Looking for a hearty, satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners? Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole is a classic comfort food that combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, creamy rice, and gooey cheese in one irresistible dish. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing meals ahead, this casserole is a go-to recipe you’ll love.
Packed with flavor and simple to customize, this casserole is perfect for families, potlucks, or cozy dinners at home. In this article, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for creating the ultimate cheesy casserole. Let’s dive into this comfort food classic!
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole
1. One-Pan Convenience
This casserole is a true one-pan wonder. With minimal cleanup and simple preparation, it’s ideal for busy weeknights.
2. Nutritious and Delicious
The combination of chicken, broccoli, and rice creates a balanced meal with protein, veggies, and carbs, while the cheese adds a layer of indulgent flavor.
3. Customizable
Swap ingredients or adjust seasonings to suit your family’s taste. It’s versatile enough to make your own!
Ingredients for Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting dish:
For the Casserole
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced – Use rotisserie chicken or leftovers for convenience.
- 2 cups broccoli florets – Fresh or frozen, steamed until tender.
- 2 cups cooked rice – White or brown rice works perfectly.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup – Adds creaminess and depth of flavor.
- 1 cup sour cream – Enhances the creamy texture.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a subtle, savory flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – Complements the other ingredients.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Season to your preference.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Divided (1 cup for the casserole, 1 cup for topping).
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a smoky depth to the flavor.
- ½ cup crispy fried onions or breadcrumbs – For a crunchy topping.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Rice
If you don’t already have cooked chicken and rice, prepare them now. Shred or dice the chicken and steam the broccoli until it’s tender but still vibrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, broccoli, rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread it out in an even layer.
Step 4: Add the Topping
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. For added crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crispy fried onions on top.
Step 5: Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. Pair it with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Pro Tips for Perfect Casserole
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture. Grate your own for the best melt.
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Steam the broccoli just until tender to ensure it doesn’t become mushy during baking.
- Boost the Flavor: Add a dash of hot sauce, Dijon mustard, or Worcestershire sauce to the mixture for a flavor kick.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. Increase the baking time by 5–10 minutes if baking from cold.
- Experiment with Toppings: Try crushed Ritz crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or Parmesan cheese for extra crunch.
Variations to Try
Vegetarian Option
Swap the chicken for chickpeas, tofu, or additional veggies like mushrooms or cauliflower to make this casserole vegetarian.
Gluten-Free Version
Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and double-check that all ingredients, such as the breadcrumbs, are certified gluten-free.
Spice It Up
Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the casserole for a spicy twist.
Cheesy Upgrade
Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorites for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with simple sides for a well-rounded dinner:
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread for a satisfying combination.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add extra veggies like roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts to complement the dish.
For a family-style meal, place the casserole dish in the center of the table and let everyone serve themselves.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the casserole (before or after baking) in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per serving (based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
FAQs About Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes, frozen broccoli works well! Thaw it first and pat it dry to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
Q: What’s the best type of rice to use?
A: Long-grain white rice or brown rice are great options. You can also use cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
Q: Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the cheese and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives, and use a dairy-free cream of chicken soup.
Q: How can I add more protein?
A: Add cooked bacon, sausage, or an extra cup of shredded chicken for a protein boost.
Q: Can I assemble the casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare it up to a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and bake when ready to serve.
Conclusion: A Cheesy, Comforting Classic
Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole is a dish that brings comfort and joy to the table. Its creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and cheesy topping make it a family favorite that’s easy to prepare and customize.
Why wait? Gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and create this delicious casserole today. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers, this dish is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation!
