Effortless Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe for Cozy Nights

Comfort food reaches new heights with this chicken broccoli rice casserole that promises to satisfy every hungry soul at the dinner table.

Weeknight meals don’t get much easier or more delicious than this hearty dish.

Tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and fluffy rice combine in a creamy, cheesy embrace that screams home-cooked goodness.

Every forkful delivers a perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and comforting carbs.

The golden, bubbling top hints at the delectable layers waiting beneath.

Generous portions make this casserole ideal for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers.

This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a meal everyone will request again and again.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Thaw and drain it completely before adding to the casserole to prevent excess moisture.

• Is it okay to substitute the cream of chicken soup?

Cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup work well as alternatives if you want to change the flavor profile.

• How can I make this dish healthier?

Use low-fat cheese, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and add more vegetables like diced carrots or spinach to boost nutrition.

• Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Standouts

• Whip Up a Wholesome Meal: This casserole packs incredible nutrition with protein-rich chicken, fiber-loaded broccoli, and comforting rice for a balanced dinner that satisfies everyone.
• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients like using rotisserie chicken, different cheeses, or adding extra vegetables to make this recipe perfectly suited to your family's taste preferences.
• Quick Weeknight Winner: Minimal prep work and straightforward mixing mean you can have a delicious, hearty meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly Comfort: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture, cheesy topping, and familiar flavors that make this dish an instant crowd-pleaser for any gathering.

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Essentials

• Chicken: Provides the protein base for this hearty casserole.
• Rice: Serves as the comforting starch foundation of the dish.
• Broccoli Florets: Adds nutritious green vegetables and a fresh texture to the casserole.

• Cream of Chicken Soup, Sour Cream, Milk: Create a rich and creamy sauce that binds the ingredients together.
• Cheddar Cheese: Offers a sharp, melty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the casserole.

• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, Pepper: Provide balanced and classic seasoning to the dish.
• Breadcrumbs, Melted Butter: Create a crispy, golden topping that adds crunch and richness to the casserole.

How To Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Fire up your oven to a cozy 350°F, getting it ready for a delicious comfort meal.

Step 2: Create The Flavor Blend

• Shredded chicken
• Cooked rice
• Broccoli florets
• Cream of chicken soup
• Sour cream
• Milk
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Mix everything together until well combined and looking deliciously creamy.

Step 3: Add Cheesy Goodness

Stir in most of the cheddar cheese, reserving some for topping later.

Step 4: Transfer To Baking Dish

Pour the entire mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading evenly.

Step 5: Cheese And Crunch Topping

Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top for extra melty deliciousness.

Step 6: Prepare Crispy Breadcrumb Layer

In a separate small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter until well coated.

Scatter the buttery breadcrumbs across the top of the casserole.

Step 7: Bake To Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.

Look for a bubbly, golden-topped casserole that’s calling your name.

Step 8: Rest And Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes, then dig in and enjoy!

Tips For Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Use two forks to pull apart warm, cooked chicken for easy, uniform shredding that blends smoothly into the casserole.
• Add extra vegetables like diced carrots or spinach to increase nutritional value and create more vibrant flavors.
• Mix in a little extra milk or broth if the mixture seems too thick to ensure a creamy, moist texture.
• Swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for a celiac-friendly version.
• Mix different cheese types like sharp cheddar and monterey jack for a more complex and rich cheesy taste.

Chicken Broccoli Rice Mix-Ups To Try

• Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Replace rice with riced cauliflower for a keto-friendly version that cuts carbohydrates while maintaining the creamy, cheesy texture.
• Vegetarian Protein Boost: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas, using vegetable cream soup to create a plant-based protein-packed casserole.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Use dairy-free cheese, coconut milk, and dairy-free cream soup to accommodate lactose-intolerant or vegan dietary needs.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour, ensuring those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy the dish.

Best Serving Ideas For Chicken Broccoli Rice

• Family Dinner Champion: Serve this hearty casserole as a complete meal with a fresh green salad for added nutrition and crunch.
• Potluck Superstar: Bring this dish to gatherings where comfort food is welcome, ensuring everyone gets a delicious, satisfying portion.
• Meal Prep Magic: Portion leftovers into individual containers for quick lunches during the week, perfect for busy professionals and students.
• Protein Power Boost: Top with crispy bacon bits or sliced almonds just before serving to add extra texture and flavor excitement.

Easy Storage For Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Always use clean utensils when transferring to prevent bacterial growth.
• Transfer casserole to freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze up to 3 months. Label container with date and contents.
• Thaw overnight in refrigerator. Preheat oven to 350°F. Cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove foil last 5 minutes for crispy topping.

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Hearty chicken broccoli rice casserole brings comfort and nostalgia to family dinner tables with its creamy, cheesy goodness. Packed with tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and perfectly seasoned rice, this one-dish meal promises satisfaction in every delicious bite you’ll savor.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded

Base Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or wild rice)
• 3 cups broccoli florets, steamed or blanched

Sauce and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cheese and Topping:

• 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare oven to 350°F, ensuring rack is positioned in center for even heating.
2. Combine shredded chicken, cooked rice, and broccoli florets in a spacious mixing vessel.
3. Incorporate cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk, whisking until ingredients form a smooth, cohesive blend.
4. Season mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, stirring thoroughly to distribute flavors evenly.
5. Fold in three-quarters of the cheddar cheese, creating a rich and creamy consistency.
6. Transfer the mixture into a generously greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it uniformly.
7. Scatter remaining cheese across the top, creating a golden, melted surface.
8. Toss breadcrumbs with melted butter, ensuring each crumb is thoroughly coated.
9. Sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs over the casserole, providing a crisp and textured topping.
10. Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until edges bubble and topping turns a delectable golden brown.
11. Remove from oven and allow casserole to rest for 5 minutes, enabling flavors to settle and making serving easier.

Notes

• Try different cheese varieties like Gruyère or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
• Swap white rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice to make the dish lower-carb and gluten-free.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to reduce calories and boost protein content.
• Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture variety.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 368 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 620 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 11 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 27 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg