WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Packed with tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, fluffy rice, and melty cheddar cheese, all brought together with a creamy, savory sauce, it’s a complete meal in one pan. Optional buttery breadcrumbs add a satisfying crunch on top, making every bite rich and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and Easy: Perfect for busy families or weeknight meals.

• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters love this cheesy goodness.

• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable pantry staples.

• Meal Prep Approved: Make ahead and freeze for future meals.

• High-Protein and Filling: Loaded with chicken and cheese for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients Breakdown:

Main Ingredients

• Cooked chicken (2 cups, shredded): Provides protein and hearty texture.

• Broccoli florets (2 cups, fresh or frozen): Adds a nutritious, vibrant component.

• Cooked rice (1 cup, white or brown): A hearty base that absorbs the creamy sauce.

Creamy Sauce

• Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): Forms the creamy, flavorful base of the casserole.

• Sour cream (½ cup): Adds richness and a slight tang to balance the dish.

• Garlic powder (½ teaspoon) and Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Boosts the savory flavor profile.

• Salt (½ teaspoon) and Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Enhances and rounds out the overall flavor.

Cheese and Topping

• Shredded cheddar cheese (1 ½ cups): Melts into the casserole for a gooey, cheesy finish.

• Breadcrumbs (½ cup, optional): Adds a crunchy topping for texture.

• Butter (2 tablespoons, optional): Used to coat breadcrumbs for a rich, golden crust.

Tips and Tricks

• Pre-cook Broccoli: Lightly steam broccoli if you prefer it softer.

• Rice Options: Use leftover rice or even microwaveable rice pouches for quick prep.

• Cheese Choices: Mix in Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a creamier texture.

• Breadcrumb Upgrade: Panko breadcrumbs create a crunchier topping.

Variations and Customizations

• Low-Carb Option: Substitute cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly version.

• Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken for cooked chickpeas or tofu.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for extra heat.

• Extra Veggies: Stir in mushrooms, peas, or diced bell peppers.

Pairing Suggestions

• Simple Side Salad: A fresh green salad balances the richness.

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the cheesy sauce.

• Roasted Vegetables: Add more color and nutrients to your meal.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze unbaked or baked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

• Reheating: Warm in the microwave or covered in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Popular Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli without thawing it?

Yes, but blanching it briefly before assembling ensures a better texture.

Can I substitute cream of chicken soup?

You can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a different flavor profile.

What’s the best way to cook chicken for this casserole?

Rotisserie chicken, poached chicken breasts, or leftover grilled chicken all work perfectly.

Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

---

• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 50–55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Broccoli, Rice, Cheese & Chicken Casserole – A creamy, cheesy one-pan meal with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and broccoli, topped with a buttery breadcrumb crunch. Comfort food at its easiest!

Advertisements

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)

• 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

• ½ cup sour cream

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ cup breadcrumbs

• 2 tablespoons butter (for mixing with breadcrumbs)

---

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

Step 2: Combine the Filling

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, broccoli florets, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

• Stir until everything is evenly mixed.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

• Transfer the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared casserole dish.

• Spread it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

• Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

Step 5: Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping (Optional)

• In a small skillet, melt the butter over low heat.

• Stir in the breadcrumbs until fully coated with butter.

• Evenly sprinkle the buttery breadcrumbs over the cheese layer.

Step 6: Bake

• Cover the casserole with aluminum foil.

• Bake for 20–25 minutes.

• Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

• Let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving.

• Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

• Rotisserie chicken is a time-saver and adds a lot of flavor.

• If using fresh broccoli, lightly steam or blanch it before adding it to the casserole to ensure it’s tender.

• For an extra crunchy topping, broil the casserole for the last 1–2 minutes after baking.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?