Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
There’s nothing quite like gathering around the table for a piping hot Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole — the kind that fills your kitchen with cozy aromas and guarantees second helpings. This classic comfort food favorite ties together juicy chicken, tender rice, and vibrant broccoli, all bubbling in a creamy sauce and topped with gooey, golden cheddar. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this trusty casserole recipe never fails to deliver on flavor, warmth, and nostalgia.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole comes from its simple but purposeful ingredient list. Each component plays a starring role: from the richness of the chicken and cheese, to the freshness of the broccoli, and the subtle savory notes of garlic and onion powder.
- Chicken (1 lb boneless, skinless breasts or thighs, diced): Choose fresh or your favorite rotisserie for ultimate convenience and juicy protein in every bite.
- Long-grain white rice (1 cup, uncooked): The base that tenderly soaks up all the savory flavors as it bakes.
- Canned condensed cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz): Adds instant creaminess and depth; swap with cream of broccoli or mushroom for a tasty twist or dietary need.
- Chicken broth (2 cups): Provides luscious moistness and rich flavor; water or milk also work, depending on your preference.
- Broccoli florets (2 cups, fresh or frozen, thawed and patted dry): Brings color, crunch, and a boost of nutrients — don’t skip this wholesome green!
- Grated sharp cheddar cheese (about 1 cup): The golden crown on top; opt for sharp cheddar for big flavor, or mix in Monterey Jack for extra meltiness.
- Garlic powder (about 1/4 tsp): Infuses subtle savory aroma throughout the casserole.
- Onion powder (about 1/4 tsp): Adds a gentle oniony sweetness that rounds out the sauce.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Enhances every ingredient; adjust with a light hand if your broth and soup are salty.
- Nonstick spray: Keeps your casserole from sticking, ensuring a perfect scoop every time.
How to Make Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) for that perfect bubbly finish. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray—this keeps clean-up easy and ensures every bit of casserole lifts right out.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Base
In your prepared baking dish, whisk together the condensed soup and chicken broth (or milk). This quick step is what gives Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole its signature creamy, velvety texture.
Step 3: Add the Main Ingredients
Stir in the uncooked rice, diced chicken, broccoli florets, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well blended, making sure each grain of rice is coated and every piece of broccoli is evenly distributed. The rice will cook in the liquid, absorbing all that flavor as it bakes.
Step 4: Cover and Bake
Cover the dish tightly with foil. This is the secret to perfectly tender rice and juicy chicken! Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has soaked up most of the liquid. Check that everything is bubbly and the chicken is cooked through.
Step 5: Top with Cheese and Bake Again
Remove the foil and sprinkle the grated sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole. Slide it back into the oven for about 5 minutes, just until the cheese is gloriously melted, golden, and irresistible.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Let your Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh herbs, like chopped parsley or chives, if you like. Scoop it onto plates and enjoy immediately while the cheese is still gooey and the flavors are at their peak!
How to Serve Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top brightens up the whole dish, making those cheesy layers pop. For extra flair, try a dusting of paprika or a few sliced scallions. These little touches add color, freshness, and a polished finish to your Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides. A crisp green salad with lemony vinaigrette, steamed green beans, or even some buttery dinner rolls all round out the meal beautifully without stealing the spotlight from the main attraction.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun spin on presentation, portion your Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole into individual ramekins for personalized servings. It’s also fantastic spooned into hollowed-out bell peppers or served buffet-style at a family gathering with a topping bar of extra cheese, hot sauce, or crunchy fried onions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Store it tightly covered or in an airtight container. The flavors meld even more over time, and it makes an excellent lunch or quick dinner next day.
Freezing
You can easily freeze single portions or the whole casserole for up to three months. Let it cool completely, then wrap well in foil and plastic wrap or seal in freezer containers. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftover casserole in the oven (covered with foil) at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual servings. If the rice has thickened, stir in a little extra chicken broth or milk to restore its signature creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
You absolutely can, but bear in mind that brown rice typically requires a longer baking time and extra liquid. Plan to add an extra 20–25 minutes in the oven and check that the rice is tender before serving.
Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you use certified gluten-free cream soup and broth, Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole is a naturally gluten-free meal. Double-check ingredient labels just to be safe.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Definitely. Rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken works great in this recipe. Just mix in about two cups of diced or shredded cooked chicken and bake as directed.
What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?
Feel free to swap in Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend for a different flavor and melt. Smoked gouda makes for a fancy twist, or go half-and-half for extra depth.
How can I make this casserole healthier?
Opt for reduced-fat cheese and soup, use low-sodium broth, and boost the broccoli to make it even more veggie-packed! You can also skip the cheese on top if you’re looking to trim a few calories (though it’s tough to say no to that gooey golden layer).
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole never goes out of style — it’s soul-satisfying, endlessly flexible, and downright delicious. Try it for your next family dinner and watch how quickly it disappears; this is comfort food magic you’ll want to make again and again!
Print
Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and cheesy casserole dish that combines tender chicken, broccoli, and rice in a creamy sauce, topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture:
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup (or cream of broccoli/mushroom)
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water or milk)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, thawed and patted dry)
Seasonings:
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping:
- About 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375 °F (190 °C) and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Mix Ingredients: In the baking dish, whisk together canned soup and broth. Add rice, diced chicken, broccoli, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well.
- Bake: Cover dish tightly with foil and bake for 55-60 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Add Cheese: Remove foil, sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole, and return to the oven for about 5 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve hot.
Notes
- You can use frozen broccoli and rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- To reduce sodium, opt for unsalted butter, low-sodium soup, and broth.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for 3-4 days; add a splash of broth or milk when reheating for moisture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: about 1/4 of casserole
- Calories: 406 kcal
- Sugar: 2.7 g
- Sodium: 995 mg
- Fat: 6.3 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: about 3.4 g
- Trans Fat: minimal
- Carbohydrates: 47 g
- Fiber: 3.2 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 82 mg
