Cheesy Chicken Rice and Broccoli Casserole: A Comforting Delight

Name: Cheesy Chicken Rice and Broccoli Casserole: A Comforting Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup cooked rice; 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

August 13, 2025

cheesy chicken rice and broccoli casserole

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Oh, let me tell you—casseroles are the ultimate comfort food! There’s something about the way they come together, bubbling and golden, that just feels like a warm hug on a plate. My cheesy chicken rice and broccoli casserole is a shining example of this cozy magic. Imagine tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant broccoli all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce that melds together so beautifully. It’s like a symphony of flavors and textures that hits all the right notes!

This recipe has become a family favorite over the years, and I can’t help but smile every time I make it. I remember the first time I whipped it up for a busy weeknight dinner. My kids came running into the kitchen, drawn in by the irresistible aroma of melting cheese. They gobbled it up faster than I could serve it, and from that moment on, it became a staple in our home. It’s not just a meal; it’s a memory in the making, a simple dish that brings everyone together at the table, sharing stories and laughter. Trust me, you’re going to love it just as much as we do!

Ingredients List

To create this cheesy chicken rice and broccoli casserole, you’ll need to gather some specific ingredients, each playing a vital role in bringing this dish to life. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded – Using shredded chicken adds a lovely texture and makes it easy to mix throughout the casserole.
1 cup cooked rice – Fluffy white rice is perfect here, but feel free to use brown rice if you prefer a nuttier flavor.
2 cups broccoli florets, steamed – Steaming the broccoli helps it retain its vibrant color and nutrients while keeping it tender but not mushy.
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup – This is the base of our creamy sauce, giving the casserole that luscious texture.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Because who doesn’t love extra cheese? It melts beautifully and adds a rich flavor!
1/2 cup milk – A splash of milk helps to thin out the cream of chicken soup, making it easy to mix.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t forget to season it well; it really brings all the flavors together!

Having these ingredients prepped and ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable. Trust me, you’ll want to keep them handy for this deliciously cheesy casserole!

How to Prepare Cheesy Chicken Rice and Broccoli Casserole

Now, let’s dive into the steps for creating this cheesy chicken rice and broccoli casserole. I promise you, it’s as simple as it is delicious! Just follow along, and you’ll have a comforting dish ready in no time.

Preheat Your Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden top we all crave! While the oven is warming up, you can get everything else ready.

Combine the Main Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, steamed broccoli, cream of chicken soup, and milk. Don’t forget the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper! This is the moment where all the magic begins. Mix everything thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined. You want to make sure every bite is packed with flavor, so don’t be shy—get in there and mix it up!

Transfer to Baking Dish

Once everything is mixed just right, it’s time to transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. I like to use a bit of cooking spray or butter to ensure nothing sticks. Just spread the mixture evenly in the dish, making sure it’s nice and level. This helps it cook uniformly, and we definitely want every bite to be perfect!

Add the Cheese

Now comes the fun part—adding the cheese! Sprinkle that shredded cheddar cheese generously on top of your casserole. I always say, the more cheese, the merrier! If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even mix in some mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a fun twist. Who can resist a cheesy, gooey topping?

Bake to Perfection

Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are bubbly, and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden. It’s a sight to behold! Just keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to avoid any burnt edges—nobody wants that!

Cool and Serve

Once it’s out of the oven, let your casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This cooling time is important; it allows the casserole to set up a bit, making it easier to scoop out portions. When you’re ready, serve it up warm, and watch everyone’s faces light up with delight. Trust me, this cheesy chicken rice and broccoli casserole is sure to become a favorite at your table, just like it is at mine!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chicken Rice and Broccoli Casserole

There are so many reasons to fall head over heels for this cheesy chicken rice and broccoli casserole! Let me tell you why it’s a must-make dish in your kitchen:

Quick Preparation: This casserole comes together in no time! With just a few simple steps and minimal prep work, you can have a hearty meal ready to bake in under 15 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights!
Comfort Food Appeal: There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy casserole to wrap you in comfort. The creamy sauce and tender chicken make every bite feel like a cozy hug, making it perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings.
Family-Friendly: My kids absolutely love this dish, and I bet yours will too! With familiar flavors and a cheesy topping, it’s a surefire way to get everyone on board at the dinner table. Plus, who can say no to cheese?
Nutritious: Packed with protein from the chicken and loaded with vibrant broccoli, this casserole not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides essential nutrients. It’s a delicious way to sneak in some greens!
Customizable: One of my favorite things about this casserole is how easily you can make it your own. Feel free to swap out vegetables, try different cheeses, or even add some spices for a kick. The possibilities are endless!

Trust me, once you try this cheesy chicken rice and broccoli casserole, it’ll become a regular in your meal rotation. It’s not just a dish; it’s a delightful experience that brings everyone together!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to comfort food, it’s always nice to know what you’re getting in each hearty serving. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values for one serving of my cheesy chicken rice and broccoli casserole:

Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 800mg
Cholesterol: 70mg

These values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose. But overall, this casserole provides a delightful balance of protein, carbs, and a comforting dose of cheesy goodness. So dig in, knowing that you’re treating yourself to a meal that’s not just delicious but also filling!

Tips for Success

Ready to take your cheesy chicken rice and broccoli casserole to the next level? I’ve got some tried-and-true tips that’ll help you achieve the best results every time you whip up this comfort dish!

Use Leftover Chicken: One of my favorite shortcuts is using leftover chicken! Whether it’s from last night’s dinner or a rotisserie chicken from the store, it saves time and adds incredible flavor. Just shred it up and you’re good to go!
Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is the star of the show, don’t be afraid to mix things up! Adding mozzarella for extra stretch or pepper jack for a little kick can elevate the dish even further. Feel free to combine different cheeses to create your own cheesy masterpiece!
Check Your Cooking Time: Ovens can be a bit finicky, so keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. If your dish isn’t bubbly and golden after 30 minutes, give it a few more minutes. Just remember to watch for those perfect signs of doneness!
Let it Cool: Patience is key! Allow your casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set up nicely, making serving easier and preventing it from falling apart on your plate.
Don’t Skip the Seasoning: A little seasoning goes a long way! Taste your mixture before baking and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. You can even add a pinch of paprika or Italian seasoning for an extra layer of flavor!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating a cheesy chicken rice and broccoli casserole that’s not only delicious but also a hit with your family and friends. Happy cooking!

Variations on Cheesy Chicken Rice and Broccoli Casserole

The beauty of my cheesy chicken rice and broccoli casserole is its versatility! You can easily tweak it to suit your taste or use up what you have in your fridge. Here are some fun variations to consider:

Mix in Different Veggies: While broccoli is a classic, don’t hesitate to switch things up! Try adding cauliflower florets, chopped spinach, or even diced bell peppers for a pop of color and flavor. You can also throw in some frozen peas for a burst of sweetness!
Add Some Spice: If you love a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños to the mix. A dash of hot sauce can also give it that extra zing! Just be careful not to overpower the cheesy goodness.
Swap the Protein: Not in the mood for chicken? No problem! This casserole works beautifully with shredded turkey or even cooked sausage for a heartier dish. You could also go meatless by adding more beans or lentils for a vegetarian option.
Change Up the Cheeses: While cheddar is a favorite, you can experiment with different cheeses! Try adding gouda for a smokier flavor, or crumbled feta for a tangy twist. Mixing cheeses can create a delightful depth of flavor!
Herb It Up: Fresh herbs can elevate your casserole to the next level. Try adding chopped parsley, thyme, or rosemary for a fresh and fragrant finish. A sprinkle of fresh chives before serving adds a lovely touch!

These variations not only make the casserole exciting but also allow you to get creative with what you have on hand. The best part is that no matter how you change it up, it’ll still be deliciously comforting! So go ahead, have fun experimenting with your cheesy chicken rice and broccoli casserole!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made this delicious cheesy chicken rice and broccoli casserole, and now you have some leftovers? Lucky you! Storing and reheating it properly will help maintain that comforting flavor and creamy texture. Here’s how to do it:

First, let the casserole cool completely before storing it. This helps prevent condensation inside the container, which can make your leftovers a bit soggy. Once it’s cooled down, transfer any leftover casserole to an airtight container. If you’ve got a large portion, you can also cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Try to enjoy it within 3-4 days for the best taste!

When it’s time to reheat, there are a couple of methods you can choose from, depending on how much time you have:

Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil to keep the moisture in, and heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated through. If you want that cheesy topping to be extra bubbly, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking.
Microwave Method: If you’re short on time, the microwave is your friend! Place a portion of the casserole in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel (this helps keep it from drying out). Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Just be careful not to overheat it, as that can make the cheese a bit rubbery.

Whichever method you choose, just remember to check that it’s heated all the way through before serving. Enjoy your leftovers, and let that cheesy goodness warm your heart all over again!

Share Your Experience

I’d love to hear from you! Have you tried making my cheesy chicken rice and broccoli casserole? What did you think? Did your family love it as much as mine does? I’m always excited to hear about your cooking adventures and any tweaks you made to the recipe. Don’t hold back—share your stories, tips, and even those little mishaps that make cooking so memorable!

If you enjoyed this dish, please take a moment to rate the recipe and leave a comment below. Your feedback means the world to me and helps other home cooks find this comforting meal. And hey, if you snapped some photos while cooking or serving, I’d be thrilled if you shared them on social media! Tag me so we can celebrate our love for this delicious casserole together. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear all about your experience!

cheesy chicken rice and broccoli casserole - detail 1
broccoli is a great addition to this dish, providing essential nutrients.