If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that comes together quickly and packs loads of flavor, the Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe is going to become your new go-to. Imagine tender shredded chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and vibrant broccoli florets all smothered in creamy, cheesy goodness baked to bubbly perfection. This casserole brings together wholesome ingredients with a cheesy hug in every bite, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or feeding a hungry family without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in how simple, familiar ingredients come together to create something incredibly satisfying. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding creaminess, a cheesy pull, or a pop of green freshness.
- 2 cups cooked chicken: shredded chicken provides protein and a tender texture that soaks up all the flavors.
- 2 cups cooked white rice: the base that adds heartiness and makes the casserole wonderfully filling.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: steamed broccoli adds a nutritious crunch and vibrant color to the dish.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: sharp cheddar gives the casserole its rich, classic cheesy flavor.
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese: mozzarella adds gooey meltiness and a subtle creaminess.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: a creamy binder that keeps everything luscious and moist.
- 1/2 cup milk: thins out the soup slightly for the perfect casserole consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: adds a hint of savory warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: enhances depth with fragrant, mellow onion notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: balances all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: a subtle kick that lifts the entire dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: adds mild smokiness and a beautiful color contrast.
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted: used to create a crispy, golden topping.
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (optional): provides a buttery crunch on top for extra texture.
How to Make Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so your casserole doesn’t stick and comes out effortlessly. This simple prep ensures your dish bakes evenly and the flavors meld beautifully without fuss.
Step 2: Mix the Main Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, cooked white rice, and steamed broccoli. Add in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, cream of chicken soup, milk, and your seasonings—garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir everything thoroughly until it’s well incorporated. This is where the magic happens, as every ingredient mingles to create a creamy, cheesy mixture that’s bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Transfer to the Baking Dish
Pour the cheesy mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure every bite gets the perfect balance of chicken, rice, and broccoli layered with cheese.
Step 4: Add the Crispy Topping
Mix the melted butter with the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs in a small bowl, if you’re using them. Sprinkle this buttery mixture generously over the top of the casserole. This topping will bake to a golden, irresistible crunch that perfectly contrasts with the creamy base beneath.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your casserole in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and the top is a gorgeous golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes after baking—this rest time helps everything set and makes it easier to serve.
How to Serve Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or chives on top adds a burst of green freshness and a subtle herbal note that brightens the rich casserole. A light drizzle of hot sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can add a zesty kick if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines on its own, but pairing it with a crisp, tangy salad or some roasted vegetables creates a well-rounded meal. A simple side of garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect to mop up any leftover cheesy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish for a cozy family-style meal, or spoon individual portions into shallow bowls for a rustic yet elegant presentation. For parties, consider portioning it into mini ramekins so guests can enjoy their own personal casserole servings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole should be transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated within two hours of cooking. It will keep well for up to 3 to 4 days and retains its creamy, cheesy texture wonderfully when properly stored.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe by placing cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. It’s best eaten within two months for optimal flavor and texture. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
For reheating, cover the casserole with foil to prevent it from drying out and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. If reheating individual portions in the microwave, cover loosely and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice works well and adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before mixing it into the casserole, as the baking time may not be enough to cook it through if you use raw rice.
Is it okay to substitute frozen broccoli?
Yes! Just steam or thaw frozen broccoli first to remove excess moisture and avoid a soggy casserole. Your dish will still be delicious and colorful.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Sure thing! Replace the chicken with cooked beans, tofu, or more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. Swap the cream of chicken soup for a cream of mushroom or vegetable soup alternative to keep things meat-free.
What cheese melts best for this casserole?
Cheddar and mozzarella are tried-and-true for their meltability and flavor. Cheddar gives a sharp, tangy bite, while mozzarella adds gooey stretchiness. You could also experiment with Monterey Jack or Colby for a different twist.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready, add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it’s going into a cold oven.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe is pure comfort food at its finest — simple to prepare, packed with wholesome ingredients, and bursting with cheesy flavor that everyone will love. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, this dish delivers satisfying portions and warm, cozy vibes in every bite. Give it a try soon and watch it quickly become a staple recipe in your kitchen!
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Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty one-dish meal combining tender shredded chicken, fluffy white rice, steamed broccoli, and a creamy blend of cheeses baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a family dinner, this casserole is simple to prepare and packed with delicious flavors and textures everyone will love.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Topping
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, cooked white rice, steamed broccoli florets, shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated and evenly mixed.
- Prepare Casserole: Transfer the mixed casserole filling into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly to form a uniform layer.
- Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the surface of the casserole to add a delicious, crispy topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and the topping has turned a golden brown color.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy a warm, cheesy, and nutritious meal!
Notes
- You can substitute cooked brown rice for white rice for a healthier variation.
- Steaming the broccoli beforehand ensures it cooks evenly in the casserole.
- The crushed crackers topping is optional but adds a crunchy texture to the casserole.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat leftovers in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
