Go Back

Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole

This comforting casserole combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and nutritious broccoli smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, it's a complete meal that reheats beautifully for next-day lunches.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or cubed
  • 3 cups cooked rice white or brown, prepared according to package directions
  • 2 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen, lightly steamed (or thawed and drained if using frozen)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for a tangier option
  • ½ cup milk or a plant-based alternative for dairy-free version
  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese divided; use 1 cup in the mix and the remaining ½ cup for topping
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs optional, for topping
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter optional, to mix with breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large bowl
  • Whisk
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Prepare the rice according to package directions and lightly steam the broccoli florets until just tender. If using frozen broccoli, be sure to thaw and drain it well.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and milk until smooth.
  4. Season the mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Gently fold in the cooked chicken, rice, broccoli, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until the ingredients are evenly combined.
  6. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
  7. For an extra crunchy topping, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and scatter the mixture over the cheese.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the edges are turning a golden brown.
  9. Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before serving to let it set slightly.

Notes

This casserole is a comforting, versatile one-dish meal perfect for busy weeknights. You can easily adapt the recipe by swapping proteins or adding extra vegetables. The breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch, and the dish reheats wonderfully for leftovers. For a dairy-free option, simply substitute the milk and cheese with plant-based alternatives.