This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is the ultimate one-pan comfort food — creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor! Made with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and crisp-tender broccoli, it’s a wholesome, family-friendly dinner that’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. Every bite delivers cozy satisfaction in true homemade comfort-food style.
💛 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Simple ingredients come together in about 40 minutes — no fuss required.
- Creamy and cheesy: A rich sauce and gooey cheese make this casserole pure comfort.
- Versatile: Add extra veggies, swap proteins, or tweak the cheese blend to suit your taste.
- Perfect for leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully and works great for meal prep.
🧀 Ingredients
(Full measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (plus extra for topping)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or homemade substitute)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- (Optional topping) 1/2 cup breadcrumbs mixed with 2 tbsp melted butter
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Broccoli
Steam or blanch fresh broccoli for 2–3 minutes, just until tender-crisp. Drain and set aside. (If using frozen, thaw and pat dry.)
3. Mix Everything Together
In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, chicken, broccoli, cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until fully combined.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish.
5. Add the Toppings
Top with extra cheddar cheese. For a crispy finish, sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
6. Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until hot and bubbly with a golden top.
7. Serve
Let cool slightly, then serve warm. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
🕒 Recipe Summary
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Calories: ~450 kcal per serving
🌟 Recipe Variations
- Add veggies: Toss in peas, carrots, bell peppers, or spinach.
- Healthier version: Use low-fat cheese, low-sodium soup, or replace some of the cream with Greek yogurt.
- Protein swap: Try turkey, ham, or tuna instead of chicken.
- Cheese mix: Use Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Parmesan for extra richness.
- Add spice: Sprinkle in paprika, red pepper flakes, or a pinch of cayenne.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly or use a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of milk or broth if it seems dry.
❓ FAQs
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
You can substitute homemade cream of chicken soup, Greek yogurt, or a mix of broth and cream thickened with a little flour.
How do I keep the broccoli from turning mushy?
Steam it briefly (2–3 minutes) and drain well before mixing it into the casserole.
Can I use uncooked rice?
This recipe is designed for cooked rice. If using uncooked, adjust the liquid and bake time so the rice cooks fully.
How do I make the topping extra crispy?
Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and bake uncovered until the top turns golden and crunchy.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole with:
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
- A fresh green salad
- Roasted vegetables or a light soup starter
💬 Final Thoughts
This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is everything you want in a weeknight dinner — hearty, creamy, cheesy, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you make it fresh or pull it from the freezer for an easy meal, it’s always a hit around the table. One pan, simple ingredients, and big comfort — what’s not to love?