Delicious broccoli, rice, cheese, and chicken casserole baked to perfection.

Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is a satisfying dish that combines protein, veggies, and carbs in one delightful meal. This recipe is great for busy weeknights because it’s easy to prepare and can feed the whole family. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, making it a favorite among both kids and adults.

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

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
  • 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, blanched if fresh)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
  • 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
  • ½ cup milk
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: ½ cup breadcrumbs for topping

Directions:

  1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Mix It Up: In a large bowl, combine chicken, rice, broccoli, 1½ cups of cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, and seasonings. Mix everything well until fully combined.
  3. Assemble: Spread this mixture evenly in your greased baking dish. Top it with the remaining cheese and breadcrumbs if you choose to use them.
  4. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until it is hot and bubbly with golden cheese on top.
  5. Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving. This casserole pairs well with a side salad or can be enjoyed on its own.

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

Serve this casserole warm right out of the oven. You can dish it up onto plates or serve it family-style in the baking dish. For a complete meal, consider adding a fresh side salad or garlic bread to complement the flavors.

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

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it for a longer time, consider freezing it. Make sure to wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Tips to Make Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

  • Cooked Chicken: Use leftover rotisserie chicken for an even quicker prep time.
  • Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique taste.
  • Add More Veggies: You can throw in other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to boost the nutrition.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup if you need a gluten-free dish.

Variation

For a quicker version, you can use pre-packaged stir-fried vegetables instead of fresh broccoli. Just make sure to cook them slightly before adding them to the casserole for a better texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well! Just thaw it and drain any excess water before using it in the recipe.

2. Can I add more cheese?
Absolutely! Cheese lovers can increase the amount or mix in different types of cheese for extra flavor.

3. How do I reheat leftovers?
To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.