Chicken and Broccoli Rice Casserole

Chicken and Broccoli Rice Casserole is the kind of comforting, hearty, and delicious dish that feels like home. It’s warm, creamy, rich in flavor, and full of wholesome ingredients like tender chicken, fluffy rice, and nutritious broccoli — all baked together in a velvety sauce and topped with melted cheese. This casserole is a family favorite, a weeknight dinner hero, and a meal-prep-friendly dish that tastes just as good (or even better) the next day.

This casserole beautifully combines convenience with nutrition. Whether you’re feeding kids, hosting guests, or simply craving comfort food, this dish delivers. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s one of those recipes that becomes a regular part of the rotation once you try it.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love making this Chicken and Broccoli Rice Casserole because it brings together simple ingredients and transforms them into something absolutely satisfying. The creamy sauce adds richness without being heavy, and the broccoli provides a refreshing balance while adding color and nutrients. The melty cheese topping creates the perfect finishing touch — gooey, golden, and irresistible.

It’s also incredibly flexible. You can use rotisserie chicken, leftover rice, frozen broccoli, and pantry staples — making it convenient and budget-friendly. Best of all, it requires only one baking dish and minimal cleanup.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This casserole is a must-try because it checks all the boxes:

✔ Comforting
✔ Nutritious
✔ Kid-friendly
✔ Make-ahead friendly
✔ Customizable

Whether you’re planning a quick dinner, a potluck dish, or meal prep lunches, this casserole is foolproof, satisfying, and universally loved.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35–40 minutes
• Total Time: 50–55 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories per Serving: ~420 calories
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American Comfort Food

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
• 2 ½ cups cooked rice (white or brown)*
• 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 tbsp butter or olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup or homemade equivalent
• ½ cup milk or heavy cream
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Cook Aromatics

In a skillet, heat butter or oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

Step 3: Prepare the Broccoli

• If using fresh broccoli: Steam 3–4 minutes until slightly tender.
• If using frozen broccoli: Thaw by running under warm water and pat dry.

Step 4: Mix the Sauce

In a large bowl, combine:

• Chicken broth
• Cream of chicken soup
• Milk
• Thyme
• Paprika
• Salt & pepper

Whisk until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add the following to the sauce bowl:

• Cooked rice
• Chicken
• Broccoli
• Sautéed onion and garlic
• ½ cup shredded cheese

Mix well until everything is evenly coated.

Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread mixture evenly inside.

Step 7: Add Topping

Sprinkle remaining cheese evenly across the top.

Step 8: Bake

Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes until hot, bubbly, and golden on top.

How to Serve

Serve warm with:

• A fresh green salad
• Garlic bread or rolls
• Steamed vegetables

Great for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy winter nights.

Recipe Tips

• Don’t overcook rice — slightly firm rice holds texture better.
• Rotisserie chicken works best for convenience and flavor.
• Cover with foil if cheese browns too quickly.
• Add seasoning gradually to avoid oversalting.

Variations

Healthier Version: Use brown rice, light cheese, and Greek yogurt instead of cream soup.
Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños, cayenne, or pepper jack cheese.
Protein Swap: Use turkey, ham, ground chicken, or chickpeas.
Extra Veggie Version: Add peas, carrots, spinach, or mushrooms.
Crunchy Topping: Add crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter on top.

Storage & Freezing

Refrigerator:

Store in airtight container for 3–4 days.

Freezing:

Fully assembled casserole (baked or unbaked) freezes well up to 2–3 months.

To reheat, thaw overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes.

Special Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch casserole dish
• Mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Measuring cups & spoons

FAQ

Q: Can I use uncooked rice in this recipe?
A: Not recommended unless adjusting liquid amounts — cooked rice gives best texture.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes — use dairy-free cheese and cream-free soup alternative.

Q: Can this be made ahead?
A: Yes — assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Conclusion

Chicken and Broccoli Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish — warm, filling, delicious, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re serving a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, its creamy texture, cheesy topping, and wholesome ingredients make it a reliable, crowd-pleasing favorite. With endless variations and excellent make-ahead ability, this casserole deserves a place in your regular recipe lineup.