Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole – Easy & Cheesy Recipe
This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish made with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, fluffy rice, and a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s an easy, one-dish meal perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or family gatherings. Made with simple ingredients, this baked casserole is loved by both kids and adults!
Equipment
- ✔️ 9x13-inch baking dish
- ✔ Large mixing bowl
- ✔ Medium saucepan (for cooking rice)
- ✔ Cutting board & knife
- ✔ Wooden spoon or spatula
- ✔️ Measuring cups & spoons
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients:
- ✅ 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced
- ✅ 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- ✅ 2 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen, thawed
- ✅ 1 can 10.5 oz cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup
- ✅ 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter version
- ✅ 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
- ✅ ½ cup milk for a smoother consistency
- ✅ ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ✅ ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ✅ ½ teaspoon salt
- ✅ ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ✅ ½ teaspoon paprika optional
- Crunchy Topping Optional:
- ✅ ½ cup panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
- ✅ 2 tablespoons butter melted
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Step 2: Cook the Rice and Chicken
- If you don’t have pre-cooked rice, cook 1 cup of uncooked rice according to package instructions.
- If using raw chicken, bake, boil, or sauté it until fully cooked, then shred or dice it. For a shortcut, use rotisserie chicken!
- Step 3: Prepare the Broccoli
- For fresh broccoli: Blanch it by boiling for 1-2 minutes, then drain and rinse with cold water to keep it bright and tender.
- For frozen broccoli: Thaw and drain well to remove excess moisture.
- Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- ✔ Cream of chicken (or mushroom) soup
- ✔ Sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- ✔ Milk
- ✔ Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika
- Mix well until smooth and creamy.
- Step 5: Combine Ingredients
- Add the cooked rice, chicken, and broccoli into the bowl with the creamy sauce.
- Stir well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Step 6: Transfer to the Baking Dish
- Pour the mixture into the greased 9x13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle ½ cup of shredded cheese on top.
- Step 7: Add the Crunchy Topping (Optional)
- Mix panko breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers) with melted butter.
- Sprinkle the mixture over the cheese layer for a crispy, golden topping.
- Step 8: Bake the Casserole
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- If you prefer an extra crispy topping, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.
- Step 9: Let It Rest & Serve
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or extra cheese, and enjoy!
Notes
Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Freezing Instructions: Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Leftovers: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Healthier Version: Use brown rice, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and reduced-fat cheese for a lighter meal.
Freezing Instructions: Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Leftovers: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Healthier Version: Use brown rice, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and reduced-fat cheese for a lighter meal.