Broccoli Rice Cheese and Chicken Casserole is the definition of comfort food. This creamy, cheesy, and hearty dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and crisp broccoli all bound together with a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s a crowd-pleasing dinner that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings.
This casserole is versatile, you can use leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or freshly cooked chicken breasts. The rice provides a filling base, the broccoli adds freshness, and the melted cheese ties everything together into a warm, cozy bake. Whether you’re feeding kids, serving guests, or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, steamed until tender)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 small onion, diced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers (for topping)
Preparation
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
- In a skillet, melt butter and sauté onion until soft and translucent.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a large bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Stir in 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
- Fold in cooked rice, chicken, and broccoli.
- Mix gently until everything is evenly coated in the sauce.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
- Spread mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese on top.
- Add breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for crunch.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until hot and bubbly with a golden topping.
Variations
- Healthier Twist: Use brown rice, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and reduced-fat cheese.
- Extra Cheesy: Mix in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Velveeta for creaminess.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
- One-Pot Shortcut: Use leftover rotisserie chicken and microwave rice for a quick prep version.
Cooking Notes
- Broccoli should be lightly steamed before adding so it doesn’t turn mushy in the casserole.
- If the mixture looks too thick, add an extra splash of milk.
- Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Pair with garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Add roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts on the side for extra veggies.
💡 Tips
- Always shred your own cheese—it melts creamier than pre-shredded.
- To make ahead, assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freeze unbaked casserole (without topping) for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before baking.
- For crispier topping, broil the casserole for 1–2 minutes at the end.
Timing
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, 8 servings)
- Calories: 360
- Protein: 22g
- Sodium: 640mg
❓ FAQs
Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli without steaming first?
- It’s best to steam or thaw slightly before adding to avoid excess water in the casserole.
Q2: What type of rice works best?
- Cooked long-grain white rice or brown rice both work well. Avoid instant rice for best texture.
Q3: Can I substitute cream of mushroom soup?
- Yes, cream of mushroom or cream of celery can be used instead of cream of chicken.
Q4: Can I add other vegetables?
- Definitely! Peas, carrots, or spinach are great additions.
Q5: How do I store leftovers?
- Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Conclusion
Broccoli, rice, cheese, and chicken casserole is a hearty, family-friendly dish that combines the best of comfort food—tender chicken, creamy sauce, cheesy goodness, and wholesome veggies. Easy to prepare, versatile to customize, and perfect for weeknights or holiday gatherings, this casserole is one you’ll turn to again and again.