Introduction
This Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish. It brings together tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, fresh broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce baked until bubbly and golden. It is easy to prepare, family-friendly, and works perfectly for busy weeknights, potlucks, or make-ahead meals. Everything cooks together in one dish, making cleanup simple and the flavor deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
3 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Topping:
1/2 cup shredded cheddar
1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Add the cooked chicken, cooked rice, and broccoli to the mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese.
Transfer the mixture to the baking dish and spread evenly.
If desired, mix the additional cheddar, crushed crackers, and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the top.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Description
This casserole is creamy, cheesy, and filled with wholesome ingredients. The chicken provides protein, the rice gives satisfying texture, and the broccoli adds freshness. The sauce binds everything together into a cozy dish that is rich but not heavy. It is perfect on its own or paired with a simple green salad.
Tips
Using rotisserie chicken saves prep time.
Fresh broccoli can be steamed for 2 minutes before adding for a softer texture.
Add a splash more milk if you prefer a creamier consistency.
Sharp cheddar offers the best flavor, but any melting cheese works.
To freeze, assemble the casserole without baking, cover tightly, and freeze up to 2 months.
Variations
Chicken can be replaced with turkey, ham, or ground chicken.
Substitute broccoli with mixed vegetables or peas and carrots.
Use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup instead of chicken.
Add cooked mushrooms or onions for extra flavor.
Use cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version.
Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy touch.
Correction
If your casserole turns out dry, add an additional 1/4 to 1/2 cup of milk or sour cream next time.
If it feels too thick, reduce the amount of rice by 1/2 cup.
If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil during baking.
Enjoy
Serve warm and enjoy a comforting, delicious, and hearty meal that is sure to become a family favorite.