Golden Cheesy Broccoli Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe

Comfort food takes on a whole new meaning with this delightful broccoli, rice, cheese, and chicken casserole that promises pure satisfaction.

Creamy cheese melts into perfectly cooked rice, creating a harmony of flavors that dance across your palate.

Tender chicken pieces nestled throughout add a protein-packed punch to this hearty dish.

Crisp broccoli florets bring a fresh, green brightness that cuts through the richness of the cheese sauce.

Every forkful delivers a balanced blend of textures and tastes that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

This casserole transforms simple ingredients into a memorable meal that feels like a warm embrace.

Dive into this crowd-pleasing recipe and watch as it becomes an instant family favorite.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Calories: 450 kcal

Servings: 5

Ingredients That Make Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, And Chicken Casserole

• Chicken: Lean protein that adds hearty flavor and satisfying texture to the casserole, best when using leftover or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: Creates a creamy base that binds ingredients together and adds rich, comforting flavor.

• Sour Cream: Adds tangy richness and helps create a smooth, velvety texture.
• Cheddar Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Provide deep, sharp cheese flavor and create a gooey, melty topping that adds irresistible golden-brown crust.
• Milk: Helps thin the sauce and ensures even moisture throughout the casserole.

• Broccoli: Introduces vibrant green color, nutritional boost, and fresh vegetable crunch to the dish.
• Rice: Serves as a hearty base that absorbs flavors and provides satisfying substance.
• Breadcrumbs: Optional topping that creates a crispy, golden exterior when mixed with melted butter.
• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Smoked Paprika: Layered spices that enhance overall depth of flavor.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and elevate the entire dish's taste profile.
• Melted Butter: Helps breadcrumbs achieve a golden, crispy texture and adds richness.

Cooking Tools For Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, And Chicken Casserole

• Large mixing bowl: Perfect for combining all the delicious ingredients smoothly and easily.
• 9×13-inch baking dish: Essential for creating that classic casserole shape and even cooking.
• Colander: Great for draining broccoli and ensuring no excess water remains.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precise tools to get the right amount of each ingredient.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Helps mix ingredients thoroughly and transfer mixture to baking dish.
• Pot: Needed for boiling water to blanch fresh broccoli.
• Cheese grater: Useful if you're grating fresh cheese for extra flavor.

Simple Steps For Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, And Chicken Casserole

• Oven Preparation

Heat the oven to create a warm cooking environment. Grab a baking dish and lightly coat it with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

• Broccoli Readiness

Get your broccoli ready by quickly boiling it until it turns a vibrant green. Drain and set aside, ensuring it’s not too soft or mushy.

• Mixing Magic

Combine all the delicious ingredients in a large bowl. Stir everything together until the mixture looks creamy and well-blended. The goal is to create a harmonious flavor profile that will make mouths water.

• Casserole Assembly

Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly, making sure every corner gets some love. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some extra cheese on top for that irresistible golden crust.

• Baking Moment

Slide the dish into the preheated oven. Let it bake until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the edges start to bubble with excitement. This usually takes about 25-30 minutes.

• Serving Delight

Pull the casserole out and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the flavors to settle and makes serving easier. Dish out generous portions and watch everyone’s eyes light up with joy.

Ideas To Change Up Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, And Chicken Casserole

• Meal Prep Magic: Prepare this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate unbaked. Cover tightly with foil and store for up to 2 days, then bake when ready to serve – perfect for busy weeknights.
• Protein Power Switch: Replace chicken with turkey, rotisserie chicken, or plant-based protein like tofu for different flavor profiles and dietary needs. Each alternative brings a unique twist to the classic recipe.
• Veggie Boost Technique: Expand nutritional value by adding extra vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or spinach. Chop finely to blend seamlessly into the casserole without changing the overall texture.
• Gluten-Free Transformation: Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup, swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free options, and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free. This simple adjustment makes the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Spice Level Adventure: Incorporate diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or cayenne powder for those who enjoy a spicy kick. Start with small amounts and adjust according to personal heat tolerance, allowing each person to customize their comfort level.

Serve Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, And Chicken Casserole With These Tips

• Cozy Family Dinner Companion: Pair this hearty casserole with a crisp green salad dressed in light vinaigrette to balance the rich, creamy flavors.
• Meal Prep Magic: Portion and store leftovers in airtight containers for quick lunch options during busy workweeks, reheating easily in microwave or oven.
• Veggie Boost Bonus: Enhance nutritional value by adding extra vegetables like diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms directly into the casserole mixture for more color and nutrients.
• Wine and Dine Pairing: Complement the dish's creamy texture with a light white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, which cuts through the richness and elevates the overall dining experience.

How To Store Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, And Chicken Casserole

• Fridge Fresh Strategy: Store leftovers in airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking. Chilled casserole stays delicious for 3-4 days when refrigerated properly.
• Quick Freeze Tactic: Portion the casserole into individual servings before freezing. Wrap tightly in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty aluminum foil to maintain quality. Frozen meals remain tasty for up to 2 months.
• Reheating Magic: Thaw refrigerated casserole overnight in the fridge. Warm in the oven at 350F for 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying. Add a splash of milk to restore creamy texture and prevent edges from becoming too crisp.
• Smart Prep Approach: Make the entire casserole ahead of time and refrigerate unbaked. When ready to serve, pop it directly into the preheated oven. Add 5-10 extra minutes to cooking time if going from cold to hot. This method works perfectly for busy weeknight dinners or meal planning.

Hearty Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, And Chicken Casserole Recipe

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4.8 from 26 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Southern comfort rises with this hearty broccoli, rice, cheese, and chicken casserole, blending creamy textures and savory flavors. Home cooks will appreciate its simple preparation and satisfying results that bring warmth to family dinner tables.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups chicken, shredded or diced
• 2 cups rice (white or brown)
• 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (plus extra for topping)
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup sour cream
• ½ cup milk
• 1 can (10.5 oz / 298 g) cream of chicken soup (or homemade equivalent)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsps butter, melted

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Instructions

1. Oven Preparation: Preheat oven to 350F (175C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly.
2. Broccoli Readiness: Blanch broccoli in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until vibrant green, or completely thaw frozen broccoli and drain excess moisture.
3. Flavor Fusion: Combine shredded chicken, rice, broccoli, cream soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl, blending ingredients until uniformly distributed.
4. Casserole Assembly: Pour mixture into prepared baking dish, spreading evenly. Sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs and additional cheddar cheese across the top for a crispy, golden finish.
5. Baking and Serving: Bake for 25-30 minutes until surface turns golden brown and edges bubble with intensity. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve alongside a fresh green salad or warm dinner rolls for a complete and satisfying meal.

Notes

• Blanch Broccoli Carefully: Quick 2-3 minute boiling preserves vibrant green color and prevents overcooking, maintaining crisp texture and nutritional value.
• Balance Moisture Levels: Drain blanched or thawed broccoli thoroughly to prevent watery casserole and ensure creamy, cohesive consistency.
• Customize Protein Options: Substitute shredded chicken with turkey, tofu, or plant-based alternatives for dietary preferences or restrictions.
• Enhance Cheese Combination: Experiment with different cheese blends like smoked gouda, monterey jack, or gruyere to add depth and unique flavor profiles.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg