Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole Recipe

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Craving something cozy, cheesy, and filling that comes together in one baking dish? This Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole is a go-to family dinner that nails all the comfort food checkboxes. With tender chicken, creamy rice, crisp-tender broccoli, and a golden blanket of bubbling cheddar, this dish is the weeknight dinner upgrade you didn’t know you needed.

Perfect for make-ahead meals or clearing out leftovers, this casserole delivers hearty satisfaction without much effort. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want seconds (and thirds). Even picky eaters can’t resist the creamy cheese pull that ties everything together.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make the Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole as smooth as the cheese topping, you’ll need a few key kitchen tools:

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan – This is essential for sautéing your onions, garlic, and pre-cooking chicken (if not using leftovers). It brings flavor to life.
• Medium Saucepan – To make the creamy sauce that binds the casserole. A non-stick option makes cleanup easier.
• Mixing Bowls – Use one large bowl to combine your rice, chicken, broccoli, and sauce thoroughly.
• Casserole Dish (9×13-inch) – This is your final baking vessel. Ceramic or glass dishes provide even heat distribution and make for a beautiful presentation.
• Foil & Baking Sheet (Optional) – Great for catching any bubbling over in the oven and for even cooking.

Having these tools ready ensures that your prep and bake flow without any hiccups. A little organization upfront makes this cozy classic totally stress-free.

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Ingredients for the Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole

Each ingredient in this dish plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. Here’s what you need:

• Cooked Chicken – The protein foundation. Rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken works great here.
• Cooked Rice – Acts as the hearty base and absorbs all the creamy, cheesy goodness.
• Fresh or Frozen Broccoli Florets – Adds color, nutrients, and a slight crunch to contrast the creamy texture.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – The star of the show. It melts into the sauce and gives that irresistible golden topping.
• Cream of Chicken Soup – For creaminess and umami depth. You can use homemade or canned.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt – Adds tang and creaminess to balance the richness.
• Onion & Garlic – Sautéed for aromatic depth. A little goes a long way.
• Butter or Olive Oil – Needed for the sauté and to create a rich base for the sauce.
• Salt, Pepper, and Optional Paprika – Basic seasoning with a smoky kick if desired.

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How To Make the Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by pre-cooking your rice and chopping your broccoli into small florets. If using fresh broccoli, blanch it in boiling water for 2 minutes, then shock in cold water to maintain color and texture. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, melt butter or heat oil. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Base

Stir in the cream of chicken soup and sour cream (or Greek yogurt) to the skillet. Mix well until warm and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional paprika.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, blanched broccoli, and the creamy sauce. Stir until evenly coated.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Smooth the top and generously sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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Serving and Storing This Cheesy Casserole Delight

This Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole is best served warm, straight from the oven when the cheese is still melty and golden. Pair it with a crisp side salad or a simple vinaigrette-dressed slaw to balance the richness.

Leftovers? Even better the next day. Store any remaining casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (covered with foil) or use the microwave for a quicker option. For freezing, portion it out into individual servings, wrap well, and freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight and reheat for a comforting meal anytime.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this casserole ahead of time?

You can fully assemble the casserole (without baking), cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temp for 20 minutes and bake as directed.

Can I substitute brown rice or quinoa?

Yes, both make great swaps. Just ensure they are fully cooked and not overly moist to maintain the right casserole consistency.

What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

A homemade version made from butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk works well. You can also use cream of mushroom or cream of celery for variation.

Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Absolutely. Omit the chicken and add more broccoli or other hearty veggies like mushrooms or cauliflower.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Make sure your creamy base is well combined and moist. Also, don’t overbake—cover with foil halfway if it starts to brown too quickly.

Can I add extra spices or herbs?

Totally! A pinch of thyme, a dash of cayenne, or some Italian seasoning can bring an extra depth of flavor.

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Want More Chicken Casserole Ideas?

If you’re into baked comfort food loaded with creamy sauces and golden cheese toppings, you might enjoy exploring these next:

Try the bold and spicy twist of the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe, a perfect weeknight bake with serious attitude.

Or go with the ultra-easy and family-friendly Pepperoni Pizza Casserole for a fun twist on pizza night.

Need another broccoli-forward option? Check out the Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, which strips things down to the essentials while keeping the same comforting vibe.

For a different protein take, the Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti might hit the spot with its gooey, slow-cooked goodness.

And if you’re short on time but not on appetite, the One-Pan Smoky Spicy Chicken Rice Bake delivers on bold flavor without a pile of dishes.

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Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your easy dinners board for next time. Just click the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you swap in cauliflower? Try a spicy cheese? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how these casserole adventures unfold.

For more daily recipes, check out my Pinterest at LadyPlate on Pinterest.

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