If you’re looking for a heartwarming, cozy dish that feels like a big, comforting hug on a plate, this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe is about to become your new best friend. It blends tender chicken, tender-crisp broccoli, and fluffy rice baked together with creamy cheddar and just the right seasoning – all topped with a golden crust that makes every bite totally irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping a satisfying meal to enjoy all week, this casserole balances flavor, texture, and ease in a way that feels like home with every forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together simply but brilliantly, each playing a vital role to deliver that classic comforting taste and perfect texture. From the fluffy cooked rice setting the base to the creamy cheddar cheese weaving everything together, these essentials guarantee a lovely balance of freshness, creaminess, and hearty goodness.
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown): The versatile staple that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: Provides tender protein and satisfying substance.
- 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets: Adds vibrant color and a delicious crunch when cooked just right.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping): Melts into velvety richness with a sharp, comforting flavor.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup: The secret creamy binder that makes this casserole so luscious.
- 1/2 cup milk: Helps create that smooth, creamy texture throughout.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a gentle yet flavorful punch.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Deepens the savory profile without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that bring everything together.
- Optional – 1/2 cup breadcrumbs mixed with 2 tablespoons melted butter: Creates a golden, crispy topping that adds delightful contrast.
How to Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) so it’s hot and ready for baking the casserole to golden perfection. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray to make sure your cheesy masterpiece doesn’t stick and comes out easily after baking.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
Fresh or frozen broccoli works perfectly here. If using fresh, steam or blanch the florets for 2-3 minutes until they are tender yet still have a nice crispness. This step keeps them vibrant and prevents overcooking during baking. Drain well to avoid excess moisture in your casserole.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a spacious bowl, combine the cooked rice, tender chicken, prepped broccoli, cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper. Stir everything thoroughly to make sure each bite will be packed with flavor and creaminess. This mixture is the heart of your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the mixed ingredients evenly in your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. This creates a uniform layer that will cook evenly in the oven.
Step 5: Add Toppings and Bake
Sprinkle an extra handful of shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole for that irresistible cheesy top layer. If you love a crunchy bite, mix your breadcrumbs with melted butter and scatter that on top as well. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until you see bubbling, golden edges and a beautifully browned top that promises rich flavor in every forkful.
Step 6: Cool Slightly and Serve
Once out of the oven, give your casserole a few minutes to set and cool slightly. This short wait makes serving easier and lets the flavors settle, so when you dig in, every spoonful holds together perfectly with creamy, cheesy delight.
How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a touch of fresh green herbs like chopped parsley or chives on top can brighten the dish visually and add a fresh counterpoint to the creamy casserole. A light sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper also enhances the savory flavors before serving.
Side Dishes
Though this casserole is a hearty dish on its own, pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables will add lovely texture and freshness to the meal. A tangy citrus vinaigrette on the salad can balance the creamy richness delightfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins for a charming presentation at family dinners or potlucks. You can also layer the casserole in a glass baking dish to showcase the colorful broccoli and rice layers, adding visual appeal to your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This keeps all the flavors fresh and the texture just right for quick meals later in the week.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully! Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. To retain the best texture, it’s best to add any crispy breadcrumb toppings fresh after reheating rather than freezing them pre-baked.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 175°C (350°F) until warmed through. If you want to revive some crunch, add a bit of extra cheese or breadcrumbs to the top before heating or finish with a quick broil just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber. Just make sure it’s cooked before mixing into the casserole, as the baking time won’t be enough to cook it through.
Is there a way to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, swap out the chicken for cooked mushrooms, chickpeas, or even tofu, and use a creamy mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken. You’ll still get that rich, comforting flavor with a vegetarian twist.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time and bake it later?
Definitely! Assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great option for busy days or entertaining with less last-minute fuss.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
You can make a simple homemade substitute using butter, flour, milk, and chicken broth. This homemade version reduces preservatives and lets you control the flavor and thickness perfectly.
How do I make the topping extra crispy?
Mixing breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkling generously on top before baking is a tried-and-true way. You can also add some grated Parmesan for an extra savory crunch.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe is pure comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any meal. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and so satisfying that it’s bound to become a dinner-time favorite. Give it a try and watch how quickly it disappears from the table – trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!
Print
Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole combines tender cooked chicken, fresh or frozen broccoli, and fluffy rice in a creamy cheddar cheese sauce, baked to golden perfection with an optional crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for a family dinner, this hearty casserole is easy to prepare and packed with classic flavors.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup (or homemade substitute)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking.
- Cook the Broccoli: Steam or blanch the fresh broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes until they turn tender yet still crisp, then drain well to remove excess water.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, broccoli, cheddar cheese, condensed cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Assemble: Spread the prepared mixture evenly into the greased baking dish, smoothing out the top for even cooking.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle extra shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole. If using, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle this over the cheese layer for a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with a homemade white sauce for a fresher taste.
- For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat cheese and milk.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
- If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain excess water before mixing.
- Adding chopped onions or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and texture.
