The Crunchy Topping:

¾ cup panko breadcrumbs

2 tbsp melted butter

¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional)

💡 Pro Tip: If avoiding Velveeta, use 2 cups shredded cheddar + 2 tbsp cream cheese for extra creaminess.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2. Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine:

Cooked rice

Shredded chicken

Broccoli

In a saucepan over low heat, warm soups, Velveeta (or cheese), and milk until smooth. Stir in seasonings.

Pour cheese sauce over chicken mixture; stir until fully coated.

3. Assemble

Spread mixture into baking dish.

In a small bowl, mix panko + melted butter + Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over top.

4. Bake Until Golden

Bake uncovered 30–35 minutes, until bubbly and topping is golden brown.

Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

✨ For extra broccoli flavor: Blanch fresh broccoli 2 mins before adding to retain color and crunch.

Serving Suggestions & Pro Tips

Pair with: Simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted carrots

Make ahead: Assemble unbaked; refrigerate up to 24 hours. Add 10 mins to bake time.

Freeze for later: Portion and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat covered at 350°F.

Boost flavor: Add a dash of hot sauce, Dijon mustard, or smoked paprika to the sauce

Gluten-free? Use GF cream soups and GF panko

FAQs: Your Questions, Answered

Q: Can I use raw chicken?

A: Not recommended—pre-cooked ensures tenderness and even texture.

Q: What if I don’t have cream of onion soup?

A: Use all cream of chicken, or sub with cream of mushroom or celery.

Q: Can I skip the breadcrumbs?

A: Yes—but you’ll miss the satisfying crunch that balances the creaminess.

Q: Is this kid-friendly?

A: Absolutely! Mild, cheesy, and familiar—kids love it.

Q: Can I add more veggies?

A: Yes! Try peas, carrots, or spinach (squeeze out excess water).

More Than a Meal—It’s a Lifesaver

This casserole isn’t just dinner—it’s what you make when you need to turn scraps into something special. It’s the quiet joy of a bubbling dish that says, “You’ve got this—even on hard days.”

So shred that chicken, chop that broccoli, and let your oven do the rest. Because some of the best meals begin with what’s already in your kitchen… and end with full hearts and happy bellies.

Made this casserole? Did you use rotisserie chicken or add extra cheese? Share your twist below—we’re all about easy joy in this kitchen! 🥦🍗🧀✨


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