Description

The Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and fluffy rice all baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Easy to prepare and ideal for family meals or meal prepping, this casserole offers balanced nutrition with protein and vitamins, and a rich, satisfying flavor everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

2 cups cooked chicken breasts or thighs, shredded or diced

Vegetables

2 cups fresh broccoli florets (steamed or blanched)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

Base

2 cups cooked white or brown rice

Dairy and Sauce

1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
2 tablespoons butter

Seasonings

1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli: Cook the chicken until juicy and tender by either pan-searing or boiling. Once cooked, shred or dice the chicken. Meanwhile, steam or blanch the broccoli florets so they stay vibrant green and slightly crisp after baking.
Cook the Rice: Prepare your preferred rice according to package instructions until fluffy but not mushy. This will create the satisfying starchy base of the casserole.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and milk, combining thoroughly. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese while whisking, continuing to stir until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
Combine All Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, cooked rice, and cheese sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika, folding gently to evenly distribute all flavors.
Bake Until Golden and Bubbling: Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese on top to help form a golden crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and slightly browned on top.

Notes

Use day-old rice to prevent the casserole from becoming too mushy during baking.
Do not overcook the broccoli; slightly undercooked broccoli preserves the best texture after baking.
Choose sharp cheddar cheese for a bolder, more pronounced cheesy flavor.
Sauté onion and garlic to layer flavors and deepen the overall taste.
Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes after baking to let the sauce settle and help slices hold together better.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1 1/2 cups)
Calories: 420 kcal
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 560 mg
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 9 g
Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 30 g
Cholesterol: 75 mg

Keywords: chicken casserole, broccoli casserole, cheesy chicken bake, comfort food, easy dinner, one dish meal, family-friendly, meal prep