If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that feels like a big warm hug in a dish, then this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce baked to golden perfection. This casserole is simple to make but delivers incredible flavor and texture with every bite. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a hearty meal to savor throughout the week, this dish ticks all the boxes for being satisfying, nourishing, and downright delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe calls for a handful of straightforward ingredients you might already have in your pantry or fridge. Each component plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, creaminess, and that irresistible texture that makes casseroles so beloved.
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep and added savory depth.
- 2 cups cooked rice: Fluffy rice absorbs the sauce perfectly, keeping the casserole moist.
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed: Adds a fresh pop of color and healthy crunch.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: The comforting creamy base that holds the casserole together.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Brings tanginess and richness for extra moisture.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the sauce just enough without thinning it out.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Melts beautifully for ooey-gooey cheesy goodness.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Provides a subtle, sweet depth of flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and rounds out all the other tastes.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick to brighten the dish.
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs: Creates a satisfyingly crisp topping.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Helps the topping turn golden and crunchy.
How to Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and to make serving easier later on. This step ensures your casserole cooks evenly and presents beautifully.
Step 2: Mix the Main Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, steamed broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Next, sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. This mixture is the heart of your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe, full of creamy, cheesy, and savory elements.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the combined mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. This helps the casserole cook evenly and makes for nice, neat portions when ready to serve. Once spread, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top. The cheese will melt and create a luscious, golden blanket over the casserole while baking.
Step 4: Add the Crunchy Topping
In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Toss them together until the crumbs are coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole. This step gives your dish an irresistible crispy top layer that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until it’s hot and bubbly around the edges and the cracker topping is golden brown and crisp. Once out of the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes—this helps the casserole set and makes it easier to serve. Now you’re ready to enjoy every comforting bite of your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe!
How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe even further, consider adding fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or green onions. These add a burst of color and a slight freshness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy casserole base. A light dusting of extra shredded cheddar or a sprinkle of Parmesan can also amplify the cheesy flavor.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even simple garlic bread. Light, refreshing sides balance the richness of the casserole perfectly, making your meal more rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets. This presentation makes the dish feel special for guests or family dinners. You can also layer individual servings with extra steamed broccoli or even sprinkle a dash of paprika over the top for a pop of color and a touch of warmth.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the casserole completely before storing to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
You can also freeze this casserole for longer storage. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results without compromising the creamy texture.
Reheating
Reheat your casserole in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and bubbly. You can also use a microwave, but the oven is best for keeping the crisp topping intact. Cover with foil if it seems to brown too quickly during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice or quinoa adds extra nutrition and a nuttier flavor. Just make sure they are cooked before mixing into the casserole to keep the texture just right.
Is there a substitute for cream of chicken soup?
Yes, you can swap cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom soup for a different but equally delicious flavor. Homemade cream soups can also be used if you prefer to control ingredients.
Can this casserole be made vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, cauliflower, or additional broccoli. Using vegetable broth-based cream soups will keep it vegetarian-friendly.
How do I make this casserole more kid-friendly?
Most kids love this casserole as is! To make it extra appealing, you can finely chop the broccoli or even puree it into the sauce for a smoother texture. Mild cheeses and seasoning adjustments help keep it familiar and tasty.
Can I add extra cheese or toppings?
Yes! Feel free to stir in some Parmesan or mozzarella for added cheesiness, or sprinkle extra breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top for an even crunchier crust. Just keep balance in mind to avoid overwhelming the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe is truly a comforting classic that deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation. Its creamy, cheesy layers combined with the fresh crunch of broccoli make it irresistibly good and perfect for everything from busy weeknights to relaxed weekend dinners. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a beloved favorite for family and friends alike!
Print
Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty American classic that combines tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant steamed broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Topped with a buttery, crispy cracker crust and baked until golden and bubbly, it’s the perfect easy family dinner that satisfies every time.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed until tender
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, cooked rice, steamed broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and evenly mixed.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, ensuring an even layer for cooking. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, toss the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter until they are evenly coated. Sprinkle this buttery topping evenly over the casserole to add a crunchy golden crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. Bake until the casserole is hot and bubbly throughout and the topping has turned a crispy golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve. Enjoy warm.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken soup for a different flavor profile.
- Use brown rice or quinoa as healthier grain alternatives.
- Rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut that works well in this recipe.
- For added richness, stir in 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese before baking.
