Hey y’all! If you’re searching for a cozy, comforting meal that’s a total crowd-pleaser, this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is it. Packed with juicy chicken, tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and gooey cheese, it’s the ultimate one-pan wonder – perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even meal prep. Why settle for bland casseroles when you can whip up this tasty, creamy classic in no time? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
- Quick and easy to prepare, making dinner a breeze on hectic nights.
- Family-friendly flavors that even picky eaters will devour.
- Loaded with protein, veggies, and cheesy goodness in every bite.
- Perfect for meal prep – leftovers reheat beautifully!
- Customizable with your favorite add-ins and cheeses.
Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (blanched 1-2 min)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 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
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
How to Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Make sure your chicken, rice, and broccoli are all cooked and ready to go.
Step 2: Mix the Casserole Base
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Add Chicken, Rice & Broccoli
Fold in the diced chicken, cooked rice, and blanched broccoli florets. Mix until everything is coated in the creamy sauce.
Step 4: Assemble the Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese evenly on top.
Step 5: Add Crunchy Topping (Optional)
In a small bowl, toss crushed crackers or panko with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the casserole for an extra crispy finish.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving so it sets up nicely.
Notes & Helpful Cooking Tips
- To save time, use a rotisserie chicken or leftover baked chicken. For more chicken-cooking tips, check out this poaching guide.
- Feel free to swap in frozen broccoli – just thaw and drain before adding.
- For a lighter casserole, use low-fat sour cream and cheese.
Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Mushroom Twist: Use cream of mushroom soup and add sautéed mushrooms for extra umami.
- Tex-Mex Style: Mix in 1/2 cup salsa and use pepper jack cheese.
Required Equipment for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or large spoon
Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Storage Instructions
Let leftovers cool completely, then cover tightly or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions until hot. For longer storage, freeze (tightly wrapped) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
- Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Serve with warm dinner rolls or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Try with a refreshing lemonade or your favorite white wine.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
- Shred your own cheese for a smoother, meltier topping—pre-shredded blends can be drier. Learn about cheese melting properties from The Kitchn.
- Don’t overcook the casserole, or it may dry out. Bake just until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Season your chicken and broccoli well before adding for deeper flavor throughout.
Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole FAQ
- Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
- Absolutely! Just make sure it’s fully cooked before adding, as brown rice takes longer to soften.
- How do I make this casserole gluten-free?
- Use gluten-free condensed soup and gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping.
- Can I make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole ahead of time?
- Yes! Assemble it up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding a few extra minutes as needed.
For more tips on healthy casseroles, visit EatingWell’s Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole guide.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Serves: 6
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
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1Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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2In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
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3Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
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4If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crunchy topping.
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5Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
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6Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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