Easy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
Looking for a wholesome and hearty meal that’s simple to make and perfect for feeding the whole family? This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a classic comfort food that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy, cheesy rice baked to perfection. Whether you're cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or need a crowd-pleaser for a potluck, this casserole is guaranteed to satisfy.
Follow the recipe below to learn how to create this family favorite from scratch in no time.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will keep coming back for seconds.
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time with ingredients you probably already have at home.
- Make-Ahead Meal: Prepares well in advance and freezes beautifully.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here are the simple ingredients required to make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole. Feel free to substitute or adjust portion sizes as needed:
For the Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
Use rotisserie chicken or bake your own for a from-scratch touch.
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
Any cooked rice will do, but jasmine or basmati rice adds a great aroma.
- 3 cups broccoli florets
Use fresh or frozen—just steam or blanch them first for a softer texture.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
To keep it creamy and flavorful.
- 1 cup milk
Adds the perfect amount of creaminess to balance the dish.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
For a cheesy finish (extra for topping, if desired).
Optional Seasonings and Add-Ons:
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (for a crunchy topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven & Prep Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
Step 2: Mix the Casserole Base
Combine the cooked chicken, rice, steamed broccoli, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese in a large mixing bowl. Mix everything until evenly combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out for an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese evenly across the top.
Optional: Add breadcrumbs on top for an extra crispy topping.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the casserole set and makes serving easier.
Serve warm and enjoy with your favorite side salad or rolls!
Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
- Make It Healthier: Use low-fat milk, reduced-fat cheese, and a lighter cream of chicken soup option to cut back on calories without sacrificing flavor.
- Save Time: Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, frozen broccoli, and microwaveable rice to make prep even quicker.
- Add Variety: Swap broccoli with cauliflower or spinach, or add a mix of cooked mushrooms for added depth.
- Customize the Cheese: Experiment with Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or mozzarella for a twist on the cheesy flavors.
How to Store and Reheat
This casserole is ideal for meal prepping and storing leftovers.
- Refrigeration: Keep covered in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Be sure to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm individual servings in the microwave, or reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until thoroughly heated.
Why Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Deserves a Spot in Your Meal Rotation
This easy casserole recipe embodies comfort food at its finest. It’s warm, cheesy, and full of hearty ingredients, making it a huge hit for busy families. With its versatility, you can adapt it to suit dietary preferences, and it’s flexible enough for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings.
If you're like most of our readers and love simple, make-ahead meals, this one’s going to be a game-changer for your recipe book.
Give This Recipe a Try
Now that you have this quick and easy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole recipe, it’s time to bring everyone together around the dinner table for this beloved comfort food. We’d love to see how yours turns out! Feel free to share your creations on social media and tag us for a feature.