If you are searching for a comforting and crowd-pleasing meal, look no further than this Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe. It combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, vibrant broccoli, and ooey-gooey cheese into one hearty, velvety dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this casserole blends simple ingredients with big flavors, making every bite utterly satisfying and nostalgic. Once you try this recipe, it’s going to become one of your absolute favorites to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe plays an essential role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. The combination is simple yet thoughtfully balanced to give you a creamy, cheesy dish with tender bites of chicken and a fresh pop of green from the broccoli.
- 2 cups cooked chicken: Shredded chicken adds hearty protein and a meaty texture that’s perfect for casseroles.
- 2 cups cooked rice: The rice helps soak up all the delicious creamy goodness and binds the casserole together.
- 1 cup broccoli florets: Steamed broccoli brings a fresh, vibrant green and a slight crunch to balance the dish.
- 1 can cream of chicken soup: This classic pantry staple adds a luxuriously creamy base and savory depth.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: For tangy richness that elevates the casserole’s creaminess without overpowering.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully for that signature sharp, cheesy flavor everyone loves.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty kick to complement the cheddar perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a subtle warmth and aromatic touch.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances overall savory flavor without the fuss of chopping fresh onions.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To season and balance all the flavors harmoniously.
- 1 tablespoon butter: For greasing the baking dish, which ensures easy serving and a hint of buttery flavor.
How to Make Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Preheat Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish. This simple step prevents sticking and adds a subtle buttery note around the edges of your casserole, creating a delightful contrast to the creamy center.
Step 2: Combine All the Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cooked rice, and steamed broccoli. Next, fold in the cream of chicken soup and sour cream, which create a creamy sauce that binds everything. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavors. Finally, stir in both the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until the mixture is fully combined and ready to go into the baking dish.
Step 3: Transfer and Bake
Pour the mixture evenly into your buttered baking dish, spreading it out so the casserole bakes uniformly. Slide it into the oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. The casserole should be bubbly, and the cheese on top should be melted and golden, signaling that it’s perfectly cooked and ready to enjoy.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, give your Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe a few minutes to settle before serving. This helps it hold together beautifully, making serving neat slices easier and more satisfying.
How to Serve Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To add an extra dash of freshness and texture, garnish your casserole with chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan. Crispy fried onions or toasted breadcrumbs on top before baking can also add a delightful crunch contrast.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a hearty main, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or a simple tomato and cucumber salad can brighten up the meal. For a touch of warmth, garlic bread or dinner rolls make perfect companions.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling a bit fancy? Serve individual portions in oven-safe ramekins for a charming presentation. You can also layer the casserole components in a clear glass dish to showcase the vibrant colors of the broccoli, rice, and melted cheese in beautiful layers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your casserole, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy this comforting dish again without any extra effort.
Freezing
This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe freezes wonderfully. Freeze portions or the entire dish before baking to have a ready-made meal for later. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed, keeping the flavors fresh and delicious.
Reheating
Reheat leftover casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly again. To keep the top from drying out, cover loosely with foil during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and chewier texture. Just be sure to cook it prior to mixing, and the casserole might be slightly heartier.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
You can swap the chicken for extra broccoli, mushrooms, or your favorite vegetables, and use a vegetarian cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup instead of cream of chicken soup.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time and bake later?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What if I don’t have sour cream on hand?
You can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise, which will provide a similar creaminess and tang to the dish.
How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Check the labels on your cream of chicken soup and any processed ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free, or use homemade alternatives. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe is a perfect blend of comfort and convenience that will quickly win over your heart and taste buds. Its creamy texture, cheesy richness, and wholesome ingredients make it a go-to dish for cozy nights and busy weeks alike. Give it a try, and you might find yourself returning to this recipe time and time again because nothing quite beats the warmth and satisfaction it brings to the table.
Print
Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and hearty Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole that combines tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, fresh steamed broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce baked to golden perfection. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for a family dinner and delivers a delicious blend of flavors and textures in every bite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter, for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with the tablespoon of butter to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the shredded cooked chicken, cooked rice, steamed broccoli florets, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until evenly combined.
- Add Cheeses: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese thoroughly to incorporate all the flavors and provide a rich, cheesy texture.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly to ensure uniform baking.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Bake until the casserole is bubbly, the cheese is melted, and the top is slightly golden.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot for a satisfying and delicious meal.
Notes
- Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Steaming broccoli before adding ensures it cooks fully in the casserole without becoming mushy.
- You can substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor.
- For extra crunch, top with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking.
- This casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
