Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole is the ultimate one-dish comfort food. Loaded with tender chicken, fluffy rice, broccoli florets, and gooey melted cheese, this hearty meal is perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a hungry crowd. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor in every bite. This casserole is simple to prepare and bakes to golden perfection, making it a dependable go-to recipe when you want something delicious, filling, and family-approved.
What Makes This Dish Special?
This casserole combines everyday ingredients into something spectacular. It uses pantry staples like rice and canned soup, but feels like a cozy, home-cooked hug. It’s easily customizable—you can use rotisserie chicken, fresh or frozen broccoli, and swap cheeses to your taste. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies for picky eaters!
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or thawed frozen)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese or crushed Ritz crackers for topping
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole pan.
2. Mix the Casserole Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until everything is well mixed.
3. Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly with a spatula.
4. Add Toppings
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Add Parmesan cheese or crushed crackers if using for extra texture and flavor.
5. Bake
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
6. Cool and Serve
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly. Serve warm and enjoy!
Variations
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne or some chopped jalapeños.
- Creamier Version: Stir in ½ cup cream cheese for an ultra-rich texture.
- Healthier Twist: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and add extra broccoli.
- Low Carb: Swap out the rice for cauliflower rice to make it keto-friendly.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13-inch casserole dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or large spoon
- Oven
Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 24g
- Sugar: 3g
- Fiber: 2g
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap the cooled casserole in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Microwave individual portions or reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
My Cooking Experience
This recipe is a staple in my weeknight rotation, especially when I have leftover chicken or rice. It comes together so easily, and the creamy, cheesy flavor is always a hit. I often double the recipe and freeze one for a busy night. My family loves the crunchy topping variation with Ritz crackers!
Conclusion
Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole is a classic comfort dish that delivers every time. It’s hearty, cheesy, and loaded with satisfying textures and flavors. Whether you make it for meal prep, a family dinner, or a potluck, this casserole is bound to be a favorite.
cheesy broccoli chicken and rice casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until everything is well mixed.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Add Parmesan cheese or crushed crackers if using for extra texture and flavor.
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap the cooled casserole in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
