Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole: A Family Favorite

This creamy chicken broccoli rice casserole is a one-dish wonder with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and cheesy rice. Perfect for weeknight dinners!

Introduction

Chicken broccoli rice casserole is the epitome of comfort food—a creamy, cheesy, and filling dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. This all-in-one meal combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and fluffy rice in a savory sauce, topped with melty cheese for the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

One of the best things about this casserole is its versatility. You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, swap out vegetables, or even make it ahead of time for an easy meal prep solution. It’s a dish that’s both simple to prepare and satisfying to eat.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a recipe that can stretch into leftovers, this chicken broccoli rice casserole is a classic that never disappoints. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or homemade equivalent)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted (optional, for topping)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with non-stick spray or butter.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Add the cooked chicken, rice, and steamed broccoli to the bowl. Stir to coat everything evenly with the creamy mixture.
4. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
6. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top.
7. If using the breadcrumb topping, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese layer.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If using breadcrumbs, broil for 2-3 minutes to brown the topping.
9. Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Prepare

1. Cooking the Chicken and Rice: Use pre-cooked chicken and rice to save time. Rotisserie chicken is an excellent choice for this recipe.
2. Steaming the Broccoli: Steam the broccoli just until tender-crisp to retain its vibrant color and texture.
3. Mixing the Sauce: Ensure the sauce is well-seasoned, as it ties all the ingredients together. Adjust spices to taste.
4. Layering: Spreading the mixture evenly in the casserole dish ensures every bite is perfectly creamy and cheesy.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings

Serves 6 hearty portions.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just thaw and drain it well before adding to the casserole.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

3. Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?
Yes, you can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup, or make a homemade version for a fresher taste.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

5. Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Carrots, peas, or mushrooms make great additions to this dish.

Conclusion

Chicken broccoli rice casserole is a timeless classic that combines comforting flavors with wholesome ingredients. Its creamy texture, cheesy topping, and hearty components make it a favorite for both kids and adults.

With its easy preparation and endless customization options, this casserole is a reliable go-to recipe for busy evenings or meal prep. Serve it as is or pair it with a simple green salad and some crusty bread for a complete and satisfying dinner. Give this recipe a try, and watch it become a staple in your home!