Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole served in a baking dish

Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole is a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, creamy cheese, and fluffy rice. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need to put a delicious meal on the table without much fuss. It’s simple, satisfying, and can feed the whole family!

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole

Ingredients

  • 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen)
  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the long-grain rice according to package instructions until fluffy.
  3. While the rice cooks, chop chicken into bite-sized pieces and steam or microwave the broccoli until bright green but still crisp.
  4. In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, chicken, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, half of the cheddar cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  5. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
  6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.

How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole

Serve the casserole hot right out of the oven! It pairs well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for extra flavor.

How to Store Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

Tips to Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole

  • Use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
  • If you like a little kick, add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
  • For a healthier option, substitute brown rice for long-grain rice.
  • Make sure not to overcook the broccoli during steaming; it should be bright green and still crunchy for the best texture in the casserole.

Variation

You can easily change this recipe by adding other vegetables, like bell peppers or carrots. For a different flavor, try using a different type of cheese, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works great! Just thaw it first and drain any excess water.

How long does it take to bake the casserole?
Bake your casserole for 30-35 minutes, or until it is golden brown and bubbly on top.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.