are so delicious, that we often receive requests for her recipes.  Please enjoy!

Friday Lunch Recipes

On the first Friday of every month, our very own Chandra T volunteers her time to prepare meals for the Freeport Community Services “First Friday Free Lunch Program.”  Her meals are so delicious, that we often receive requests for her recipes.  Please enjoy!

CHEESY CHICKEN, BROCCOLI, & RICE CASSEROLE

Brrrr! It’s getting cold out and that means it’s time to put away the salad spinner and start thinking about soups and heartier fare. This Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food; flavorful, family-friendly, and perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.

Chicken Broccoli & Rice Casserole

Ingredients 

  • 2 large chicken breasts,(or thighs, or tenderloins, just make sure you remove the skin), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 cups broccoli florets (frozen or fresh)
  • 2 cups cooked rice (use up those leftovers)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of broccoli soup
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cheddar cheese soup
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
  • 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Method

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sauté until chicken is cooked through and lightly golden (about 5–7 minutes).
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli florets, sautéed chicken, cream of mushroom soup, cream of broccoli soup, cheddar cheese soup, and chicken broth. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
  • Pour mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
  • Make Cracker Topping :In a small bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter, then spread this mixture evenly over the casserole.
  • Bake uncovered on 350°F for 30–35 minutes, until bubbly and the topping is golden brown.

Notes

  • A pinch of red pepper flakes can be added for heat
  • A splash of milk can be added if you want a creamier texture
  • Substitute broccoli with mixed vegetables or cauliflower if you’d prefer 
  • Any cream of something soup is fine, don’t worry about having all the varieties