Looking for the ultimate comfort dish that’s a weeknight lifesaver and guaranteed crowd-pleaser? The Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole has got you covered! This creamy, cheesy bake brings together everything you love: tender chicken, hearty rice, vibrant broccoli, and a melty duo of cheddar and Parmesan, all blanketed in a savory sauce. It’s a dish that’s as easy as it is cozy, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving something gloriously satisfying without a lot of fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole so delightful is how effortlessly a handful of humble ingredients come together to make magic. Each element, from the broccoli’s pop of green to the cheesy goodness holding it all together, deserves a starring role in every bite.
- Cooked Chicken Breast: Tender, bite-sized pieces ensure every forkful is hearty and satisfying (rotisserie chicken works great if you’re short on time).
- Cooked White or Brown Rice: The foundation of the casserole, rice soaks up all the creamy flavors and adds comforting bulk.
- Broccoli Florets: Lightly steamed or blanched so they stay bright and retain a gentle crunch.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: The main source of melty, gooey flavor throughout the casserole.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, savory finish and depth you’ll swoon over.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: The key to a creamy, cohesive sauce—opt for a low-sodium version if preferred.
- Sour Cream: Brings a tangy creaminess that lifts the whole dish.
- Milk: Helps achieve the perfect saucy consistency without weighing things down.
- Garlic Powder: Delivers subtle warmth and savory undertones in every bite.
- Onion Powder: Infuses a gentle sweetness, rounding out the other flavors.
- Salt: Enhances and balances the dish—adjust to your taste!
- Black Pepper: Brings a gentle kick and depth to the casserole.
- Crushed Butter Crackers or Breadcrumbs (Optional): Adds an irresistible golden crunch if you enjoy a crispy topping.
- Butter (for Topping): Melts into the topping, helping it turn gloriously golden and delicious.
How to Make Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
First things first—get your oven preheated to 350°F so it’s nice and hot when the casserole is ready to bake. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to make sure nothing sticks and cleanup is a breeze later on.
Step 2: Mix Up the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken, fluffy rice, bright broccoli, both cheeses (cheddar and Parmesan), cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is lusciously melded and evenly combined—it’s okay if it looks a bit thick, the casserole will bake up creamy!
Step 3: Spread in the Baking Dish
Spoon the combined mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. This ensures that every portion of Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole bakes up with the perfect distribution of chicken, rice, broccoli, and that lovely cheesy sauce.
Step 4: Add the Crunchy Topping (Optional)
If you’re using the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs, mix them with melted butter until they’re well-coated, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top. This step is optional, but it adds a golden, crunchy layer that’s absolutely dreamy against the creamy filling.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide your casserole into the oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. By the end, the top will be bubbly, melty, and (if you went all-in with the topping) beautifully golden brown. Resist the urge to dig in right away—let it rest for 5 minutes so the casserole sets up and slices neatly.
How to Serve Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole
Garnishes
Give your Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole a pop of color and extra flavor with a handful of sliced green onions, a dusting of fresh parsley, or just a little extra sprinkle of cheddar if you’re feeling cheesy. They not only make the dish look inviting but bring the flavors up a notch too.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty enough to shine on its own, but it pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad, garlicky green beans, or warm dinner rolls. Choose sides that bring freshness or a little crunch to contrast the rich, cheesy texture of the main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole in individual ramekins for an elegant touch at gatherings. For weeknight efficiency, spoon it into meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches. If you want a family-style vibe, garnish the entire casserole with extra cheese and herbs before serving straight from the dish at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is a gift! Store cooled portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors only get better as they meld, making leftovers especially tasty the next day.
Freezing
This casserole is freezer-friendly: Just assemble and skip the topping, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, add your topping, and bake as directed—it couldn’t be easier to have homemade comfort food on hand whenever you need it.
Reheating
To reheat single servings, a quick zap in the microwave works wonders—just cover with a microwave-safe lid or wrap to lock in moisture. For larger portions, reheat in the oven at 325°F, covered in foil to prevent drying out, until hot throughout. Finish uncovered if you want to crisp up the top again.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken in this casserole?
Absolutely, rotisserie chicken is a huge time saver and adds fantastic flavor. Shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces and mix right in—Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is all about convenience and taste!
Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free condensed soup and gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs for the topping. Double-check all labels to be sure every ingredient suits your needs.
What other veggies work in this casserole?
While broccoli is classic, you can mix in peas, carrots, or sautéed mushrooms for even more veggie content. Just be sure any vegetables are cooked or steamed before adding them so they blend perfectly into the casserole.
Can I substitute the cheese?
Of course! Blend in jack, mozzarella, or Swiss for different cheesy flavors. Feel free to mix and match based on what’s in your fridge—Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is endlessly adaptable.
How do I make this recipe healthier?
For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cheese, low-fat sour cream, and a low-sodium, low-fat cream of chicken soup. You can also bump up the vegetables and use brown rice for extra fiber and nutrients.
Final Thoughts
If there’s ever a dish that brings everyone to the table with a smile, it’s Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight or planning ahead for the freezer, this recipe promises cheesy comfort in every bite. Give it a try and share the warmth—your family and friends will ask for it again and again!
Print
Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This comforting and easy-to-make Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is a delicious family dinner option. Loaded with tender chicken, fluffy rice, wholesome broccoli, and a creamy cheesy sauce, this casserole is the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Chicken Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets, lightly steamed or blanched
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping:
- 1/2 cup crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the chicken, rice, broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Add Topping: If desired, mix crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until hot, bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken and frozen broccoli for convenience.
- For a healthier option, consider using reduced-fat cheese, low-fat sour cream, and low-sodium soup.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
