If you’re looking for a warm, comforting, and easy-to-make dinner recipe, this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is going to become your new go-to favorite! Combining tender chicken, crisp broccoli, gooey melted cheese, and hearty rice, this dish is a one-pot wonder that will satisfy the whole family. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even feeding a crowd.
Whether you’re craving something hearty and cozy or just need to whip up a meal that’s both kid-friendly and packed with nutrients, this recipe checks all the boxes. Plus, it uses simple pantry staples, so there’s no need to spend hours planning or shopping. By the time you’re finished, you’ll have a creamy, cheesy casserole that everyone will ask for again and again.
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Casserole
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and cleanup make this the perfect weeknight meal.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, inexpensive ingredients like chicken, rice, cheese, and broccoli.
- One-Pot Wonder: All the components cook together, saving you time and effort.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy, cheesy flavor.
- Great for Leftovers: The dish reheats beautifully, making it ideal for lunches or busy days.
This casserole is a fantastic comfort food, similar in ease to other slow cooker meals like Freezer French Dip Sandwiches or Easy Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches. While French Dip recipes tend to lean on the beefy side, this chicken and broccoli combo offers a lighter alternative without compromising on flavor. It’s equally satisfying, creamy, and hearty—perfect for a balanced family meal.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy, cheesy masterpiece:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 1 ½ cups uncooked white rice (or 3 cups cooked rice)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crunchy topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- If you’re using uncooked chicken, cook and shred it first. Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully here to save time.
- Steam the broccoli until slightly tender. If using frozen broccoli, thaw it first and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture.
- Cook the rice according to package instructions, or use leftover rice from a previous meal.
Tip: This recipe is versatile! If you’re short on time, substitute cooked rice for instant rice or pre-cooked frozen rice to speed things up.
2. Make the Creamy Base
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
- Stir in the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and milk. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Combine Everything Together
- Add the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, and rice to the skillet. Stir everything together until the chicken, broccoli, and rice are evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
- Mix in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and gooey. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika for extra flavor.
4. Bake to Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pour the chicken-broccoli mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Add breadcrumbs for an optional crunchy topping.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Pair this creamy casserole with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a well-rounded meal.
Tips for Success
- Rice Options: While white rice works best for this recipe, you can use brown rice for a nuttier flavor or quinoa for a protein boost.
- Protein Swaps: Not a fan of chicken? Substitute cooked turkey, ground beef, or even ham for a different twist.
- Add More Veggies: Mix in carrots, peas, or mushrooms for extra color and nutrition.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. Simply bake when ready.
- Freezer-Friendly: This casserole freezes beautifully! Assemble, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 375°F for 50-60 minutes.
Variations
- Cheesy Mexican Chicken Casserole: Add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, a sprinkle of taco seasoning, and swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese.
- Creamy Bacon Chicken Casserole: Stir in crumbled cooked bacon for an extra layer of smoky flavor.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace the rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter, keto-friendly meal.
This flexibility is what makes casseroles so similar to French Dip Slow Cooker Recipes or French Onion Sandwich Slow Cooker meals—they’re endlessly customizable to suit your tastes and pantry ingredients.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 400-450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
This recipe is a great source of protein and fiber while keeping you full and satisfied. By using broccoli, you’re also sneaking in valuable nutrients like vitamin C and potassium.
Storage and Leftover Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- Freeze: Freeze in individual portions for grab-and-go meals. Perfect for meal prep!
- Reheat: Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to keep the casserole creamy when reheating.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Side Salad: A fresh garden or Caesar salad balances the richness of the dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted carrots, asparagus, or green beans.
- Fruit Salad: For a refreshing contrast, add a light fruit salad on the side.
Flavor Profile
The creamy, cheesy texture of this casserole is complemented by the savory chicken and tender broccoli. The rich, gooey cheddar cheese creates a comforting, homey flavor that’s both nostalgic and satisfying—similar to the coziness of French Dip Recipe Crock Pot dishes.
The subtle garlic and onion notes enhance the overall depth of the dish, while a touch of paprika adds just the right amount of warmth.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s quick to prepare and perfect for family dinners or potlucks. It’s creamy, hearty, and filled with simple, wholesome ingredients that you can easily find in your kitchen.
It’s recipes like this—much like Crockpot French Dip Recipes or Pioneer Woman French Dip Sandwiches—that prove you don’t need fancy ingredients to make a satisfying meal. Whether you’re freezing leftovers for later, feeding a crowd, or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your home.
Now it’s your turn! Whip up this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole and see why it’s such a family favorite. Let me know how it turns out—happy cooking!
