If you’re craving comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you have to try this Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe. It blends tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant broccoli all smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce that bakes to bubbly perfection. This casserole is the kind of dish that satisfies the soul, is simple to make, and delivers big on flavor—whether it’s for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, making the dish not only tasty but balanced in texture and color. From the creamy soup base that adds moisture to the sharp cheeses that bring depth, these simple staples come together effortlessly to create a comforting meal.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Provides hearty protein and a satisfying bite.
- 2 cups cooked white rice: Acts as the fluffy and neutral base that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed: Adds vibrant color, nutrition, and a slight crunch.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Offers that classic sharp and melty cheese flavor.
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese: Gives a luscious, gooey stretchiness to the casserole.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Creates the creamy, comforting sauce that holds everything together.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the sauce for a perfectly smooth texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds warm, savory notes that awaken the taste buds.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic with a subtle sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle kick of heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky depth and lovely color to the topping.
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted: Binds the crispy topping and adds richness.
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (optional, for topping): Offers a crunchy golden crust to contrast the creamy inside.
How to Make Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Get Your Oven and Dish Ready
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish ensures that your casserole won’t stick, making for easy serving and cleanup later.
Step 2: Combine the Magic Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, cooked white rice, steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir everything until it’s evenly blended and the cheese starts to melt slightly into the creamy mixture.
Step 3: Transfer and Spread Evenly
Pour this delicious mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula. This ensures that every bite will have a perfect balance of chicken, broccoli, rice, and cheesy sauce.
Step 4: Add the Topping
Mix the melted butter with your choice of crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. This optional step creates a golden, crunchy crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy casserole below.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop your casserole into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the topping is that perfect shade of golden brown. The aroma wafting from the oven will have you counting down the minutes!
Step 6: Cool, Serve, and Enjoy!
Once baked, let your Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe cool for a few minutes to set. Then scoop it onto plates and enjoy the comforting flavors with every cheesy, tender bite.
How to Serve Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions adds a fresh burst of color and flavor. You can also add a spoonful of sour cream or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little extra zing or creaminess on top.
Side Dishes
This casserole is pretty much a complete meal, but pairing it with a crisp garden salad or some roasted vegetables can add contrast and brightness to the plate. For a lighter side, a simple cucumber and tomato salad lightly dressed with lemon juice works wonders.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, bake individual servings of this casserole in ramekins and serve them as charming personal-sized portions. You can also layer the casserole inside hollowed-out bell peppers before baking for an eye-catching presentation that’s equally tasty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for quick lunches or dinners the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. If unbaked, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. If baked, cool completely before wrapping and freezing in a suitable container.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual servings on medium power to keep the cheese from overcooking and drying out.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice works well and adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber. Just be sure it’s fully cooked and cooled before mixing into the casserole to maintain the right texture.
Is it okay to use fresh broccoli instead of frozen or canned?
Yes! Fresh broccoli is perfect when steamed until just tender. It provides a nice crunch and fresher taste compared to canned options. Avoid overcooking so it stays bright and flavorful.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely. Simply substitute the chicken with cooked plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu and use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken. The cheeses and broccoli will still give wonderful flavor and texture.
What can I use if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
You can make a quick homemade white sauce by combining butter, flour, milk, and seasonings, or substitute with cream of mushroom soup for a similar creamy effect with a different flavor profile.
How can I make the topping gluten-free?
Use gluten-free crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs, or omit the topping entirely. For extra crunch, chopped nuts or seeds work well and add an interesting texture.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that balances comfort and nutrition in every bite. It’s straightforward enough for busy weeknights yet hearty enough to feel like a special meal. I encourage you to give it a try, and watch it become a beloved staple around your table!
Print
Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly dish that combines tender shredded chicken, fluffy white rice, nutritious steamed broccoli, and a blend of melty cheeses in a creamy sauce. Topped with a buttery, crunchy crumb layer, it bakes to golden perfection in under 40 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Topping
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, cooked white rice, steamed broccoli florets, shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir thoroughly to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Transfer Mixture: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly to create a uniform casserole layer.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this buttery topping evenly over the casserole for a crispy, golden finish.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your warm, cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole!
Notes
- You can substitute cooked turkey for chicken if preferred.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs for the topping.
- If you want an extra cheesy top, sprinkle additional cheddar cheese before baking.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Feel free to add herbs like thyme or parsley for added flavor.
