This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole is a comforting, cozy dish that’s packed with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, fluffy rice, and plenty of melty cheese. It’s everything you want in a one-pan meal—simple, creamy, and full of familiar flavors that hit the spot every time.
I love making this casserole when I want something easy but still feels like a home-cooked hug. The creamy sauce keeps everything moist, and the cheese makes sure every bite is packed with gooey goodness. It’s a dish that even picky eaters tend to enjoy, which makes it a favorite at family dinners.
My favorite way to serve this is fresh out of the oven with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for dipping. Leftovers reheat beautifully too, so it’s perfect for those busy days when you want a quick and satisfying meal ready to go. This casserole is definitely one I find myself coming back to again and again.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Cooked diced chicken breast is perfect here for tender bites. Rotisserie chicken works great for saving time. You can also swap for cooked shredded turkey if you prefer.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives a nice crisp texture. If you don’t have fresh, frozen broccoli works well—just thaw and drain excess water first to avoid sogginess.
Rice: White rice is used for fluffiness and mild flavor. You can try brown rice for a nuttier taste, but it may need longer cooking or extra moisture.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese adds sharp, melty richness. You could mix in mozzarella for extra stretchiness or use Colby Jack for a milder alternative.
Creamy Base: The combo of cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, and milk makes this casserole creamy and smooth. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or swap half mayo for plain yogurt.
How Do I Keep Broccoli Crunchy but Tender in the Casserole?
Broccoli texture is key here. You want it cooked but not mushy. Here’s how to do it:
- Use fresh broccoli florets and chop them into bite-sized pieces.
- Blanch the broccoli by boiling it for 1-2 minutes, then draining and shocking in ice water. This stops cooking and keeps them crisp.
- Pat dry thoroughly before folding them into the casserole mixture to avoid excess moisture.
- Don’t overbake; 25-30 minutes is enough to cook everything through and melt the cheese without turning broccoli mushy.
Taking these steps helps you enjoy broccoli that’s tender but still has a nice bite.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – I recommend this size because it holds everything well and bakes evenly.
- Mixing bowls – to combine all the sauce ingredients easily and prevent messes.
- Large spoon or spatula – for gently folding in the broccoli and combining everything evenly.
- Measuring cups and teaspoons – to measure ingredients accurately for the best flavor.
- Oven mitts – to handle the hot baking dish safely when removing from the oven.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try adding cooked bacon bits or ham for extra heartiness and smoky flavor.
- Mix in some shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese for a gooey, melty twist.
- Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper if you like a little spicy kick.
- Sauté some garlic and onion to stir into the sauce for richer flavor and aroma.
Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for this casserole to cook evenly.
- Mixing bowls – one large bowl to mix all ingredients together.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to measure ingredients precisely.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – for mixing everything well without breaking the ingredients.
- Oven mitts – to safely remove the hot casserole from the oven.
Variations & Flavor Ideas
- Cheese swaps: Try mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese for different melty textures and flavors.
- Extra veggies: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for more color and nutrients.
- Spicy touch: Mix in some chili flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños if you like a little heat.
- Protein mix: Add cooked bacon bits or ham for smoky, savory layers.
- Herbs & spices: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or a bit of paprika can boost flavor wonderfully.
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen broccoli well before adding it to avoid extra moisture that can make the casserole soggy. You can also lightly steam it to keep a nice texture.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if needed to keep it creamy.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole and assemble it in the dish, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup?
You can use cream of mushroom soup or make a quick homemade white sauce with butter, flour, milk, and chicken broth to keep it creamy and flavorful.
