STOUFFER'S CHEESY CHICKEN & BROCCOLI RICE BAKE TENDER WHITE MEAT CHICKEN AND BROCCOLI WITH RICE IN A CHEESY SAUCE, TOPPED WITH BREAD CRUMBS, CHEESY CHICKEN & BROCCOLI RICE BAKE
STOUFFER'S CHEESY CHICKEN & BROCCOLI RICE BAKE scores 44/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its moderate sodium content.
FoodScore: 44/100 (Poor).
Contains 8.1g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
Classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Sodium content is 336.99mg per 100g, which is moderate.
Offers less fiber (0.8g) compared to a whole-grain equivalent.
Scores -3 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
0.8g
3% of Daily Value
Protein
8.13g
16% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
336.99mg
15% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (8.1g)+4
−
What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 44
STOUFFER'S CHEESY CHICKEN & BROCCOLI RICE BAKE receives a FoodScore of 44 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is significantly impacted by its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a -10 point penalty. While the product provides 8.1g of protein per 100g, earning a +4 bonus, other nutritional aspects contribute to its lower score. It contains 6.1g of total fat, with 2.03g being saturated fat, and a moderate sodium level of 336.99mg per 100g. The fiber content is low at 0.8g per 100g, and it lacks significant amounts of several micronutrients, with 0% DV for potassium, magnesium, zinc, Vitamin D, B12, and Folate. The ingredient list includes blanched enriched long grain parboiled rice and various additives like maltodextrin and modified food starch, which are common in ultra-processed items. Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, this STOUFFER'S product offers considerably less dietary fiber and a higher degree of processing.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in stouffer's cheesy chicken & broccoli rice bake tender white meat chicken and broccoli with rice in a cheesy sauce, topped with bread crumbs, cheesy chicken & broccoli rice bake actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Protein
This STOUFFER'S product offers 8.13g of protein per 100g serving, which can contribute to your daily protein intake. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and repair, and including it in meals can help promote feelings of fullness. For individuals looking for a quick meal option that includes protein, this product can serve that purpose, though it should be balanced with other nutrient-dense foods.
Contains Some Essential Micronutrients
While not a primary source, STOUFFER'S CHEESY CHICKEN & BROCCOLI RICE BAKE provides some micronutrients. It contains 6% DV of calcium and 9% DV of Vitamin A per 100g, along with 4% DV of Vitamin C. These nutrients play roles in bone health, vision, and immune function, respectively. When consumed as part of a varied diet, these small contributions can add up, though it is important to seek out richer sources of these vitamins and minerals.
Convenient Meal Option
This product offers a convenient and quick meal solution for busy individuals. Its ready-to-heat format can be useful on occasions when time for meal preparation is limited. While convenience is a practical benefit, it is advisable to consider the overall nutritional profile and balance it with less processed foods throughout the week to ensure a diverse intake of nutrients.
STOUFFER'S CHEESY CHICKEN & BROCCOLI RICE BAKE scores 44/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its moderate sodium content.
How to eat it
STOUFFER'S CHEESY CHICKEN & BROCCOLI RICE BAKE is typically consumed as a main meal, often heated in a microwave or oven. A common portion size is one cup, which is the declared serving size. It's a convenient option for quick lunches or dinners, but it's important to consider its nutritional density.
To enhance the nutritional value, pair this dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables to increase fiber and micronutrient intake.
Consider consuming a smaller portion of the bake and supplementing with a lean protein source like grilled chicken or fish to reduce sodium per meal.
If you are monitoring sodium intake, balance this meal with other low-sodium foods throughout the day to manage overall daily intake.
For a more balanced meal, add a source of whole grains such as a small serving of quinoa or brown rice on the side.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with allergies to milk, soy, or wheat should be aware that this product contains these common allergens, as indicated by ingredients like skim milk, isolated soy protein, and wheat flour. The presence of carrageenan and modified food starch may be a concern for some individuals with digestive sensitivities. While the sodium content is moderate, those on sodium-restricted diets should monitor their intake, as 336.99mg per 100g can contribute significantly to daily limits if larger portions are consumed or if other meals are also high in sodium. The product is also classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4), which is a general consideration for overall dietary health.
Is STOUFFER'S Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Bake a healthy meal option?
STOUFFER'S Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Bake scores 44/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it provides protein, its classification as an ultra-processed food and moderate sodium content mean it's not ideal for regular consumption as a primary healthy meal. It can fit into a balanced diet occasionally, especially when supplemented with fresh vegetables.
How does STOUFFER'S Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Bake compare to a homemade version?
Compared to a homemade cheesy chicken and broccoli rice bake using whole ingredients, the STOUFFER'S product is likely to be higher in sodium and contain more processed ingredients like maltodextrin and modified food starch. A homemade version would typically offer more fiber, fewer additives, and allow for better control over fat and sodium levels, aligning more closely with dietary guidelines.
What is 'blanched enriched long grain parboiled rice' and how does it affect nutrition?
Blanched enriched long grain parboiled rice is rice that has been partially boiled in its husk, which helps retain some nutrients. It is then 'enriched' with added iron, niacin, thiamin mononitrate, and folic acid. While this process adds back some micronutrients, it is still a refined grain and typically provides less fiber than whole grain rice.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
The declared serving size for STOUFFER'S Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Bake is 1 cup. Adhering to this portion size helps manage calorie, fat, and sodium intake. If you consume more than one cup, the nutritional values, including sodium and saturated fat, will increase proportionally.
Can this product be part of a weight management plan?
With 134.15 calories per 100g, this product can fit into a weight management plan if portion sizes are controlled and it is balanced with lower-calorie, nutrient-dense foods. However, its ultra-processed nature and moderate sodium content suggest it should not be a staple. Focus on whole, unprocessed foods for the majority of your diet when managing weight.
Are there similar frozen meals that are less processed?
Finding frozen meals that are significantly less processed than NOVA 4 can be challenging in the ready-meal category. Some brands, like Amy's Kitchen, offer options that may use fewer highly processed ingredients and focus on organic or whole food components, though they may still contain moderate sodium levels. Always check the ingredient list and nutrition facts for comparison.