Are you tired of boring, repetitive meal prep that leaves you dreading lunchtime? Get ready to revolutionize your meal planning with these mouthwatering Chicken Broccoli Casserole Jars that are not just delicious, but incredibly convenient! Imagine having a restaurant-quality, nutritious meal ready in just 45 minutes that you can grab and go throughout the week. This game-changing recipe combines tender shredded chicken, crisp broccoli, hearty brown rice, and melted cheddar cheese into perfectly portioned mason jar meals that will make your colleagues jealous and your taste buds dance!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 jars
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cooked brown rice
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare all ingredients by ensuring chicken is fully cooked and shredded, broccoli is chopped into small florets, and brown rice is cooked and cooled.
- Steam the broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender, but still crisp. Immediately rinse with cold water to stop cooking and drain thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, cooked brown rice, and cream of chicken soup. Mix well to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper, stirring gently to incorporate the seasonings evenly.
- Take four clean mason jars and begin layering the ingredients. Start with a base of brown rice at the bottom of each jar.
- Add the chicken and broccoli mixture on top of the rice, filling each jar about 3/4 full.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each jar, ensuring even coverage.
- Place the jars on a baking sheet and put them in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes. If preparing for meal prep, allow to cool completely before sealing with lids.
- Store in refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to eat, reheat in microwave for 2-3 minutes or until thoroughly warm.
Tips
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken or quickly poach chicken breasts for the most tender meat.
- Ensure broccoli is not overcooked - it should remain bright green and slightly crisp for the best texture.
- Let the casserole cool completely before sealing jars to prevent condensation and maintain food safety.
- For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or dried herbs to the chicken mixture.
- Use wide-mouth mason jars for easier layering and reheating.
- If meal prepping for the entire week, you can freeze these jars for up to 2 months (just don't add the cheese before freezing).
- Always reheat thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure food safety.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 75mg
