Get ready to meet your new dinnertime hero: Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole. This comforting classic layers juicy chicken, tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and a dreamy, cheesy sauce all in one pan. It’s a family favorite that never lets you down—perfect for busy weeknights, cozy Sundays, or when you simply crave something warm and indulgent. The magic lies in how simple ingredients come together for melt-in-your-mouth results you can rely on, time and time again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is how the everyday ingredients become extraordinary when combined. Each item plays its part in delivering that unbeatable combo of flavor, texture, and irresistible gooeyness.
- Cooked white rice: This forms the base—fluffy and neutral, it soaks up all the goodness while adding a satisfying heartiness.
- Cooked chicken (shredded or cubed): Quick and protein-packed; rotisserie chicken is perfect for saving time here!
- Broccoli florets (steamed or blanched): Adds a pop of bright green color and a slight crunch to balance all that creamy richness.
- Cream of chicken soup: The secret to a luscious, savory sauce—opt for low-sodium if you wish to lighten things up.
- Sour cream: Brings a tangy creaminess that keeps the casserole from feeling too heavy.
- Milk: Loosens the sauce, ensuring every bite is perfectly moist.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Don’t skimp here! Divided for both inside the casserole and that irresistible golden top layer.
- Garlic powder: Adds subtle depth and a fragrant aroma.
- Onion powder: Gives that homey, savory undertone without the fuss of chopping onions.
- Salt: Just enough to highlight all the flavors working together.
- Black pepper: A gentle kick of warmth and balance to the creamy components.
- Crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs (optional): For those who crave texture, a crunchy topping is pure joy.
How to Make Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish
Start by cranking your oven up to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish—this simple step makes cleanup a breeze and guarantees that every cheesy bit will glide right out onto plates.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
Grab your biggest mixing bowl, because it’s time to bring together the heart of the Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole. Combine the cooked rice, chicken, steamed broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until every bite is coated in creamy, cheesy goodness—don’t be afraid to use your hands if the spoon just isn’t cutting it!
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Spoon the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to the edges. This is where all those flavors begin to meld, ensuring you’ll get a perfect bite every time. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese over the top, and if you’re feeling fancy or want a little crunch, scatter crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs across the cheese layer.
Step 4: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden
Slide your casserole into the oven (uncovered) and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbling, melty top with that just-right golden color. The cheese will form a glorious crispy crown, while the insides turn oozy and creamy—pure comfort food bliss.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once the Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is out of the oven, give it about 5 minutes to settle and cool slightly. This ensures you can serve neat squares and also helps flavors deepen. Get ready to scoop up the ultimate cheesy, savory goodness!
How to Serve Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
Garnishes
Dress up your Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, sliced green onions, or a dash of paprika for color. A drizzle of hot sauce can add a spicy kick for those who like things zippy.
Side Dishes
This casserole is practically a meal on its own, but it’s delightful with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies on the side. For extra heartiness, warm dinner rolls or garlic bread are perfect for scooping up every creamy bite.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting, try baking the casserole in individual ramekins for single servings or spoon it into hollowed-out bell peppers for a fun, nutritious twist. Leftovers also work beautifully as a filling for wraps or stuffed into baked potatoes for a second-day reinvention.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Let the casserole cool completely, then transfer individual portions or the entire dish (covered tightly) into airtight containers. The flavors often get even better overnight!
Freezing
This dish is a freezer’s dream. Assemble the casserole but pause before baking. Cover the unbaked dish with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed—just add a little extra time if it goes in cold.
Reheating
To reheat, you can pop single servings in the microwave (covered) for 2–3 minutes, or warm larger portions in a 350°F oven until heated through. If things look a bit dry, drizzle a splash of milk over the top before reheating for maximum creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken speeds up prep and adds fantastic flavor and juiciness to your Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole. Just shred or cube and mix it right in.
Are there any healthy swaps I can make?
Definitely. Try using brown rice or cooked quinoa for the base, swap in Greek yogurt for sour cream, and opt for low-fat cheese if you wish. Even light soups and whole-grain breadcrumbs make this comfort food a bit lighter without losing flavor.
What kind of cheese melts best for the topping?
Cheddar is a classic for its color and sharp flavor, but feel free to blend in Monterey Jack, Colby, or mozzarella for even stretchier, gooier results. Pre-shredded cheese works in a pinch, but shredding your own always melts better.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready, bake as directed—just add about 5 extra minutes if it goes into the oven cold.
What’s the best way to add more veggies?
Don’t hesitate to toss in peas, sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or even a handful of spinach to boost color and nutrition. Just cook or thaw extra veggies first to avoid watering down the casserole.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for that perfect crowd-pleasing meal, you can’t go wrong with Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole. It’s hearty, cheesy, and always satisfying—plus, it’s so easy, it practically cooks itself. Give it a try and watch smiles appear around your dinner table!
Print
Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a family dinner. Creamy and cheesy with tender chicken, rice, and broccoli, this casserole is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Rice Mixture:
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed or blanched)
Sauce:
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping:
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare Mixture: In a large bowl, combine rice, chicken, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, 1 cup cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Assemble: Spread the mixture in the baking dish. Top with remaining cheese and crushed crackers or breadcrumbs if using.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Substitute brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option.
- Use thawed and drained frozen broccoli for convenience.
- Enhance flavor with hot sauce or Dijon mustard.
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