Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

If you’re in the mood for cozy comfort food that feels like a big, warm hug by the forkful, then you absolutely must try Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole. This family favorite layers tender chicken, perfectly steamed broccoli, fluffy rice, and gooey cheddar cheese in a creamy sauce that’s pure nostalgic bliss. It’s ridiculously simple to throw together, deeply satisfying, and destined to become a weeknight staple in your own kitchen.

Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole starts with simple, familiar ingredients you might already have in your kitchen. Each plays a starring role, adding flavor, texture, color, or that craveable cheesy finish everyone loves.

Cooked white rice: Fluffy and mild, rice soaks up every cheesy, savory drop of the sauce.
Cooked and shredded chicken breast: Juicy, lean chicken adds protein and substance—grab rotisserie for a shortcut!
Broccoli florets (steamed until tender): Steamed just right, broccoli brings a pop of color and a wholesome crunch.
Condensed cream of chicken soup: The creamy secret that ties this casserole together, giving it a rich, savory base.
Sour cream: Adds tang and luscious creaminess, so every bite melts in your mouth.
Milk: Lightens the sauce to the perfect consistency—regular or low-fat both work brilliantly.
Garlic powder: A little bit goes a long way in boosting the savory flavor profile.
Onion powder: Rounds out the aromatics and adds depth without needing to chop any onions.
Salt: Essential for making all the other flavors shine.
Black pepper: A gentle peppery heat that balances the rich, creamy cheese.
Shredded cheddar cheese (divided): The heart of the dish—a blend of gooey, melty cheese inside and a golden blanket on top.
Olive oil or melted butter (for greasing): Ensures nothing sticks and adds another small layer of flavor.

How to Make Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or melted butter for easy scooping and effortless cleanup later. This helps the cheesy edges bubble up without sticking—and who doesn’t love those crispy corners?

Step 2: Mix Up the Filling

In a large bowl, combine your cooked rice, shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and one cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until the mixture is creamy and the ingredients are evenly distributed—don’t hesitate to get in there with a sturdy spoon!

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the cheesy, savory mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly to reach all four corners. Sprinkle the remaining half cup of cheddar cheese across the top for that irresistible golden crust that sets Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole apart.

Step 4: Bake to Bubble and Gold

Slide your casserole into the oven (middle rack, if possible) and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. Watch for bubbling edges and a golden, melted cheese top—your kitchen will smell incredible! When ready, let it cool for about 5 minutes before you dig in so everything sets and slicing is a breeze.

How to Serve Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole

Garnishes

Give your hot-from-the-oven casserole a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. A pinch of extra black pepper or even a dash of hot sauce on individual servings can add a personal kick—tiny touches that make Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole even more inviting.

Side Dishes

This casserole is rich and hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or some buttery garlic bread. If you want to round out the meal, serve it with a simple tomato and cucumber salad or roasted carrots for extra color and crunch on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress, scoop the Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole into individual ramekins for a restaurant-worthy presentation, or line the dish with parchment before baking and lift out the casserole for clean, sliceable squares. It also makes a great potluck dish—just bring it in the baking pan and watch it disappear!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole keeps beautifully in the fridge. Simply cover the casserole dish tightly with foil or transfer slices into airtight containers. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to four days, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Freezing

This casserole is freezer-friendly for batch cooking or busy weeknights! Cool completely, then wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil. You can freeze the whole casserole or individual portions for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, simply pop a portion in the microwave until piping hot, or warm larger amounts in a 350°F oven (covered with foil) for 20–25 minutes. Add a sprinkle of fresh cheese on top if you like—it’ll melt and revive that “just-baked” finish every time.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice or cooked quinoa are delicious, wholesome swaps that bring a bit more fiber and a slightly nutty flavor to Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole. Just be sure to cook them before adding.

What’s the best kind of chicken for this casserole?

Leftover roast chicken or a store-bought rotisserie chicken makes this recipe extra easy, but any cooked and shredded chicken breast or thigh will work just fine. Aim for about two cups.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the chicken with chickpeas or a plant-based chicken substitute and use condensed cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken for a hearty, meatless version that still delivers all that creamy, cheesy comfort.

How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too dry?

Be sure to measure your cooked rice and not overbake the casserole. Keeping it covered with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking can also help retain moisture, though the uncovered method gives a superior cheesy crust on top!

Can I add other veggies?

Definitely. Try adding steamed cauliflower, sautéed bell peppers, or peas for extra color and variety. Just make sure any added vegetables are cooked and drained to avoid watering down the Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something about Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole that makes you want to cozy up and stay awhile—it’s classic comfort food at its best! I hope you give this recipe a try and see just how easy (and delicious) homemade happiness can be. Don’t be surprised when everyone asks for seconds!

Kimberly