The Ultimate Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

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Few dishes offer the same level of warmth, comfort, and heartiness as chicken broccoli rice casserole. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, delivering a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

Chicken broccoli rice casserole combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, fresh broccoli, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce, all baked together to golden perfection. With a bubbly, melted cheese topping and layers of flavor in every bite, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner or a make-ahead meal, this casserole is a fantastic choice. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best chicken broccoli rice casserole recipe, including ingredient variations, storage tips, and expert cooking techniques to ensure your casserole turns out perfect every time.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

1. Easy to Make

With simple ingredients and a quick prep time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.

2. One-Pan Meal

A complete meal with protein, veggies, and carbs all in one dish, making cleanup a breeze.

3. Creamy & Cheesy Goodness

Made with cheddar, mozzarella, and a velvety cheese sauce, this casserole is rich and comforting.

4. Customizable & Versatile

You can modify this chicken broccoli rice casserole by adding different cheeses, using brown rice, or incorporating additional vegetables.

5. Great for Meal Prep & Leftovers

This dish reheats beautifully, making it ideal for batch cooking and storing for later.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Casserole:

• 2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie or grilled chicken works well)
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed and drained)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken or mushroom soup
• 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and slight smokiness)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
• 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping)
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

Step 2: Cook the Rice and Chicken

• Cook the rice according to the package instructions.
• If using raw chicken, cook and shred it before adding it to the casserole.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the cream of chicken (or mushroom) soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
3. Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted into a smooth sauce.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, and fresh broccoli.
2. Pour the cheese sauce over the mixture and stir until evenly coated.
3. Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish.
4. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup mozzarella (or Monterey Jack) cheese over the top.
5. If desired, mix the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with a little melted butter and sprinkle on top for a crispy finish.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley and enjoy!

Expert Tips for the Best Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Use rotisserie chicken for added flavor and convenience.
• For extra creaminess, add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the cheese sauce.
• Make it healthier by using Greek yogurt instead of cream soup.
• Swap the rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Add more veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Double the recipe and freeze a portion for an easy make-ahead meal.

What to Serve with Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

This chicken broccoli rice casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with:

• Garlic Bread – Perfect for scooping up the cheesy goodness.
• Caesar Salad – Adds a refreshing contrast to the richness.
• Steamed Green Beans – A light and healthy side dish.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts – A great way to add more greens.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigeration:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual portions.

Freezing:

• Assemble the casserole but do not bake.
• Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
• When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, store in the fridge, and bake when ready.

Can I Use Frozen Broccoli?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.

What’s the Best Cheese for This Casserole?

Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even Gruyère work beautifully.

Can I Add a Protein Boost?

Yes! Try adding cooked bacon, turkey, or sausage for extra protein and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This chicken broccoli rice casserole is the ultimate comfort food, delivering cheesy, creamy, and savory goodness in every bite. It’s easy to make, freezer-friendly, and completely customizable to suit your taste preferences.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd, this chicken broccoli rice casserole is guaranteed to be a hit! Try it today and enjoy a warm, hearty meal with your loved ones

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