Save This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Packed with tender chicken, fluffy rice, vibrant broccoli, and gooey cheddar cheese, it's a hearty, creamy dish perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, this casserole will quickly become a household favorite!
I first tried this casserole on a chilly evening, and it was an instant hit with my family. There's something so satisfying about the combination of creamy chicken, bright broccoli, and gooey cheese all baked together.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken: 2 cups, shredded or diced
- Cooked rice: 2 cups, white or brown
- Broccoli florets: 2 cups, fresh or frozen, blanched if fresh
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 2 cups, divided
- Cream of chicken soup: 1 can (10.5 oz)
- Milk: ½ cup
- Onion powder: ½ tsp
- Garlic powder: ½ tsp
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Breadcrumbs (optional): ½ cup for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Prep broccoli:
- If using fresh broccoli, blanch florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then drain. For frozen broccoli, thaw and pat dry.
- Mix ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, rice, broccoli, 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
- Assemble casserole:
- Spread mixture evenly into prepared baking dish. Top with remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese and optional breadcrumbs.
- Bake:
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until casserole is hot and bubbly, and cheese is melted and golden.
- Rest and serve:
- Let casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Save This casserole has been a go-to recipe for our busy weeknights, and my kids always look forward to dinner when they know it's on the menu. Sharing it brings back warm memories gathered around the kitchen table.
Variations and Add-ins
Feel free to add extra veggies like diced bell peppers or mushrooms to amp up both flavor and nutrition. Try swapping in different cheeses or using brown rice for a boost in whole grains.
Make-Ahead and Storage
Prepare the casserole ahead, cover, and refrigerate for up to a day before baking. Leftovers are just as delicious and can be quickly reheated in the oven or microwave.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this comforting casserole with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy.
Save This comforting casserole truly brings everyone together—perfect for sharing and enjoying any time of year.
Kitchen Guide
- → Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, you can use either white or brown rice. Cook the rice beforehand for best texture.
- → Is fresh or frozen broccoli better?
Both work well. Fresh broccoli should be blanched; frozen just needs thawing and drying before adding.
- → Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?
Cream of mushroom soup or homemade cream sauce are excellent alternatives for varied flavor.
- → What cheese is best for this casserole?
Cheddar cheese gives the best melt and flavor, but you can experiment with blends like mozzarella or gouda.
- → How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in oven or microwave.
- → Can I add other vegetables?
Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach are great choices to boost flavor and nutrition.