Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving classic, cozy comfort food, this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe is an unbeatable choice. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and fluffy rice, it’s the kind of meal you look forward to all day. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping ahead for a busy weeknight, or just want something that tastes like home, this casserole will quickly become a go-to favorite. It takes simple pantry and refrigerator staples and transforms them into something bubbling and golden that’s guaranteed to make everyone at your table smile.

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering a handful of accessible ingredients is all it takes to create this heartwarming Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe. Each component does its part, bringing flavor, texture, or that crave-worthy creamy-cheesy bite we all love in casseroles.

  • Cooked chicken (2 cups, shredded or cubed): Rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken works great and keeps things easy.
  • Cooked white or brown rice (2 cups): Fluffy rice helps soak up all the creamy goodness—use whichever type Main Course.
  • Fresh or frozen broccoli florets (2 cups, steamed or blanched): A pop of green and nutrition; blanching keeps their color vibrant and texture just right.
  • Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): This secret weapon ensures the casserole stays ultra creamy, binding everything together.
  • Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds tang and smoothness; don’t skip it for that extra depth of flavor.
  • Milk (1/2 cup): Helps loosen the mixture so it bakes nice and moist.
  • Shredded cheddar cheese (1 1/2 cups, divided): The best part—melted cheese inside and on top for ooey-gooey pull-apart bites.
  • Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): A subtle boost of savory, aromatic flavor.
  • Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Keeps things savory without chopping onions.
  • Salt and pepper (to taste): Season to suit your preferences and balance the flavors.
  • Crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (1/2 cup, optional topping): Adds an irresistible crunchy finish if you love texture contrasts.
  • Melted butter (2 tablespoons): Helps those cracker crumbs or breadcrumbs get perfectly golden and toasty.

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of butter or nonstick spray—this makes serving a breeze and prevents any sticking. Having the dish ready before you mix the casserole means you can transfer everything over without a mess or delay.

Step 2: Mix the Casserole Base

Grab your largest mixing bowl and toss in the cooked chicken, cooked rice, prepared broccoli florets, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until every last grain and chunk is thoroughly coated in that rich, creamy mixture. This is the moment when all those distinct flavors begin to marry, promising deep, comforting taste in every bite.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Pour that luscious, well-mixed base into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese right over the top—this becomes a bubbly, golden crown once baked. If you’re going for the crunchy topping (and honestly, it’s worth it!), mix your crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter and scatter that all over the cheese layer.

Step 4: Bake

Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for a casserole that’s bubbling at the edges and golden on top—your kitchen will smell so inviting, you’ll want to dig in right away. Let the casserole sit out for about five minutes after baking so it sets up just enough for perfect slices.

How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

I love finishing this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe with a little flourish. Fresh parsley or chopped green onions look gorgeous against the rich yellow and green, and just a quick sprinkle brightens up each serving. For a hint of spice, try a dusting of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce just before serving.

Side Dishes

Since this casserole is hearty and satisfying, you don’t need much on the side. I recommend serving it alongside a crisp simple salad, steamed green beans, or fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast. Warm dinner rolls or crusty bread are also amazing for mopping up every last bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

You can elevate your casserole presentation by serving scoops in individual ramekins for dinner parties, or by topping each portion with a dollop of sour cream and sprigs of fresh herbs. For family gatherings, bring the whole bubbly dish straight to the table so everyone can help themselves to hearty servings—there’s something special about sharing from a single, golden pan.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers from your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Just cover the dish tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. This makes lunch or a quick dinner the next day an absolute treat.

Freezing

If you love to meal prep, you’ll be glad to know this casserole freezes like a dream. Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in both plastic wrap and foil. Store the whole casserole or individual servings in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, pop individual servings in the microwave until heated through, or warm the entire casserole (covered with foil to retain moisture) in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes. If the topping needs a little crisping, remove the foil for the final few minutes.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Absolutely! Brown rice adds a lovely nuttiness and holds up well in the casserole, making the Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe even heartier and higher in fiber. Just be sure the rice is fully cooked before adding it to the mix.

What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?

If you prefer homemade or need a different option, use a homemade white sauce or cream of mushroom soup instead. Both will provide that same creamy texture, giving your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe a delicious twist.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Try tossing in carrots, peas, or even sautéed mushrooms for extra color and nutrition. Just make sure any added vegetables are cooked or partially steamed so they’re tender once the casserole is baked.

How do I make this casserole gluten free?

Opt for a gluten-free cream soup (there are many brands available), use cooked rice as usual, and skip the cracker topping or choose gluten-free breadcrumbs. You’ll still get all of that delicious comfort in your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe without any gluten.

Is it possible to assemble this casserole in advance?

Yes, and it’s a great timesaver! Simply mix and assemble everything up to a day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes since it’s starting from cold, and the Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe will come out just as bubbly and delicious.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a meal that’s equal parts comforting, convenient, and crowd-pleasing, this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe checks every box. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your kitchen—one of those feel-good dishes everyone asks for again and again. Happy baking!

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Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe


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4.9 from 10 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Description

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting and cheesy dish that’s perfect for a family dinner. Tender chicken, rice, and broccoli are baked in a creamy sauce, topped with melted cheese and buttery breadcrumbs.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
  • 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
  • 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets (steamed or blanched)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (optional topping)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine chicken, rice, broccoli, soup, sour cream, milk, 1 cup cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Spread Mixture: Spread the mixture in the baking dish, top with remaining cheese.
  4. Add Topping: Optionally, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
  5. Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  6. Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience.
  • For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 670mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 26g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

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