Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

If you’re craving comfort food that’s hearty, flavorful, and just all-around satisfying, look no further than this Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Picture tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, fresh broccoli, and a gooey, cheesy sauce that brings everything together. It’s the kind of meal that pleases everyone, from picky eaters to food lovers alike. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, so you can have a delicious, comforting dinner ready in no time. Trust me, this casserole is going to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

This casserole is more than just a meal—it’s a weeknight lifesaver! Here’s why it’s sure to be a new favorite:

• Comforting and Hearty: It’s the ultimate comfort food, packed with protein, veggies, and cheesy goodness. One bite, and you’ll feel right at home.
• Simple and Quick: With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a dish that’s both delicious and easy to make. It’s perfect for busy nights or when you just want something stress-free.
• Family-Friendly: Whether you’re cooking for picky kids or adults, this casserole is always a hit. It’s a great way to get everyone to eat their veggies without a fuss.
• One-Dish Wonder: The beauty of this casserole is that it all comes together in one dish, so cleanup is a breeze. No need to worry about multiple pots and pans.
• Customizable: This dish is so easy to tweak. Want to make it spicier? Add a little heat with cayenne pepper. Prefer a different vegetable? Swap the broccoli for spinach or peas—this recipe is as flexible as you want it to be!

Ingredients

This casserole may seem fancy, but it’s made with simple, everyday ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Cooked Chicken: Tender, shredded chicken breast is the base of this casserole. It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken too!
• Rice: Either white or brown rice works here. The rice adds the perfect texture and makes the casserole filling and hearty.
• Broccoli: Fresh or frozen broccoli florets bring a vibrant pop of color and nutrients to this dish. Plus, they balance out the creamy richness of the cheese sauce.
• Cheddar Cheese: You can’t go wrong with sharp cheddar. It melts beautifully and adds the cheesy richness we all crave.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: This pantry staple makes the casserole creamy and helps bind everything together. It’s the secret to that rich, comforting texture.
• Milk: Used to thin out the cream of chicken soup and make the sauce smooth and pourable.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: For extra flavor that really elevates the dish.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste, of course!

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Get ready to enjoy a comforting, cheesy casserole that’s super easy to put together. Let’s get started!

Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This ensures that your casserole doesn’t stick while baking.

Prepare the Rice

If you haven’t already, cook your rice according to package instructions. If you’re using leftover rice, great! Just make sure it’s cool and ready to go.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, broccoli, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir in the cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and evenly coated.

Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Top with a little extra shredded cheese if you want that extra cheesy layer on top.

Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese is melted and golden brown on top. The edges should be slightly crispy and the middle should be hot and creamy.

Let It Set

Once it’s done baking, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This gives it a chance to set up and makes it easier to slice and serve.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 350
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 55mg
Sodium: 600mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 22g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

This casserole is filling enough to be a meal on its own, but here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:

• With a Side Salad: Pair it with a fresh, crisp green salad to balance out the richness of the casserole. A light vinaigrette would work perfectly!
• Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with a side of buttery garlic bread to scoop up all that cheesy goodness.
• Roasted Vegetables: If you want to add even more veggies, roasted carrots, zucchini, or a simple side of green beans would be a great addition.
• On Its Own: This casserole is hearty and satisfying, so sometimes it’s best served solo. Just garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra cheese if you’re feeling indulgent!

Additional Tips

• Make It Ahead: You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it the next day. It’s a great time-saver!
• Add Some Heat: If you like a little spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the mix. It’ll give the casserole a nice kick!
• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For even more flavor and to save time, rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this recipe.
• Change the Cheese: If cheddar isn’t your thing, feel free to use mozzarella or a blend of cheeses for a different twist.
• Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven to keep it nice and creamy!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A1: Yes, frozen broccoli works just fine! Just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the casserole so it doesn’t release excess moisture.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and bake it when you’re ready to serve. It’s a great make-ahead option for busy nights or special occasions.

Q3: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A3: Yes! Brown rice adds a bit more texture and fiber to the dish, so feel free to swap it in. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the casserole.

Q4: How can I make this casserole even creamier?
A4: For an extra creamy texture, you can stir in a little sour cream or cream cheese into the sauce. It’ll make it even richer!

Q5: Can I use a different type of chicken?
A5: Definitely! You can use rotisserie chicken, chicken thighs, or any leftover cooked chicken you have. Just shred it up and mix it in.

Q6: Can I freeze leftovers?
A6: Yes, this casserole freezes really well! Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Q7: How do I reheat leftovers?
A7: To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.

Q8: Can I add other vegetables?
A8: Absolutely! You can swap the broccoli for spinach, peas, or even sautéed mushrooms for a different flavor. The options are endless.

Q9: How do I make this casserole spicier?
A9: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the mix for a flavorful kick.

Q10: Can I use a different type of soup?
A10: If you’re not a fan of cream of chicken soup, you can substitute it with cream of mushroom or even a cheesy soup for a different twist.

Conclusion

This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is the epitome of comfort food. With its cheesy, creamy goodness, it’s the perfect dish to bring the family together for a satisfying meal. Simple to make, incredibly delicious, and loved by everyone—this casserole will become a new go-to in your recipe box. Get ready to enjoy some seriously tasty comfort in every bite!

Print