If you are searching for a comforting, flavorful meal that’s both wholesome and irresistibly cheesy, then you must try this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe. It’s a warm, cozy dish loaded with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy melted cheese all nestled into tender rice. This casserole brings together simple ingredients in a delightful harmony of textures and tastes, perfect for a family dinner any night of the week. Once you make it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again, especially when craving that perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with the freshness of broccoli and hearty chicken.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is in its straightforward, easy-to-find ingredients that each bring something special to the dish. From the moist, cooked chicken adding hearty protein to the vibrant broccoli that offers freshness and color, each element plays an important part in creating a balanced and tasty casserole.
- 2 cups cooked white rice: Provides a tender, fluffy base that soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed): Adds satisfying protein and a savory depth.
- 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets (steamed until just tender): Brings a fresh, slightly crisp vegetal bite and vibrant green color.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup: Creates the signature creamy, savory sauce that ties everything together.
- ½ cup sour cream: Adds tang and richness to enhance the creaminess.
- ½ cup milk: Lightens the mixture just enough for perfect texture.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle, aromatic warmth throughout the dish.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Compliments the garlic with a mild, savory hint.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all flavors without overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle kick and balances the creaminess.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided): The cheesy star that binds the casserole with gooey, melty goodness.
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (optional topping): Adds a delightful crunchy golden crust when mixed with butter.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for topping): Helps create a perfectly crisp, buttery topping if using crackers or breadcrumbs.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch casserole dish. This ensures your casserole will bake evenly without sticking, giving you a nice, easy clean-up.
Step 2: Mix the Main Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, chicken, and steamed broccoli. Stir in the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Make sure everything is evenly mixed so each bite gets that creamy, cheesy goodness balanced with the fresh broccoli and tender chicken.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared casserole dish. This layer is the heart of your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe, so smooth it out nicely so it bakes uniformly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top for that irresistible golden melt.
Step 4: Add Crunchy Topping
If you’re feeling fancy, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle this on top of the cheddar layer. This step is optional but highly recommended because it adds that scrumptious, crunchy contrast to the creamy interior.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole for 25 to 30 minutes, or until it’s completely hot and bubbling around the edges. Once out of the oven, let it sit for 5 minutes to firm up slightly, making it easier to serve and enjoy.
How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or chives add a pop of color and a subtle freshness that complements the rich flavors perfectly. A light sprinkle of additional shredded cheddar cheese on top just before serving is also a nice touch if you want that extra cheesy flair.
Side Dishes
This casserole is substantial all on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. A tangy cranberry or apple sauce can also add a bright, sweet counterpoint that refreshes the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve it familystyle in the casserole dish for a cozy, homey feel, or dish it up individually in small ramekins for a charming presentation at a dinner party. You can even stuff bell peppers or hollowed-out tomatoes with the casserole mix for a fun, portable twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let leftover casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days, retaining its creamy texture and delicious flavors.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully! Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as usual.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through. If you prefer the microwave, cover loosely and heat in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring halfway to keep it creamy and evenly heated.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice works well and adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber, though it may change the texture slightly by making it a bit heartier.
Is there a good substitute for cream of chicken soup?
Yes, you can make a quick homemade white sauce with butter, flour, milk, and chicken broth to keep things fresh and avoid canned soup, or use cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply swap the chicken for cooked chickpeas or extra broccoli and use vegetable soup instead of cream of chicken for a tasty vegetarian option.
Does frozen broccoli work as well as fresh?
Frozen broccoli is a great convenient alternative. Just be sure to steam or thaw it and drain any excess moisture before mixing to avoid a watery casserole.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Yes! Feel free to sneak in some diced carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition. Just cook them until tender before adding to the mix.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe is pure comfort food at its best—easy, nourishing, and downright delicious. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this casserole will become your go-to solution for a satisfying, cheesy meal packed with wholesome ingredients. So gather your favorite cheese, steam that broccoli, and get ready to make this dish your new family favorite!
Print
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
A hearty and comforting Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, creamy cheese, and fluffy rice baked to perfection. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, this casserole is easy to make, delicious, and kid-friendly.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets, steamed until just tender
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Topping (Optional)
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, chicken, steamed broccoli, condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish, ensuring an even layer for consistent cooking.
- Add Cheese and Topping: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole. If using, mix crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle this mixture on top for a crunchy finish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the top is lightly golden.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set and cool slightly.
Notes
- Substitute brown rice or quinoa for white rice for a healthier variation.
- Rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience and added flavor.
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
- This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until you are ready to bake it.
