If you’re craving a cozy, delicious dinner that the whole family will love, the Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole Recipe is an absolute winner. This casserole blends tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant broccoli with a luscious cheese sauce that’s comforting and full of flavor. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate – perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend gatherings. The creamy texture paired with the fresh bite of broccoli and the cheesy topping makes for an irresistible combination that’s sure to become a household favorite in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in creating that perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the creamy soup base to the sharp cheddar cheese, each element contributes to the overall deliciousness of this comforting casserole.
- 2 cups cooked white rice: Provides a soft and fluffy foundation that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed): Adds lean protein and hearty texture for a satisfying meal.
- 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets (steamed until just tender): Brings vibrant color and a nutritious crunch that balances the richness.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup: Creates that luscious, creamy sauce that ties everything together.
- ½ cup sour cream: Adds tangy richness that elevates the cheesy flavor.
- ½ cup milk: Lightens the sauce to a perfect consistency for baking.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle warmth and depth of flavor.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Adds a gentle savory note to brighten the dish.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Provides a mild kick that rounds out the taste.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided): The star ingredient that melts to create creamy, gooey goodness.
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (optional topping): Adds a lovely golden crunch when mixed with butter and baked on top.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for topping): Helps crisp and brown the topping for irresistible texture.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Casserole Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch casserole dish. This helps prevent sticking and ensures an even bake, setting the stage for the perfect casserole.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Filling
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, cooked chicken, and steamed broccoli. Add in the can of condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, then add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything gently but thoroughly until well mixed. This forms the creamy, flavorful base of your casserole.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared casserole dish, making sure it’s nicely leveled for even baking. Then, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top. If you’re adding a crunchy topping, mix the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer. This step adds a delightful crispy texture you’re going to love.
Step 4: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden
Bake the casserole uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until it’s hot and bubbly around the edges and the top is golden and slightly crispy. This final touch brings all the flavors together and makes every bite absolutely irresistible. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow everything to set nicely.
How to Serve Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives on top adds a burst of color and a fresh herbal note that brightens the richness. If you love a little heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes works beautifully here as well.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a hearty meal on its own, but serving it alongside a crisp green salad or a light vinaigrette-dressed slaw can balance the creaminess. Roasted carrots or garlic bread are also excellent choices to round out your dinner table.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this casserole in individual ramekins for personal portions, perfect for a cozy dinner party or meal prep. You can also layer it in a clear baking dish to showcase the vibrant colors of broccoli, cheese, and chicken, making it as pretty as it is tasty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of the Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole Recipe keep wonderfully covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to transfer to an airtight container to maintain its moisture and flavors.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully! Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave for 2 to 3 minutes or until heated through. For larger portions, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes. Adding a little extra shredded cheese on top before reheating can freshen it right up.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and a bit more texture, making the casserole even heartier. Just make sure the rice is fully cooked before mixing into the casserole.
Is it okay to use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works perfectly here. Just steam or microwave it until just tender before adding to prevent extra water from making the casserole too soggy.
What can I substitute for the cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer to avoid canned soup, you can make a quick homemade white sauce using butter, flour, and milk seasoned with chicken broth powder or bouillon for similar creaminess and flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or even peas. Just make sure any added veggies are cooked or partially cooked before baking.
How spicy is this recipe?
On its own, this casserole is mild and kid-friendly, but if you want a little zing, adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce is an easy way to spice things up.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole Recipe is one of those special dishes that combines simplicity and comfort flawlessly. It’s a wonderful way to bring together familiar flavors into a crowd-pleasing meal that’s both nourishing and indulgent. Whether you’re feeding your family or a group of friends, don’t hesitate to give it a try—you might just find your new go-to casserole that everyone asks for again and again!
Print
Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and 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
Description
A comforting and hearty Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole that combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and creamy cheese sauce baked to perfection. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for family dinners, delivering a balanced meal with a cheesy, flavorful twist.
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
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (optional)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked rice, shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until evenly combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the combined mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish, smoothing the top for even cooking.
- Add Cheese and Topping: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole. If desired, mix the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer for a crispy topping.
- Bake the Casserole: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese is melted and golden.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes to set before serving. This allows flavors to meld and makes serving easier.
Notes
- Substitute the white rice with brown rice or quinoa for a healthier alternative.
- Rotisserie chicken can be used for a quick and convenient protein option.
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture if you prefer a bit of heat.
- The casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake, making it perfect for meal prep.
