Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s packed with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy rice all baked together until bubbly and just a little golden on top. The texture is creamy with a bit of crisp around the edges, which makes every bite really satisfying.
I love making this casserole because it’s so easy to throw together on a busy day, yet it tastes like something special. I usually toss in some cheese to make it extra comforting, and sometimes I add a little garlic or onion for extra flavor. It’s one of those dishes that everyone seems to enjoy, from kids to adults, and I always feel happy sharing it.
My favorite way to serve it is straight from the oven with a simple side salad or some crusty bread. It’s great for dinner parties, but also perfect for a cozy weeknight meal. I sometimes make a big batch and have plenty of leftovers, which reheat wonderfully for lunches the next day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using cooked chicken breast is great because it adds protein without overpowering the dish. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or shredded leftover chicken. For a lighter dish, turkey works well too.
Broccoli: Fresh or frozen broccoli both work fine, but blanch fresh broccoli briefly to keep it bright and tender. Frozen broccoli is an easy option and saves time—just be sure to drain well to avoid extra moisture.
Rice: White rice offers a soft texture, but brown rice adds nuttiness and more fiber. If you prefer, try cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist, though texture will be less creamy.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese melts well and adds flavor. You can try Colby, Monterey Jack, or even a mild mozzarella. Mixing two cheeses gives a depth of flavor and gooey texture.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and flavor. If you want to avoid canned soup, swap with homemade cream sauce using milk, flour, and chicken broth for more control over ingredients.
How Do You Get the Perfect Creamy and Well-Baked Texture?
The key to this casserole’s creamy texture and perfectly baked top is layering and moisture control:
- Make sure your rice is fully cooked but not mushy—slightly firm works best.
- Drain cooked broccoli to avoid watery casserole.
- Mix ingredients well so the sauce coats everything evenly.
- Use a baking dish that’s not too deep for even cooking.
- Bake uncovered to let the cheese melt and edges crisp up nicely.
- Let the casserole rest a few minutes after baking to thicken before serving.
These tips help the casserole hold together without being soggy and create that lovely baked flavor and texture everyone enjoys.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – I prefer this size because it fits all the ingredients perfectly and bakes evenly.
- Large mixing bowl – makes it easy to combine all your ingredients in one place.
- Skillet or frying pan – for sautéing onions and garlic; I like a non-stick pan to prevent sticking.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure your ingredients are just right every time.
- Foil or lid – optional, to cover during baking if you prefer softer top layers.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a smoky, meaty twist—perfect for extra flavor.
- Stir in a splash of hot sauce or paprika for a bit of heat and smoky flavor.
- Mix in sliced mushrooms or chopped bell peppers for more veggies and texture.
- Use a different cheese like mozzarella or Pepper Jack for a new flavor profile.
Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
For Sautéing:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
Seasonings & Garnish:
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and assemble. Baking time is around 25-30 minutes. So, you’ll spend roughly 40 minutes total from start to finish for a warm, hearty meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Oven and Broccoli:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish. If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch it just until tender, then drain well. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and squeeze out any excess water to avoid a watery casserole.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant, then remove from heat.
3. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, cooked chicken, broccoli florets, sautéed onion and garlic, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well to make sure the creaminess and flavors are evenly mixed. Fold in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.
4. Assemble and Bake:
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese over the top. Place it in the oven, uncovered, and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the frozen broccoli and drain any excess water before adding it to the casserole. This prevents the dish from becoming watery.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Substitute the Cream of Chicken Soup?
Yes, you can use a homemade cream sauce or substitute cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor. Just keep the consistency similar to maintain the casserole’s creaminess.