If you're looking for a warm, hearty, and nutritious meal that's perfect for weeknight dinners, look no further than this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole. It's an easy-to-make, comforting dish that's sure to please the whole family. Packed with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and fluffy rice all baked in a creamy sauce, this casserole is an all-in-one meal that's both satisfying and healthy. Stick around to discover how to make this delicious recipe, get tips on substitutions, and learn step-by-step instructions to ensure it turns out perfect every time!

What is Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?
Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a popular baked dish made with simple ingredients like chicken, rice, broccoli, cheese, and a creamy sauce. The casserole is assembled in layers and then baked to golden perfection. It’s known for its creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and satisfying combination of protein, vegetables, and carbs, making it an excellent choice for a wholesome family meal.
Ingredients List for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need for a classic Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole. Be sure to have everything prepared so your cooking process goes smoothly.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken works great)
- 1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown rice, as preferred)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, slightly blanched if fresh)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or homemade if you prefer a cleaner option)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided, for both mixing and topping)
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (adds creaminess and tang)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for extra flavor)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup chicken broth (helps to keep the casserole moist)
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers (for a crunchy topping)
Substitutions and Variations
This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole recipe is versatile, and you can easily make substitutions to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some common variations and ingredient swaps:
- Protein: While chicken is traditional, you can also use turkey, ham, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. If you have leftover roast chicken or turkey from another meal, it’s a great way to reduce food waste.
- Vegetables: Instead of broccoli, feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like peas, carrots, spinach, or cauliflower. Just make sure to cook or steam the veggies beforehand so they blend well into the casserole.
- Rice: Brown rice can be used for a heartier, more nutritious option. You can also use quinoa or couscous for a different texture and nutritional profile.
- Sauce: If you’re not a fan of cream of chicken soup, opt for cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup. For a homemade option, you can make a roux-based sauce using butter, flour, and milk.
- Cheese: While cheddar is a classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gouda for a different flavor profile.
- Topping: Swap out breadcrumbs for crushed cornflakes or panko for added crunch. For a gluten-free option, simply skip the breadcrumbs or use gluten-free crackers.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

- Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when the casserole is assembled.
- Cook the rice: Prepare the rice according to package instructions. You can use white or brown rice, depending on your preference. Make sure it’s fully cooked before adding to the casserole.
- Prepare the chicken: If you haven’t already, cook and shred or dice the chicken. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut here as it’s pre-cooked and flavorful.
- Blanch the broccoli: If you’re using fresh broccoli, blanch it for 2-3 minutes in boiling water to soften it slightly. If using frozen, simply thaw it.
- Mix the base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, blanched broccoli, 1 cup of shredded cheese, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the casserole: Spread the mixture evenly into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with the remaining shredded cheese and sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top for a crunchy finish.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Cool and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld and make it easier to slice.
How to Cook Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Make sure to set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to heat up while you prepare the ingredients. A preheated oven ensures even cooking and helps achieve that golden, cheesy topping.
Step 2: Cook the rice
Use your preferred type of rice, either white or brown, and cook it according to the package directions. Rice acts as the hearty base for the casserole, so it's important that it’s cooked fully before it goes into the dish.
Step 3: Prepare the chicken and broccoli
Cook the chicken if necessary. Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can save time. Blanch fresh broccoli by boiling it briefly and then shocking it in cold water to maintain its bright green color and crisp-tender texture. If you’re using frozen broccoli, make sure it’s thawed before mixing.
Step 4: Mix everything together
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, chicken, broccoli, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of shredded cheddar, and seasonings. Stir until well combined, ensuring that the sauce coats every ingredient.
Step 5: Assemble the casserole
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, followed by breadcrumbs or crushed crackers to give the casserole a nice crunch when baked.
Step 6: Bake
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The casserole is done when it’s heated through and the cheese on top is bubbly and golden.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Undercooking the rice: Make sure your rice is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole. Undercooked rice will not soften in the oven and can result in a grainy texture.
- Skipping the blanching step: If using fresh broccoli, don’t skip blanching. Adding raw broccoli can result in a tough, undercooked texture.
- Overloading with cheese: While cheese is a key ingredient, too much can make the casserole greasy or overly rich. Stick to the recommended amount to balance flavors.
- Not seasoning enough: Be sure to taste the mixture before baking and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. The casserole can taste bland without proper seasoning.
Serving and Presentation Tips
How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a simple green salad or some garlic bread on the side for added variety. It’s perfect for family-style serving, where everyone can help themselves to a portion from the baking dish.
Presentation Ideas for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
For a beautiful presentation, garnish the casserole with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions after it comes out of the oven. You can also add a drizzle of sour cream or a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.
Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the fridge before baking. Simply cover it with plastic wrap and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.
- Freezer-Friendly: It freezes well! Make an extra batch and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or bake in the oven to maintain texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, canned chicken is a great time-saver and can be used in place of cooked chicken. Just be sure to drain and shred it before adding it to the casserole.
Q: Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Simply swap out the breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative, and make sure to use gluten-free soup.
Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or place the entire casserole back in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
Q: Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
A: Yes, just double all the ingredients and use a larger baking dish, adjusting the baking time as necessary.
Conclusion
There you have it—the ultimate Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its creamy, cheesy goodness and satisfying blend of chicken, broccoli, and rice, this casserole is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Remember to follow the step-by-step instructions, avoid common mistakes, and try out the variations and substitutions to make this dish your own. Enjoy!
PrintChicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is an easy and delicious meal made with tender chicken, broccoli florets, and rice, all baked in a creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole is filling and flavorful, ideal for family dinners. Keywords: Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole, easy casserole recipe, baked chicken casserole.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
- Add cooked chicken, broccoli, rice, and half of the cheese to the mixture. Stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
- Frozen broccoli can be used; just thaw and drain before adding.
- For extra crunch, add breadcrumbs or fried onions on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ⅙th of the casserole
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
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