Cheesy Chicken Rice Broccoli Casserole Recipe for Beginners

Name: Cheesy Chicken Rice Broccoli Casserole Recipe for Beginners
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, blanched; 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup cream of chicken soup; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons butter, melted

August 16, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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If you’re looking for a dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles, my cheesy chicken rice broccoli casserole is the answer! This creamy, dreamy casserole is packed with tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant green broccoli, all swimming in a rich cheese sauce that’s simply irresistible. The best part? It’s not just delicious; it’s also incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Each bite is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, and the crispy breadcrumb topping adds just the right crunch. Trust me, once you serve this up, it’ll quickly become a favorite in your household—everyone will be asking for seconds (or thirds!). Get ready to fall in love with this comforting classic that’s sure to warm hearts and fill bellies!

cheesy chicken rice broccoli casserole recipe - detail 1

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (I love using rotisserie chicken for convenience!)
1 cup cooked rice (white or brown, your choice!)
2 cups broccoli florets, blanched (for that bright color and tender crunch)
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (the more cheese, the better, right?)
1 cup cream of chicken soup (this gives it that creamy base we all crave)
1/2 cup milk (to loosen things up a bit)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for that extra flavor kick)
1/2 teaspoon onion powder (because who doesn’t love onion flavor?)
Salt and pepper to taste (season to your heart’s content!)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for that delightful crispy topping)
2 tablespoons butter, melted (this makes the breadcrumbs golden and delicious)

How to Prepare the Cheesy Chicken Rice Broccoli Casserole Recipe

Preheat Your Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and reaches that perfect bubbly, golden-brown finish. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken, cooked rice, and blanched broccoli florets. Then, add in the shredded cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, and milk. Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Now, it’s time to get your hands in there (or grab a spatula) and mix everything together until it’s well incorporated. You want every bite to be bursting with flavor!

Transfer to Baking Dish

Next, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and give it a good greasing with some cooking spray or butter. This will help your casserole come out easily once it’s baked. Carefully transfer the chicken and rice mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. This ensures that every corner gets that delicious cheesy goodness as it bakes.

Prepare Topping

Now, let’s make that topping! In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter until they’re well coated. This simple step adds a delightful crunch to your casserole. Sprinkle the buttery breadcrumbs generously over the top of the casserole before it goes into the oven.

Bake and Serve

Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for that beautiful golden brown top and a bubbly filling. Once it’s done, let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This little wait helps everything settle and makes serving easier. Trust me, the aroma wafting from the oven will have everyone eagerly waiting to dig in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s a one-dish wonder—easy to prepare and even easier to clean up!
The creamy, cheesy sauce brings together the savory chicken and fresh broccoli for a comforting meal.
Perfect for busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings.
Versatile enough to accommodate whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand.
Leftovers heat up beautifully, making it a great meal prep option.
Kids and adults alike will love the flavors, making it a family favorite.
Can be customized with your favorite cheeses or spices for a personal touch.
It’s gluten-free when using gluten-free breadcrumbs, so everyone can enjoy!

Tips for Success

To ensure your cheesy chicken rice broccoli casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are some tried-and-true tips:

Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh ingredients make a difference! Opt for high-quality chicken, fresh broccoli, and a good brand of cheddar cheese to elevate the flavors of your casserole.
Cooked Chicken: While rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut, you can also use leftover grilled or baked chicken. If you prefer, poach some chicken breasts for a fresher option—just season them well!
Rice Choices: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of rice. Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, while jasmine or basmati rice can introduce a fragrant touch.
Customize Your Cheese: While cheddar is classic, mixing in mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack can add depth and a delightful twist to your dish. Just keep an eye on meltability!
Breadcrumb Alternatives: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed rice crackers. For a healthier touch, consider using panko breadcrumbs—they’ll give you an even crunchier topping!
Don’t Overmix: When combining your ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture, and we want that creamy, fluffy casserole experience!
Check for Doneness: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. When the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges, it’s time to pull it out!
Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving helps it set up nicely, making it easier to cut and serve. Plus, you get to enjoy the delightful aroma a little longer!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to switch things up a bit, here are some fun variations on my cheesy chicken rice broccoli casserole that’ll keep your taste buds excited!

Protein Swaps: Instead of chicken, feel free to use cooked turkey, shredded beef, or even diced ham. Each option brings its own unique flavor profile, so pick what you love!
Veggie Mix-Ins: Amp up the nutrition and color by adding other vegetables like diced bell peppers, peas, or even spinach. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you’re using raw veggies to ensure they’re tender.
Cheese Variety: While cheddar is a classic, why not play around with different cheeses? Try mozzarella for that gooey stretch, gouda for a smoky flavor, or pepper jack for a spicy kick. You could even mix a couple for a cheese medley!
Herbs and Spices: Elevate the flavor by adding fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a delightful heat that balances the creaminess.
Gluten-Free Options: Want to make it gluten-free? Just substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives or even crushed nuts for added crunch and flavor.
Pasta Twist: For a fun twist, mix in some cooked pasta instead of rice. It’ll give your casserole a whole new texture and heartiness that’s perfect for pasta lovers!
Southwestern Flair: Add black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning for a southwestern version! Top it off with some avocado slices after baking for a fresh touch.

These variations not only keep things interesting, but they also allow you to cater to your family’s preferences and dietary needs. So go ahead, get creative, and make this casserole your own!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? No problem! Storing your cheesy chicken rice broccoli casserole is simple and will keep it tasting delicious for days to come. Just let the casserole cool completely before you put it away. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

If you want to keep it for a longer period, you can freeze the casserole! Just portion it out into freezer-safe containers or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It should last in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Now, let’s talk reheating! For the best results, reheat your casserole in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the casserole with foil to prevent it from drying out, and heat it for about 20-25 minutes or until it’s warmed through. If you want to get that topping crispy again, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of heating. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave—just make sure to cover them to keep moisture in, and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot.

With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy that creamy, cheesy goodness all week long!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying my cheesy chicken rice broccoli casserole, you might be curious about what’s packed into each delicious serving. Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values based on the ingredients used in this recipe:

Calories: 450
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 750mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 30g

These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and preparation methods. Whether you’re counting macros or just enjoying a hearty meal, this casserole provides a comforting dose of nutrients along with its creamy goodness!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli can be a great time-saver. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the casserole. This helps to avoid excess moisture, which can make your casserole soggy. Trust me, you want that perfect balance of creamy and crunchy!

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

You sure can! This cheesy chicken rice broccoli casserole is perfect for making ahead. Assemble the casserole and cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it’ll be starting cold!

What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use homemade cream of chicken soup or substitute with cream of mushroom soup. For a lighter option, a mixture of sour cream and chicken broth can also work well. This will still give you that creamy texture, just with a different flavor twist!

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Doubling the recipe is a great idea, especially for gatherings or meal prepping. Just make sure to use a larger baking dish to accommodate the extra ingredients. Keep an eye on the baking time, as it might need a few more minutes in the oven to ensure everything is heated through and bubbly!

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

The best way to reheat your cheesy chicken rice broccoli casserole is in the oven at 350°F (175°C). Cover it with foil to keep it moist and warm it for about 20-25 minutes. If you prefer, you can also heat individual portions in the microwave—just cover them to keep the moisture in and heat in short bursts. Enjoy that gooey goodness all over again!

For more information on the benefits of broccoli, check out Healthline.

For tips on how to cook chicken perfectly, visit Serious Eats.

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.