Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, Chicken Casserole Recipe

Comforting Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, Chicken Casserole Recipe

Comfort arrives with this mouthwatering broccoli rice cheese chicken casserole that promises pure satisfaction.

Weeknight dinners demand simple yet delicious solutions for hungry families.

Creamy textures and hearty ingredients combine in a single skillet to create magic.

Home cooks appreciate recipes that deliver maximum flavor without complicated techniques.

Cheesy goodness melts perfectly around tender chicken and vibrant green broccoli florets.

Nutritious and filling, this casserole checks all the boxes for a crowd-pleasing meal.

You’ll want to bookmark this recipe for your next family gathering.

Dig in and savor every delectable bite of this comforting classic.

How To Put Together Broccoli Rice Cheese Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 375°F and give a quick spray of cooking oil to a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Cook Perfect Rice

Prepare white rice following package directions, aiming for a fluffy texture that’s slightly undercooked.

Step 3: Prepare Chicken

  • Chicken breasts
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Garlic powder

Slice chicken into neat bite-sized cubes and season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 4: Sizzle The Chicken

Toss chicken into a hot skillet over medium-high heat, cooking until golden and completely done, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 5: Chop Vegetables

Break down broccoli florets and onions into small, uniform pieces for even cooking and distribution.

Step 6: Create Creamy Base

  • Cream of chicken soup
  • Milk
  • Sour cream

Whisk soup, milk, and sour cream in a large bowl until silky smooth.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients

Gently fold rice, chicken, broccoli, and onions into the creamy mixture, ensuring everything gets coated.

Step 8: Fill Baking Dish

Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 9: Add Cheesy Layer

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese across the entire casserole surface.

Step 10: Create Crunchy Topping

  • Breadcrumbs
  • Melted butter

Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter, then scatter the crumb topping over the cheese layer.

Step 11: Bake To Perfection

Slide the casserole into the oven, baking for 25-30 minutes until the top turns golden and edges start bubbling.

Step 12: Rest And Serve

Pull the casserole out and let it rest 5-10 minutes, allowing it to set and cool slightly before diving in.

Pro Tips For Broccoli Rice Cheese Chicken Casserole

  • Rice Perfection: Slightly undercook rice to prevent mushiness and maintain ideal texture during baking.
  • Chicken Browning Technique: Sauté chicken at medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes to achieve golden color and ensure complete cooking.
  • Consistent Chopping Strategy: Cut broccoli and onions into uniform small pieces for even distribution and balanced flavor in every bite.
  • Creamy Mixture Mastery: Whisk soup, milk, and sour cream until completely smooth to create a luxurious binding sauce for the casserole.
  • Topping Crunch Hack: Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter for a crispy, golden-brown layer that adds delightful texture to the dish.

Ways To Switch Up Broccoli Rice Cheese Chicken Casserole

  • Gluten-Free Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole: Replace regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers for celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals.
  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Edition: Swap white rice with riced cauliflower to reduce carbohydrate content and create a keto-friendly alternative.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use coconut milk instead of dairy milk, dairy-free cheese substitute, and dairy-free cream of chicken soup for lactose-intolerant individuals.
  • Vegetarian Rice Casserole: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas, using vegetable broth and plant-based cream of mushroom soup for a meat-free version.

Great Pairings For Broccoli Rice Cheese Chicken Casserole

  • Enhance Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Pairings
  • Refresh with Crisp Salad: Toss a light mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the casserole's creamy richness and add brightness to the meal.
  • Complement with Chardonnay: Select a buttery, medium-bodied Chardonnay that matches the dish's creamy texture and balances the cheesy, savory flavors with its subtle oak notes.
  • Serve Roasted Garlic Bread: Prepare crusty garlic bread to soak up the casserole's delicious sauce, providing a crunchy contrast to the soft, creamy casserole layers.

How To Store Broccoli Rice Cheese Chicken Casserole

  • Transfer leftovers to an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Keep the casserole's texture by avoiding multiple reheating cycles.
  • Wrap the casserole securely in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Label container with date to track freshness. Prevent freezer burn by removing excess air from wrapping.
  • Place individual portions on microwave-safe plate. Cover with damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F.

FAQs For Broccoli Rice Cheese Chicken Casserole

  • Can I use frozen chicken instead of fresh?

Yes, thaw frozen chicken completely and pat dry before cubing and seasoning to ensure proper cooking and prevent excess moisture.

  • Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

  • How can I make this dish healthier?

Use low-fat cream of chicken soup, reduced-fat sour cream, and part-skim cheddar cheese to cut down on calories without sacrificing flavor.

  • Can I substitute the broccoli with another vegetable?

Definitely! Cauliflower, green beans, or mixed vegetables work great as alternatives to broccoli in this versatile casserole recipe.

Why Broccoli Rice Cheese Chicken Casserole Feeds The Soul

  • Tackle Weeknight Dinners: This chicken and rice casserole conquers busy evenings with minimal prep and maximum flavor, making it a go-to solution for tired cooks seeking a hearty meal.
  • Create Family Comfort: Packed with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and nutritious broccoli, this dish brings everyone together around the table with its warm, satisfying appeal.
  • Master One-Dish Convenience: Streamline your cooking process by combining protein, vegetables, and starch in a single baking dish, reducing cleanup and simplifying meal preparation.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients or add personal touches like different cheeses, vegetables, or seasonings to make this recipe uniquely yours while maintaining its core deliciousness.

What You’ll Need For Broccoli Rice Cheese Chicken Casserole

For the Base:
  • White Rice: A fluffy foundation that provides hearty texture and substance to the casserole.
  • Chicken Breasts: Protein-rich meat that adds lean, tender bites to the dish.
For the Vegetables:
  • Broccoli Florets, Onions: Fresh vegetables that contribute nutritious crunch and balanced flavor to the casserole.
For the Creamy Mixture:
  • Cream of Chicken Soup: A smooth base that creates rich, comforting consistency.
  • Milk: Helps blend ingredients and adds creamy smoothness.
  • Sour Cream: Provides tangy depth and additional richness to the sauce.
For the Topping:
  • Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheese that melts beautifully and adds golden, savory coverage.
  • Breadcrumbs: Creates a crispy, crunchy exterior layer.
  • Butter: Helps toast breadcrumbs and enhances overall flavor.
For the Seasoning:
  • Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder: Essential spices that enhance the chicken's natural taste.
For the Preparation:
  • Cooking Spray: Ensures easy casserole removal and prevents sticking.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, Chicken Casserole Recipe

Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, Chicken Casserole Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 16 reviews

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty chicken and broccoli casserole melts together creamy cheese, tender rice, and succulent protein for a comforting family meal. Generous portions promise satisfaction with each delightful, cheesy forkful you’ll savor.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 2 lbs chicken breast
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Vegetables:

  • 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 0.5 cup diced onions

Base:

  • 2 cups uncooked white rice
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 0.5 cup milk
  • 0.5 cup sour cream

Seasonings:

  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder

Topping:

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish with a light coating of cooking spray.
  2. Cook white rice according to package instructions, ensuring it’s fluffy and slightly undercooked to prevent mushiness during baking.
  3. While rice is cooking, dice chicken breasts into uniform bite-sized cubes, seasoning thoroughly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  4. Sauté chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat until golden and cooked through, approximately 6-8 minutes.
  5. Chop broccoli florets and diced onions into small, consistent pieces to ensure even cooking and distribution throughout the casserole.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, milk, and sour cream, whisking until smooth and well-incorporated.
  7. Fold cooked rice, sautéed chicken, broccoli, and onions into the creamy soup mixture, stirring gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
  8. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
  9. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese across the entire surface of the casserole.
  10. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter, then evenly distribute the crumb topping over the cheese layer.
  11. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
  12. Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set and cool slightly.

Notes

  • Prevent rice from becoming mushy by slightly undercooking it before adding to the casserole, ensuring a perfect texture when baked.
  • Swap chicken for tofu or plant-based protein to create a vegetarian version that maintains the creamy, comforting essence of the dish.
  • Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to reduce calories and add extra protein while keeping the casserole creamy and delicious.
  • Customize the breadcrumb topping with panko for extra crunch or add herbs like thyme or parsley for a more complex flavor profile.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 570
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 60 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 40 g
  • Cholesterol: 100 mg
Jackson Reid

Jackson Reid

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Single-serving recipe development
  • Global flavor fusion
  • Minimalist cooking techniques
  • Food photography and styling

Education

Holyoke Community College – HCC-MGM Culinary Arts Institute
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Farm-to-table cuisine, sustainable cooking practices, and hands-on kitchen training


Jackson’s love for cooking began one dish at a time. After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Holyoke Community College’s HCC-MGM Culinary Arts Institute, he focused on what mattered most: creating recipes that are simple to follow and full of flavor.
At 10 Below Ice Cream, Jackson brings together global influences and a less-is-more approach. His recipes reflect his belief that good food doesn’t need to be complicated; it just needs to make sense, taste great, and feel right.
When he’s not testing ingredients or adjusting seasonings, you’ll find him hiking near Asheville, exploring local markets, or chasing the best light for food photos.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star