Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

If there’s one dish that captures the heart of comfort food, it has to be Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole. This recipe brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, creamy sauce, and a blanket of bubbly melted cheese, all nestled on a bed of perfectly cooked rice. It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with cozy aromas and always feels like a warm embrace, whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a busy weeknight or craving something nostalgic and satisfying. Let’s get ready to whip up a Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole that’s sure to win rave reviews at your table!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is how it transforms simple, wholesome ingredients into something utterly crave-worthy. Each component brings its own magic—texture, flavor, and color—working together for a harmonious and satisfying bite.

• Cooked White Rice: The soft and starchy base, perfect for soaking up all that creamy goodness.
• Cooked Chicken (shredded or cubed): Gives substance and heartiness—rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver!
• Broccoli Florets (steamed or blanched): Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor; don’t overcook, so it keeps a bit of crunch!
• Cream of Chicken Soup: Brings the whole casserole together in a silky, savory sauce.
• Sour Cream: Adds tang and extra creaminess without weighing things down.
• Milk: Loosens up the sauce so every bite is perfectly moist.
• Garlic Powder: Subtly boosts the savory depth—just enough to notice.
• Onion Powder: Lends a gentle, nuanced onion flavor without any chopping.
• Salt: Brings out all the flavors in the casseroles; taste before adding more!
• Black Pepper: A must for just the right bite; use freshly cracked if you have it.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (divided): Melts into the filling and forms that irresistible golden crust on top.
• Crushed Buttery Crackers or Breadcrumbs (optional): Provides a crunchy, buttery finish—try Ritz or Panko for extra pizzazz.
• Melted Butter (if using topping): Helps the topping brown to perfection.

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a dab of butter—this helps ensure every delicious scoop serves up easily, with no sticky cheese left behind!

Step 2: Mix the Casserole Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, chicken, steamed or blanched broccoli florets, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything together until evenly combined—the mixture should look creamy, colorful, and positively irresistible at this stage.

Step 3: Assemble It All

Spoon the mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer with a spatula. This helps the Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole bake evenly and ensures every bite has that worry-free combination of textures.

Step 4: Add the Cheese and (Optional) Topping

Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top for that gorgeous golden layer. If you’re in the mood for added crunch, toss crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter and scatter over the cheese for extra flair. It’ll bake up into a beautifully crisp topping that’s hard to resist.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide your casserole into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbly, piping-hot center and a golden top. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving—this makes it easier to cut and gives the flavors a moment to settle.

How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Garnishes

Brighten up your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole with a sprinkling of freshly chopped parsley or sliced green onions. These little pops of color and freshness contrast deliciously with the warm, creamy casserole, waking up every bite and making your dish look extra inviting.

Side Dishes

This casserole is a main event in itself, but it plays nicely alongside a crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette or simple steamed green beans. For sheer comfort food heaven, serve with a warm bread roll or a slice of crusty artisan bread to mop up any cheesy sauce left on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party twist, scoop portions into individual ramekins and bake them as single servings—everyone loves their own little bubbling casserole! Or if you’re feeling bold, serve Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole on a bed of extra sautéed greens for a vibrant, bistro-style presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and pop them in the refrigerator. The Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole will stay delicious for up to 4 days, making it an excellent option for meal prepping or next-day lunches.

Freezing

If you want to freeze for later, assemble the casserole (but hold off on the cracker or breadcrumb topping if using) and wrap tightly in foil. You can freeze Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw overnight in the fridge before baking so everything heats evenly.

Reheating

To reheat, place leftover portions in a baking dish covered with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through (about 20 minutes). For single servings, the microwave works just fine, but if you crave that crispy topping, a few minutes under the broiler will do the trick!

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice brings a lovely nutty flavor and extra fiber. Just make sure it’s cooked and cooled before adding it to your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole mixture, as it tends to be a bit heartier than white rice.

Is it possible to make this casserole gluten free?

Yes! Choose a certified gluten-free cream of chicken soup, double-check your seasonings, and swap regular crackers or breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this a flexible and inclusive dish.

What’s the best way to cook the chicken for this recipe?

Rotisserie chicken is hands-down the easiest option, but you can also use poached, baked, or leftover grilled chicken. Just make sure it’s seasoned to your liking and shredded or cubed. Even leftover turkey will work in a pinch!

Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?

Definitely! Peas, diced carrots, or sautéed mushrooms blend in beautifully. Just remember to cook and drain extra veggies beforehand to keep the casserole from turning watery.

How do I keep the broccoli bright green?

Blanch your broccoli florets in boiling water for 2 minutes, then immediately plunge them in ice water before adding to the casserole. This locks in their color and keeps them perfectly tender-crisp in your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to dig into your own pan of Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole! Every forkful is creamy, cheesy, packed with flavor, and filled with nothing but comfort. Whether you’re sharing it with family or treating yourself after a long day, this casserole is bound to become your new go-to. Give it a try—you deserve a dinner that feels like a warm, happy hug!

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