When I first started cooking for my busy family, I wanted dishes that were both comforting and simple. This Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole quickly became a favorite. It’s a one-pot, family-friendly meal that’s easy to customize with your favorite cheese or extra veggies. Perfect for busy weeknights or even special occasions, this chicken broccoli rice casserole combines creamy cheese, tender chicken, and fluffy rice into a wholesome, satisfying dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s quick, easy, and family-friendly. Busy weeknights become stress-free with this easy chicken broccoli rice casserole in the oven, combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and fluffy rice in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Fans of the Pioneer Woman broccoli chicken rice casserole will love this twist, and it works perfectly as a 5 ingredient chicken broccoli casserole with rice for simple meals. You can make a layered chicken broccoli rice casserole or a healthier chicken rice broccoli casserole, giving you flexibility for your family’s taste. Using Minute Rice makes it even faster, while options without soup keep it wholesome and fresh. Whether you’re prepping a weeknight dinner or a meal for special occasions, this chicken broccoli rice casserole recipe delivers comforting flavor, easy prep, and a crowd-pleasing result every time. It’s an all-in-one dish that satisfies picky eaters while letting you enjoy a fuss-free, cheesy dinner.
Ingredients for This Recipe
This Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole brings together simple, wholesome ingredients that create a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying one-pot meal. The base of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and fluffy rice provides protein, fiber, and comfort, while the homemade cheese sauce adds richness without relying on canned soup. Using shredded cheddar or a blend with mozzarella ensures melty, gooey goodness in every bite. Milk and sour cream (or Greek yogurt) create a smooth, creamy texture, while butter, flour, and seasonings like garlic and onion powder build a flavorful sauce. Optional toppings, such as breadcrumbs or crushed crackers with melted butter, add a golden, crispy finish that makes this chicken broccoli rice casserole perfect for weeknights or family gatherings. You can also swap in Minute Rice for a faster version or customize the cheese and veggies to suit your taste. Every ingredient works together to make this casserole both easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious.
🛒 Ingredients (serves 6–8):
For the Casserole:
2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
2 cups broccoli florets, steamed or blanched
2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or Minute Rice)
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings:
½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a crispy topping
2 tablespoons melted butter for topping
How to Make This Recipe
Making this Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole is simple, quick, and perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and fluffy rice is coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce that brings out rich, comforting flavors. Using this easy chicken broccoli rice casserole method ensures that every bite is cheesy, flavorful, and satisfying. You can create a layered chicken broccoli rice casserole or mix everything together for a classic casserole. Substituting Minute Rice or skipping canned soup makes this chicken broccoli rice casserole even faster and healthier, while optional crispy toppings add a golden finish. Following these steps guarantees a perfectly baked chicken broccoli rice casserole that’s both family-friendly and customizable.
🛒 Steps:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish
In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat
Whisk in 2 tablespoons flour and cook 1–2 minutes to make a roux
Gradually whisk in 1 cup milk until thickened, then add 1 cup shredded cheese
Season with ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, salt, and pepper
In a large bowl, combine 2 cups cooked chicken, 2 cups broccoli, 2 cups cooked rice, ½ cup sour cream, and the cheese sauce
Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish
Sprinkle remaining ½ cup cheese and optional breadcrumb topping mixed with 2 tablespoons melted butter
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden
Let cool 5 minutes before serving
Expert Cooking Tips
Creating the perfect Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole is all about understanding how the ingredients work together. The tender chicken provides protein, while broccoli adds freshness and a slight crunch. Using fluffy cooked rice, like Minute Rice, ensures the casserole has the right texture without becoming mushy. A creamy cheese sauce binds everything together, and seasoning with garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper enhances the flavors. Whether you make a layered chicken broccoli rice casserole or a classic mixed version, these expert tips help you achieve a delicious, cheesy, and family-friendly dish every time. Adjust toppings, cheeses, and vegetables to customize your easy chicken broccoli rice casserole for your family’s taste.
💡 Expert Tips:
Use tender cooked chicken, either roasted or rotisserie, for maximum flavor
Steam or blanch broccoli to maintain a bright color and slight crunch
Minute Rice can be used for a faster, easy chicken broccoli rice casserole
Make a layered chicken broccoli rice casserole for a visually appealing presentation
Mix cheese types, like cheddar and mozzarella, for extra gooeyness
Season the cheese sauce well with garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper
Optional breadcrumb topping with melted butter adds a golden, crispy finish
Assemble casserole ahead of time and refrigerate, then bake for a convenient weeknight dinner
FAQs
Can I make this casserole without cream of soup?
Yes, this easy chicken broccoli rice casserole can be made without canned soup by using a homemade cheese sauce with milk, butter, and flour. This keeps the dish creamy and flavorful while remaining wholesome and fresh.
Can I use Minute Rice for this recipe?
Absolutely. Using Minute Rice makes this chicken broccoli rice casserole faster to prepare without sacrificing texture or taste. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or quick family dinners.
How can I make a healthier version?
For a healthier chicken broccoli rice casserole, use brown rice, reduce cheese, or swap sour cream for Greek yogurt. Adding extra broccoli or vegetables boosts nutrition while keeping the casserole comforting and filling.
Can I layer the ingredients instead of mixing them?
Yes, a layered chicken broccoli rice casserole looks beautiful and keeps flavors distinct. Simply layer rice, chicken, broccoli, and cheese sauce, then bake until bubbly and golden for a visually appealing and delicious dinner.
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This Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole is a family-friendly, easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and fluffy rice in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Whether you prefer a layered chicken broccoli rice casserole or a classic mixed version, this recipe delivers comforting flavors and effortless prep. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or special occasions, it’s also adaptable into a 5 ingredient chicken broccoli casserole with rice. Enjoy a versatile, flavorful, and satisfying casserole your whole family will love.
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Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole
- Total Time: ~45 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy, cheesy, and comforting casserole loaded with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and fluffy rice. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, this easy oven-baked dish comes together quickly and satisfies everyone at the table.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (serves 6–8):
For the Casserole:
2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
2 cups broccoli florets, steamed or blanched
2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or Minute Rice)
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings:
½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a crispy topping
2 tablespoons melted butter for topping
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook 1–2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and slightly thickened. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese until melted.
Step 3: Combine Casserole Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix cooked chicken, broccoli, cooked rice, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and cheese sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle remaining ½ cup cheese over the top. If desired, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle for a crunchy topping.
Step 5: Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Minute Rice Shortcut: If using Minute Rice, reduce baking time by 5–10 minutes and check doneness.
- Healthy Version: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt, use low-fat cheese, and add extra broccoli for more veggies.
- Make Ahead: Assemble casserole a day ahead and store in the fridge. Bake when ready to serve.
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish / Casserole
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American