Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole with Broccoli

why make this recipe

Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting meal that brings warmth to any dinner table. This dish combines the goodness of chicken, broccoli, and rice, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It is easy to make and perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep. The best part is that it is a one-dish meal, making cleanup a breeze.

Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole with Broccoli

how to make Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 2 cups cooked rice
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese for topping

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and 2 cups of cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
  5. Sprinkle the top with the additional 1/2 cup of shredded cheese.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Serve hot and enjoy!

how to serve Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole

This casserole is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread to make a complete meal. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven for the best cheesy experience!

how to store Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole

To store this casserole, let it cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Wrap individual portions or the whole casserole in heavy-duty foil or place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

tips to make Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole

  • Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option.
  • Feel free to swap out the broccoli for another vegetable like cauliflower or spinach.
  • Adjust the cheese according to your taste; adding more cheddar or trying a mix of cheeses can enhance the flavor.
  • For a crispy topping, broil it for the last few minutes of baking.

variation

You can make this casserole vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead of milk. Add extra veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or corn for added flavor and nutrition.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well as a substitute. Just thaw and drain it before mixing it into the casserole.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble it the night before and keep it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer, you can replace cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup or a homemade creamy base using cream cheese and chicken broth.

Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole

A comforting one-dish meal that combines chicken, broccoli, and rice in a creamy, cheesy sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners and family gatherings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut.
  • 2 cups cooked rice
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets Can substitute with frozen broccoli; just thaw and drain.
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup Can replace with cream of mushroom soup or a homemade base.
  • 1 cup milk Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Adjust according to taste; feel free to mix cheeses.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese for topping

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and 2 cups of cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  • Sprinkle the top with the additional 1/2 cup of shredded cheese.

Baking

  • Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving

  • Serve hot and enjoy! This casserole is delicious on its own, but can also be paired with a side salad or crusty bread.

Notes

For a crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last few minutes of baking. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Keyword Broccoli Rice Casserole, Casserole, Cheesy Chicken, easy dinner, One-Dish Meal

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