If you’re craving a comforting, hearty dish that delivers on flavor and satisfaction, this Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a warm, cheesy, and deliciously creamy casserole packed with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, fluffy rice, and ooey-gooey melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this recipe brings together simple, accessible ingredients in a way that feels both nostalgic and refreshing. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want a cozy meal on a weeknight, this casserole is guaranteed to become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe right means relying on straightforward ingredients that each bring their own flair to the table. From creamy soups that provide luscious texture, to fresh broccoli adding a pop of green and crunch, every component plays a crucial role in building flavor and balance.
- 2 cups water: Essential for cooking the rice perfectly tender without any fuss.
- 2 cups uncooked rice: The hearty base that soaks up all those wonderful flavors.
- 1 (10-ounce) can cream of chicken soup: Adds deep, savory creaminess that binds everything together.
- 1 (10-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup: Boosts the earthiness and richness of the casserole.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Protein-packed and tender, it’s the star that makes this a meal, not just a side.
- 1/4 cup butter: Adds silkiness and helps create that luscious, cohesive texture.
- 1 cup milk: Lightens the mixture while helping create a creamy finish.
- 1 small white onion, diced: Brings subtle sweetness and a little bite to balance the richness.
- 16 ounces broccoli pieces (fresh or frozen): A vibrant, healthy touch that adds color and crunch.
- 2 cups Cheddar cheese, shredded: Sharp and melty, it’s the gooey goodness that ties the casserole together.
How to Make Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), setting the stage for a cozy baked meal. Cook the uncooked rice in 2 cups of water, following the package instructions carefully to ensure it’s soft and fluffy. This foundation will ideally absorb all the creamy, cheesy goodness later on.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a spacious 9×13-inch baking dish, bring together the freshly cooked rice and shredded chicken. Pour in both cans of cream soup and melted butter, then add the diced onion and broccoli pieces. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded Cheddar cheese to mix things up and get that first layer of cheesiness absorbed uniformly throughout the casserole.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking dish into your preheated oven, letting the casserole bake for 30 to 35 minutes. This baking time allows flavors to meld wonderfully and the broccoli to soften just right. Towards the end of baking, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top to melt into a bubbly, golden cover that makes this dish irresistible.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
When your Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe emerges hot from the oven, give it about 5 minutes to settle. This resting time helps the casserole firm up slightly, making it easier to serve and letting the flavors deepen around every bite.
How to Serve Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle the casserole with freshly chopped parsley or green onions to add a bright, herbaceous note and a colorful finish. If you like a little heat, a light dusting of crushed red pepper flakes can add just enough kick without overpowering the comforting flavors.
Side Dishes
Serve this casserole alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the richness. Warm breadsticks or crusty garlic bread also pair beautifully, perfect for sopping up any extra cheesy sauce left on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra special touch, serve the casserole scooped into individual ramekins for personalized portions. You can also sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan on top before baking to add a delightful crunchy layer that contrasts with the creamy inside.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It will keep its creamy texture and rich flavor, making for an easy leftover meal that tastes just as comforting the next day.
Freezing
This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Prepare and assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, usually about 20 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, microwave individual servings covered loosely with a microwave-safe lid for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring halfway, to ensure even heating without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli in this casserole?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works great and is often more convenient. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water to avoid making the casserole too watery.
Is it okay to substitute different cheeses?
Definitely. You can swap Cheddar for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a blend for a slightly different flavor profile while keeping that gooey texture.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and consider adding extra veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers. Also, be sure to use vegetarian-friendly soup options.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free cream soups or homemade versions to avoid gluten. Also, double-check that your cheese and other ingredients are gluten-free.
What’s the best way to shred cooked chicken quickly?
Using two forks to pull apart the chicken or using a stand mixer with the paddle attachment on low speed can shred cooked chicken quickly and evenly.
Final Thoughts
If comfort food had a best friend, this Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe would be it. It’s a wonderfully simple, nourishing meal that feels like a warm hug with every bite. I really encourage you to give this recipe a try—you’ll find it’s as easy to make as it is to love, and is sure to become a staple in your home.
Print
Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and hearty broccoli, rice, cheese, and chicken casserole that combines tender chicken, creamy soups, fresh broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese baked to perfection. Perfect for a family dinner, this casserole is easy to prepare and offers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures in a warm, cheesy dish.
Ingredients
Rice and Chicken Base
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups uncooked rice
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
Wet Ingredients
- 1 (10-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 cup milk
Vegetables
- 1 small white onion, diced
- 16 ounces broccoli pieces (fresh or frozen)
Cheese
- 2 cups Cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat and Cook Rice: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the rice according to the package instructions until it is tender and fully cooked.
- Combine Ingredients: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, mix together the cooked rice and shredded chicken. Add in the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, butter, broccoli pieces, diced onion, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir thoroughly to blend all the ingredients evenly.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. In the last few minutes of baking, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top and allow it to melt and become bubbly. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Serve: Serve the casserole hot, accompanied by a fresh dinner salad or breadsticks for a complete meal. Enjoy the comforting flavors and creamy texture.
Notes
- You can use fresh or frozen broccoli depending on availability; if using frozen, thaw and drain excess water to prevent a watery casserole.
- For a creamier texture, consider adding extra milk or more butter.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For added flavor, sprinkle some black pepper or herbs like thyme or parsley before baking.
- To make it lighter, use reduced-fat cheese and low-fat soups.
