Creamy Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole Recipe

Comfort food takes on a whole new meaning with this delightful broccoli rice chicken and cheese casserole that promises to warm your heart and satisfy your hunger.

Creamy textures blend seamlessly with hearty ingredients, creating a meal that feels like a warm hug.

Weeknight dinners just got more exciting with this simple yet delicious combination.

Tender chicken pieces nestle among fluffy rice and vibrant green broccoli florets.

Melted cheese adds a golden, irresistible layer that makes every bite pure bliss.

Packed with protein and vegetables, this casserole delivers nutrition and flavor in one incredible dish.

You’ll want to savor every single spoonful of this comforting classic that’s sure to become a family favorite.

What Goes In Broccoli Rice Chicken And Cheese Casserole

• Chicken Breasts: A lean and versatile protein that provides essential nutrients and creates a hearty main component of the casserole.

• Broccoli Florets: A nutritious green vegetable that adds color, texture, and important vitamins to the dish.
• Onions: A flavor-enhancing ingredient that provides a sweet and aromatic base for the casserole.

• White Rice: A fluffy and neutral grain that serves as the foundational layer of the casserole.
• Milk: A creamy liquid that helps bind the ingredients and creates a smooth texture.
• Eggs: A binding agent that helps set the casserole and provides additional protein.

• Salt, Black Pepper, Garlic Powder: Classic seasonings that enhance the overall flavor profile of the chicken and dish.

• Cheddar Cheese: A melty and flavorful cheese that creates a golden, crispy top layer.

• Butter: A rich fat used to sauté onions and add depth of flavor.
• Cooking Spray: A light coating to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal from the baking dish.

How To Prepare Broccoli Rice Chicken And Cheese Casserole

Step 1: Preheat The Oven And Prepare Baking Dish

Get your oven warming up to 375°F and spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Create A Fluffy Rice Base

Cook white rice following package guidelines to ensure light and separated grains that will form the foundation of your casserole.

Step 2: Season And Chop Chicken

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder

Dice the seasoned chicken into small, bite-sized cubes for easy eating.

Sauté Aromatic Onions

Melt butter in a skillet and cook diced onions until they turn translucent and release a delightful fragrant aroma.

Step 3: Cook Chicken To Perfection

In the same skillet, brown the chicken cubes completely, cooking for about 8-10 minutes to ensure they’re fully done and golden.

Step 4: Steam Vibrant Broccoli

Steam broccoli florets until they’re tender yet crisp, preserving their bright green color and nutritional goodness.

Step 5: Whisk Creamy Binding Mixture

Blend milk and eggs in a mixing bowl to create a smooth, creamy liquid that will hold the casserole together.

Step 6: Combine All Ingredients

• Cooked rice
• Chicken pieces
• Steamed broccoli
• Sautéed onions

Ensure ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the dish.

Step 7: Pour Creamy Mixture

Evenly pour the milk and egg mixture over all ingredients, making sure everything gets coated.

Step 8: Add Cheesy Topping

Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese across the top, creating a delicious golden covering.

Step 9: Bake Until Golden And Bubbly

Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese melts and turns slightly golden.

Step 10: Let Casserole Rest

Remove from oven and allow the casserole to sit for 5-7 minutes, letting flavors meld and the dish settle before serving.

Pro Tips For Broccoli Rice Chicken And Cheese Casserole

• Boost Rice Texture: Rinse rice before cooking to remove excess starch and achieve fluffier, more separated grains.
• Maximize Chicken Flavor: Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help spices adhere better and create a perfect golden-brown exterior.
• Prevent Soggy Casserole: Let steamed broccoli and cooked chicken cool slightly before mixing to reduce excess moisture and maintain dish's structure.
• Layer Cheese Strategically: Add half the cheese during baking and sprinkle remaining cheese in the last 5 minutes for a perfectly melted, crispy top.
• Make It Healthier: Substitute whole milk with low-fat milk or Greek yogurt to reduce calories without compromising creamy texture.

Twists To Try With Broccoli Rice Chicken And Cheese Casserole

• Quinoa Chicken Swap: Replace white rice with protein-packed quinoa for a gluten-free, nutrient-dense alternative that adds a nutty flavor and extra protein.
• Mediterranean Herb Variation: Incorporate oregano, basil, and thyme into the seasoning mix, and swap cheddar for crumbled feta cheese to create a Mediterranean-inspired casserole.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Edition: Substitute rice with riced cauliflower to reduce carbohydrates and add extra vegetable nutrition, perfect for keto and low-carb diet followers.
• Dairy-Free Comfort Version: Use nutritional yeast instead of cheese, swap milk with unsweetened almond milk, and add dairy-free margarine to accommodate lactose-intolerant individuals.

What To Serve With Broccoli Rice Chicken And Cheese Casserole

• Savor Perfect Wine Companions: Crisp Chardonnay pairs beautifully with this creamy chicken casserole, balancing its rich cheese and protein profile while complementing the subtle garlic and butter notes.
• Craft Refreshing Beer Match: Light wheat beer cuts through the casserole's richness, offering a clean, crisp contrast that refreshes the palate and enhances the dish's savory elements.
• Elevate Beverage Experience: Sparkling apple cider provides a delightful non-alcoholic option, delivering a subtle sweetness that harmonizes with the chicken and broccoli's earthy undertones.
• Enhance Side Drink Selection: Herbal iced tea introduces a light, botanical backdrop that cleanses the palate between bites, creating a balanced and enjoyable dining experience.

Storage Tips For Broccoli Rice Chicken And Cheese Casserole

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping the casserole fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Label the container with the date to track freshness.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out and maintain moisture.
• Cut individual portions, place on a microwave-safe plate, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming. Add a splash of milk to restore creamy texture.

Common Questions About Broccoli Rice Chicken And Cheese Casserole

• Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice works perfectly. Just adjust cooking time and liquid according to package instructions to ensure proper rice texture.

• Is it okay to substitute chicken with another protein?

Absolutely! Turkey or diced ham are excellent alternatives that will maintain the casserole’s hearty profile and flavor balance.

• How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches 165°F, which guarantees safe and fully cooked chicken pieces.

• Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Definitely. Prepare the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Just add 5-10 extra minutes to cooking time when baking directly from the refrigerator.

Why Broccoli Rice Chicken And Cheese Casserole Is A Classic

• Tackle Complex Flavors with Ease: Discover a recipe that combines multiple ingredients into one harmonious dish without requiring advanced culinary skills.
• Create Balanced Nutrition in One Pan: Pack protein from chicken, complex carbohydrates from rice, and essential vegetables like broccoli into a single comforting meal that supports healthy eating.
• Customize for Crowd-Pleasing Potential: Switch out broccoli for different vegetables, adjust cheese types, or add extra seasonings to match your family's taste preferences and make this recipe uniquely yours.
• Minimize Kitchen Cleanup with Smart Cooking: Use minimal cookware during preparation and create a one-dish wonder that reduces washing time while delivering maximum flavor and satisfaction.

Broccoli Rice Chicken And Cheese Casserole Recipe

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4.8 from 15 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Comforting broccoli rice chicken and cheese casserole brings warmth to family dinner tables with its creamy, cheesy goodness. Hearty ingredients blend seamlessly, promising a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Protein:

• 2 lbs chicken breast, boneless and skinless
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 eggs

Vegetables:

• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup white rice
• 1/2 cup onion, diced

Dairy and Seasonings:

• 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

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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 grains are fluffy and separated.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, then dice into bite-sized cubes.
4. Sauté diced onions in butter until translucent and fragrant, creating a golden base of flavor.
5. In a large skillet, cook seasoned chicken cubes until they’re golden brown and completely cooked through, approximately 8-10 minutes.
6. Steam broccoli florets until tender-crisp, maintaining their vibrant green color and nutritional integrity.
7. Whisk together milk and eggs in a mixing bowl, creating a creamy binding mixture for the casserole.
8. Combine cooked rice, chicken, steamed broccoli, and sautéed onions in the prepared baking dish, mixing gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
9. Pour the milk and egg mixture over the ingredients, ensuring complete coverage.
10. Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese across the top, creating a rich, melty layer.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a light golden crust.
12. Remove from oven and let rest for 5-7 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and casserole to set.

Notes

• Boost protein by adding extra chicken or swapping with lean turkey for a protein-packed meal.
• Substitute white rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb, keto-friendly version that maintains the dish’s creamy texture.
• Enhance vegetable content by mixing in additional colorful veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and visual appeal.
• Create a dairy-free alternative by using coconut milk and nutritional yeast instead of milk and cheese, perfect for lactose-intolerant individuals.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 500
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 35 g
• Cholesterol: 150 mg