Name: Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups 400 g cooked white or brown rice; 2 cups 300 g cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great); 2 cups 200 g broccoli florets, steamed or blanched; 1 can (10.5 oz / 298 g condensed cream of chicken soup); 1/2 cup 120 ml milk; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper (to taste); 1 1/2 cups 150 g shredded cheddar cheese, divided

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When it comes to easy weeknight dinners that the whole family will love, few recipes hit the spot like a Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole. This Creamy Comfort Casserole is packed with tender chicken, creamy cheese, and nutrient-rich broccoli, making it a wholesome and hearty dish perfect for busy days. Whether you’re meal prepping or whipping up a last-minute dinner, this recipe is a game-changer.

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole recipe is a standout Creamy Comfort Casserole:

Quick Prep: Minimal effort, ideal for busy evenings.
Balanced Meal: Combines protein, veggies, and grains in one dish.
Family Favorite: Loved by kids and adults for its cheesy goodness.
Flexible: Easily customized to suit tastes or diets.
I made this for a weeknight meal, and it was the ultimate Creamy Comfort Casserole hit!

Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole (serves 6):

2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, thawed if frozen)
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
1 cup milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

Ingredient Tips:

Rice: Brown rice adds fiber; white rice is softer. Pre-cook for ease.
Chicken: Rotisserie or leftover chicken saves time; shred evenly.
Broccoli: Fresh for firmness; frozen for convenience, drained well.
Soup: Low-sodium cream of chicken soup controls saltiness.
Equipment: 9×13-inch baking dish, large bowl, spatula.

Directions for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Let’s create this hearty Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole!

Preheat and Prep

I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. I ensure 2 cups rice, 2 cups shredded chicken, and 2 cups broccoli florets are cooked and ready.

Mix the Base

In a large bowl, I combine 2 cups cooked rice, 2 cups shredded chicken, 2 cups broccoli, 1 can cream of chicken soup, 1 cup milk, 1 tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, and 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese. I season with salt and pepper, mixing until well blended for a cohesive Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole.

Assemble Casserole

I spread the mixture evenly into the greased baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Top with Cheese

I sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole, ensuring an even, melty topping.

Bake and Serve

I bake for 25–30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. I let the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving warm.

Nutrition

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: ~450 kcal per serving
Macros per Serving: 40g carbs, 25g protein, 20g fat, 3g fiber

Variations

Try these twists on Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole:

Cheese Swap: Use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for variety.
Grain Swap: Substitute quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Veggie Boost: Add 1 cup diced carrots or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle ½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking.
Light Version: Use low-fat cheese, skim milk, and low-sodium soup.

Storage

I store Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, cooling completely before sealing to avoid condensation. For freezing, I assemble the unbaked casserole in a freezer-safe dish, wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months; I thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. To reheat, I warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, covered with foil, or microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes, stirring midway. For stovetop reheating, I use low heat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Serving Ideas

Make your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole a star Creamy Comfort Casserole:

Classic: Serve as a Creamy Comfort Casserole with a green salad.
Garnish: Sprinkle chopped parsley or paprika for color and flavor.
Pairing: Enjoy with roasted asparagus, steamed carrots, or crusty bread.
Presentation: Scoop into bowls or serve family-style for warmth.
Occasion: Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Yes, you can! Dice raw chicken into small pieces, season lightly, and sauté until fully cooked before adding it to the casserole mix.

How can I make this casserole healthier?
Use brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber, substitute low-fat cheese and milk, and opt for a low-sodium or homemade cream of chicken soup. You can also increase the broccoli portion for more veggies.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and store in the refrigerator. Bake it when you’re ready to serve, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
You can make a homemade version by whisking together 2 tablespoons of butter, 2 tablespoons of flour, 1 cup of chicken broth, and 1 cup of milk over medium heat until thickened. This gives you a fresher, preservative-free option.

Can I use frozen broccoli without thawing?
Yes, but I recommend thawing and draining frozen broccoli to avoid excess water in the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole. If using straight from the freezer, extend baking time by 5 minutes.

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Conclusion

When it comes to easy weeknight dinners that the whole family will love, few recipes hit the spot like a Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole. This Creamy Comfort Casserole is a fast, flavor-packed dinner that checks all the boxes: wholesome, comforting, and incredibly satisfying. Serve it up hot, and enjoy the smiles around the table!