Introduction Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
Looking for an easy, one-pan meal that’s packed with flavor and comfort? This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is the perfect dish! It’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with tender chicken, rice, and fresh broccoli—a meal the whole family will love.
The best part? This casserole is a complete meal in one dish—no need for extra sides! Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or meal prep for the week.
Let’s get started with this simple and delicious recipe!
Table of contents
1. Ingredients for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Main Ingredients: for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 1 ½ cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 2 tbsp butter, melted (for topping)
2. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Rice & Broccoli
- Cook rice according to package instructions.
- Steam or blanch the broccoli until slightly tender (about 3 minutes).
Step 3: Mix the Base
In a large bowl, combine:
✔ Cooked chicken
✔ Cooked rice
✔ Steamed broccoli
✔ Cream of chicken soup
✔ Sour cream
✔ Milk
✔ Shredded cheddar cheese
✔ Seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper)
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers (or breadcrumbs) with melted butter. Sprinkle over the top.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.
Step 6: Let It Cool & Serve
Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
3. The Secret to the Perfect Casserole
✔ Use freshly grated cheese – It melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
✔ Don’t overcook the broccoli – Slightly undercooked broccoli holds up better in the oven.
✔ Add a crunchy topping – It gives the dish a great texture contrast.
4. Ingredient Substitutions & Additions
- No cream of chicken soup? Use Greek yogurt or a homemade roux (butter + flour + broth).
- Want more veggies? Add carrots, bell peppers, or peas.
- Need a dairy-free version? Use coconut milk and dairy-free cheese.
5. How to Make It Ahead of Time
This casserole is great for meal prep!
✔ Make it in advance – Assemble, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
✔ Freeze it – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
6. How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze individual portions for easy reheating later.
To Reheat:
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
7. Best Toppings for Extra Flavor
- Crispy Bacon Crumbles – Adds a smoky crunch!
- French Fried Onions – For extra crispiness.
- Parmesan Cheese – A nutty, savory touch.
8. What to Serve with Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?
- Garlic Bread – A perfect side for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Side Salad – A fresh, light contrast to the richness.
- Roasted Vegetables – Carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts pair beautifully.
Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Saucepan
- Baking Dish
- Oven
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or cubed
- 1 ½ cups cooked rice white or brown
- 2 cups broccoli florets steamed or blanched
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs for topping
- 2 tbsp butter melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Cook the rice according to package instructions and steam the broccoli until slightly tender.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, cooked rice, steamed broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheese, milk, and seasonings.
- Transfer the mixture to a prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers (or breadcrumbs) with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Video
Notes
9. Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use uncooked rice?
Yes! Add 1 cup uncooked rice + 2 cups chicken broth, then bake covered for 45 minutes before uncovering.
2. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken adds extra flavor and saves time.
3. Can I make this casserole without soup?
Yes! Replace it with a mix of Greek yogurt, heavy cream, and chicken broth.
4. How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit the topping and ensure the soup is gluten-free.
5. Can I add more cheese?
Yes! Extra cheese makes it even richer—try adding ½ cup mozzarella!
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s easy to make, freezer-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Give it a try and let us know—what’s your favorite way to customize it?
🚀 Now go enjoy this delicious, hearty casserole! 🍽️
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