Name: Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced); 2 cups cooked white or brown rice; 2 cups broccoli florets (lightly steamed); 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided); 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs; 1 tbsp melted butter

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If you’re searching for a dish that embodies cozy weeknights, potluck pride, and a sense of home all in one bubbly bake, look no further than Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole. This all-in-one meal brings together juicy chicken, earthy broccoli, fluffy rice, and a gooey cheddar crown for a dinner that satisfies every comfort food craving imaginable. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, using up leftovers, or just craving some creamy, cheesy magic, this recipe does it all—generously and deliciously.

Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is in its refreshingly simple ingredient list. Each one is chosen for its power to add flavor, texture, or that signature golden finish we all adore. Here’s what makes every bite shine:

Cooked chicken: Use leftovers or rotisserie for ultimate convenience and protein in every forkful.
Cooked white or brown rice: Fluffy rice soaks up all the savory sauce, creating the ultimate comfort base.
Broccoli florets: Lightly steamed to preserve color and just enough crunch amidst the creamy casserole.
Cream of chicken soup: Forms the rich, soul-warming sauce every classic casserole needs.
Sour cream: Adds a tangy creaminess that balances the cheese and smoothes the sauce.
Milk: Helps blend everything together so the casserole stays lusciously moist.
Garlic powder: Brings an aromatic warmth that lifts all the other flavors.
Onion powder: Delivers subtle depth without chopping onions (goodbye, tears!).
Salt: Rounds out the seasonings—just the right amount for balanced flavor.
Black pepper: A pinch brings gentle heat and earthiness.
Shredded cheddar cheese: A must for that melty, irresistible layer and cheesy taste throughout.
Crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs (optional): Sprinkle on top for a toasty, crunchy finish.
Melted butter (for topping): Gives your crumb topping the golden, crispy edge everyone loves.

How to Make Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Get Ready to Bake

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This step makes sure nothing sticks and your casserole will be easy to serve—nothing fancy required.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, gather your cooked chicken, cooked rice, lightly steamed broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is thoroughly combined, making sure each bite will have a little bit of everything—chicken, rice, broccoli, and just the right amount of creamy sauce and cheese.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Pour your well-mixed casserole base into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top, ensuring every inch is covered for maximum melt and flavor. If you’re in the mood for a crispy topping, now’s the time: mix your crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle it generously across the cheese layer.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for bubbly edges and a golden, slightly crisp topping (if you added one). This is when all the flavors meld together, and the Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole becomes irresistibly aromatic.

Step 5: Cool Just a Moment, Then Serve

Once your casserole is hot and bubbling, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes. This gives the sauce time to thicken slightly so every scoop holds together beautifully—trust me, it’s worth the wait!

How to Serve Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dusting of extra black pepper to bring out the color and brighten the flavor. If you love a little zing, a few thinly sliced green onions or a drizzle of hot sauce right before serving can really wake up this classic.

Side Dishes

While Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is certainly filling on its own, it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some simply roasted vegetables. A warm dinner roll or slice of baguette is perfect for soaking up all that extra creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For family dinners, serve it straight from the baking dish—rustic and inviting. If you’re hosting a potluck or want to impress guests, try spooning it into individual ramekins or mini casseroles for a fun, personalized touch. You can even use the leftovers to fill a wrap for tomorrow’s lunch—the flavors only get better!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. It reheats beautifully and makes excellent lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Freezing

This casserole is freezer-friendly! After assembling (before baking), wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed until piping hot.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil, until heated through (about 20 minutes for a whole dish or 5–7 minutes for individual portions). The microwave works in a pinch, too; just be sure to use a microwave-safe container and cover lightly to keep the steam in.

FAQs

Can I substitute another protein for the chicken?

Absolutely! Cooked turkey, ham, or even cooked ground beef can work well in this casserole. For a vegetarian version, try swapping the meat for canned chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms.

Do I need to cook the rice and broccoli in advance?

Yes, both the rice and broccoli should be cooked before adding them to the casserole. Precooked ingredients ensure even texture and that everything bakes together perfectly in the oven.

How can I make Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and swap out any cracker or breadcrumb toppings for a gluten-free alternative or simply omit them.

Can I assemble Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole ahead of time?

Definitely! Prepare everything through the assembly stage, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. It’s a lifesaver for busy nights or when entertaining.

What cheeses work well besides cheddar?

While cheddar gives that classic casserole flavor, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend for a different cheesy profile. Adding a sprinkle of parmesan to the top is also a tasty upgrade.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried making Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole at home, this is your sign to give it a go! Each cheesy, hearty, veggie-packed bite hits the spot, whether you’re gathering around the family table or sharing a meal with friends. Dig in and discover why it’s such an endlessly popular classic!

Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 12 reviews

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

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Description

A comforting and easy-to-make casserole featuring tender chicken, fluffy rice, crisp broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce, all baked to golden perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

For the casserole:

2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
2 cups cooked white or brown rice
2 cups broccoli florets (lightly steamed)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup milk
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

For the topping (optional):

1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs
1 tbsp melted butter

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the casserole: In a large bowl, mix together the chicken, rice, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and 1 cup of cheese. Spread this mixture in the baking dish.
Add toppings: Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the casserole. Optionally, combine the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
Bake: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.