If you’ve ever craved a comforting, cheesy, and hearty dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside, then this Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe is absolutely for you. It’s a perfect balance of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant broccoli, all brought together with a luscious blanket of creamy cheese sauce. What makes this dish truly special is how easy it is to prepare without skimping on flavor — a classic family favorite that’s just as great for busy weeknights as it is for cozy weekend dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this casserole is simple but essential, lending its unique touch to the overall flavor, texture, and color that make this dish so irresistible. Together, they create a winning combination that hits all the right notes.
- 2 cups cooked white rice: Acts as a fluffy, comforting base that soaks up all those delicious flavors perfectly.
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced): Provides hearty protein and savory depth to the casserole’s rich profile.
- 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets (lightly steamed): Adds a vibrant green crunch along with a fresh, slightly earthy taste.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: The secret to that creamy, flavorful sauce binding everything together effortlessly.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Brings a subtle tang and enhances the creaminess without overpowering other flavors.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the texture and helps create a smooth consistency in the casserole.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided): The star ingredient that delivers melty, golden goodness and serious cheesy comfort.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a gentle savory punch that complements the chicken beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Rounds out the flavor profile with a subtle sweetness and warmth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that elevate every bite.
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs (optional topping): Creates a satisfyingly crisp crust to finish off your casserole.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for topping): Helps those crumbs turn golden brown and irresistible in the oven.
How to Make Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by heating your oven to a cozy 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly. This ensures your casserole bakes evenly and comes out of the dish without any sticking — a simple step with a huge payoff in presentation.
Step 2: Mix the Main Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, chicken, and lightly steamed broccoli. Then add the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, a full cup of cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed, making sure you distribute all the flavors evenly.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. This is where the magic starts to come together. Sprinkle the remaining half-cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top, giving it that melty, cheesy finish that this Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe is loved for.
Step 4: Add the Topping and Bake
If you want a little extra crunch, mix your crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer. Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until it’s hot, bubbly, and golden on top. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors settle beautifully.
How to Serve Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For a pop of freshness, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions over the top just before serving. These bright garnishes not only add color but also lend a subtle herbal note that balances the richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands beautifully on its own, but pairing it with a crisp side salad or some roasted vegetables adds dimension and contrast to your meal. A light vinaigrette-dressed salad helps cut through the creamy cheese, making each bite feel refreshed.
Creative Ways to Present
For family-style dinners, serve the casserole right from the baking dish with a big spoon. Or, for more elegant occasions, plate individual portions and top with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of extra cheddar. It’s equally perfect for potlucks — just make sure to bring extra napkins because it’s irresistibly cheesy and satisfying.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep the flavors fresh and the texture intact, so you can enjoy easy meals all week.
Freezing
Want to prep ahead? Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish but don’t bake it yet. Wrap it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, bake it covered at 350°F until heated through, then uncover and bake until the top is bubbly and golden.
Reheating
To reheat your casserole, warm individual portions in the microwave until hot, about 2 to 3 minutes. For a crispier top, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes, uncovered. This way, you get that fresh-baked feel every time.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a slightly nuttier flavor and more fiber, making this casserole even heartier. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before mixing in, as brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice.
Is it okay to use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works perfectly. Just lightly steam or thaw it first to avoid extra moisture that could make the casserole soggy.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Definitely! You can swap the chicken for a plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas, and use a cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken for a tasty vegetarian twist.
What cheese works best for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar is a classic choice thanks to its bold flavor and melting quality. However, you can mix in mozzarella for extra stretch or even a bit of parmesan for a savory kick.
How spicy is the casserole?
By default, it’s mild and family-friendly. If you want to add a little heat, try mixing in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture before baking.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a cozy, cheesy, and downright satisfying dish to add to your recipe rotation, give this Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe a try. It’s easy to make, customizable, and always wins over hungry hearts at the dinner table. Once you taste it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Print
Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is a delicious and hearty meal perfect for family dinners. Combining tender cooked chicken, fluffy rice, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheese sauce, this easy-to-make casserole is baked to golden perfection with an optional buttery crumb topping for added texture.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets (lightly steamed)
- 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
Optional Topping
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula for even baking.
- Add Cheese and Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole. If using, combine the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer for a crispy topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese topping has melted and begun to brown slightly.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set and cool slightly.
Notes
- You can substitute brown rice for white rice or use rotisserie chicken to save time and effort.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture if you prefer a mild kick of heat.
- This casserole is freezer-friendly—assemble it ahead of time, freeze before baking, and bake directly from frozen, adding extra baking time.
