If there’s ever been a go-to recipe for busy nights, comforting Sunday suppers, or potlucks that need a guaranteed hit, it’s Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole. It’s creamy, cheesy, loaded with tender chicken, steamy broccoli, and perfectly fluffy rice all baked together in a hug of savory flavor. From the crispy, golden-brown topping to the way each spoonful melds nostalgia with pure comfort, this is the kind of casserole you’ll make on repeat. Let me show you just how simple it is to bring this heartwarming classic to your table!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is that the ingredient list is simple, but every item punches above its weight in the flavor department. Here’s the lineup—each one plays a key role in making this casserole creamy, cheesy, and totally irresistible.
- Cooked White Rice: This is the creamy, hearty backbone of the casserole and a fantastic way to use up leftover rice.
- Cooked and Shredded Chicken Breast: Tender, juicy shredded chicken soaks up all the flavors while adding satisfying protein.
- Chopped Broccoli Florets (steamed): Vibrant broccoli adds color, texture, and a little veggie boost to every bite.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: The classic creamy base that ties everything together; you can use homemade or canned.
- Sour Cream: Offers tang and richness, making the casserole extra luscious.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (plus more for topping): Brings ooey-gooey melt and perfect sharpness; more cheese on top means more golden crust.
- Milk: Thins out the casserole just enough for perfect creaminess without losing body.
- Garlic Powder: Adds mellow garlic undertones that boost every other flavor in the dish.
- Onion Powder: Melds into the background, rounding out the savoriness with subtle onion notes.
- Salt and Black Pepper: For seasoning; adjust to taste to make every ingredient shine.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkled on top, it creates an irresistible salty, cheesy bite and beautifully browns in the oven.
- Crushed Ritz Crackers or Breadcrumbs (optional topping): Crushed crackers or breadcrumbs are optional but add phenomenal crunch!
- Melted Butter (if using topping): Mix with your cracker topping for that buttery, golden finish we all love.
How to Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a light greasing with butter or cooking spray. This first step ensures your casserole comes out effortlessly with all those luscious edges intact. Having everything prepped means assembly is a breeze!
Step 2: Mix the Casserole Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked rice, shredded chicken, and steamed broccoli. Add in the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, plus a hit of salt and black pepper. Give it all a good stir—don’t be afraid to really mix! You want every grain of rice and every piece of broccoli to be coated in that creamy, cheesy goodness, making each bite perfectly balanced.
Step 3: Assemble in the Baking Dish
Transfer your mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. This helps the casserole cook uniformly, so no one misses out on any of the delicious cheesy mix. Press it gently so it settles nicely, but don’t compact it too tightly!
Step 4: Add the Crunch and Cheese
If you’re a crunch fan (I certainly am!), stir together your crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle this tantalizing mixture over the casserole. Finish with a generous handful of extra cheddar and the Parmesan cheese. This double-cheese, crispy topping is what takes Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole from tasty to totally crave-worthy.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide the dish uncovered into your preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly, the top is golden brown, and the kitchen is filled with that irresistible homey aroma. Let it cool for just a few minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set for easy scooping.
How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives does wonders here. Not only does it add a gorgeous burst of green, but those little pops of freshness brighten every forkful. For a little zing, try a squeeze of lemon juice or even a dusting of paprika just before serving. These simple garnishes make your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole look as vibrant as it tastes!
Side Dishes
Although Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a meal in itself, pairing it with the right sides can turn an ordinary dinner into something extra special. A crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette or some roasted carrots or asparagus make perfect companions. If you’re feeding a bigger crowd (or just extra-hungry folks!), some warm crusty bread is wonderful for sopping up every last bit of creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Put a spin on presentation by scooping the casserole into ramekins for individual servings—super cute for brunches or even holiday spreads. Or, for a family-style twist, offer toppings like crispy fried onions, chopped scallions, or even a drizzle of hot sauce at the table so everyone can customize their plate. Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole loves a little creativity!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole stores beautifully, making it a meal prep superstar. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer leftovers into an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld and deepen, so leftovers often taste even better!
Freezing
If you’d like to freeze some or all of your casserole, assemble it in a freezer-safe dish but hold off on baking. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, add your crunchy topping, and bake as directed—just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if it’s still chilly in the middle.
Reheating
To reheat, you can pop individual portions in the microwave (cover to avoid splatters) or warm the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through. If you want the topping to crisp up again, uncover it for the last 5–10 minutes. Add a splash of milk or a sprinkle of extra cheese if it looks a bit dry after chilling.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie or leftover chicken in Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken—light or dark meat—works perfectly. Just shred or chop, and fold it in as directed. It’s a smart shortcut that shaves even more time off the prep.
Is it okay to use brown rice or a different grain instead of white rice?
Yes! Brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice can substitute for white rice. Just make sure your grain of choice is cooked before mixing it in for the best consistency.
Can I make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole vegetarian?
You sure can! Swap in chickpeas or white beans for the chicken, use vegetable broth-based cream soup, and follow the same instructions. It’ll still be comforting and hearty—even in its veggie version.
How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Simply use a gluten-free condensed soup for the base, and substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs or crackers for the topping. Double-check that all your ingredients are certified gluten-free, and you’re set.
What’s the best way to prep this casserole ahead for a party?
Assemble everything except the crispy topping, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. When you’re ready to bake, add the topping and pop it in the oven. This makes Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole party-ready and perfectly convenient.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is pure, old-school comfort with a modern twist—easy, customizable, and always crowd-pleasing. I hope you give it a try soon and that it becomes a new favorite in your own dinner rotation. Gather your people and dig in!
Print
Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Creamy and comforting, this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a satisfying one-dish meal that the whole family will love. Tender chicken, fluffy rice, and crisp broccoli are baked in a cheesy sauce until bubbly and golden brown.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
- 2 cups chopped broccoli florets (steamed)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (optional)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (if using topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine rice, chicken, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread Mixture: Spread the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Add Toppings: If using, mix crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole. Top with additional cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until hot, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with homemade or cream of mushroom.
- Frozen broccoli can be used—just thaw and drain before adding.
- For extra flavor, add paprika or hot sauce.
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