Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole: A Creamy, Comforting Family Favorite

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and full of flavor. This one-dish wonder combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant broccoli in a cheesy sauce, all baked to perfection. It’s a wholesome meal that’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or meal prep. Plus, it’s a great way to get your vegetables in without sacrificing taste!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole has everything you could want in a comforting meal: protein-packed chicken, nutrient-rich broccoli, and fluffy rice all coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s simple, budget-friendly, and customizable. You can prepare it ahead of time, freeze it for later, or adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences. Best of all, it’s a one-pan meal, which means fewer dishes and more time to relax.

Health Benefits of Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Not only is this dish delicious, but it also provides a balanced meal with essential nutrients. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, broccoli is packed with fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants, while rice provides the carbohydrates needed for energy. By using low-fat cheese and cream options, you can make this recipe even healthier without compromising flavor.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or wild rice)
3 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed and drained)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup (240ml) sour cream or Greek yogurt
2 cups (225g) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted (divided)
1/2 cup (50g) crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: 1/4 tsp paprika for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. If using fresh broccoli, blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Casserole Base

In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Pour the chicken broth over the top to keep the casserole moist during baking. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers (or breadcrumbs) with the melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are well coated. Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole for a crunchy finish.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, the topping is golden brown, and the casserole is heated through and bubbling at the edges. For a crispier topping, broil for the last 2-3 minutes while watching closely to prevent burning.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set. Sprinkle with paprika for a touch of color and extra flavor. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken, broccoli, and perfectly cooked rice.

Tips for Success

Use pre-cooked ingredients: Rotisserie chicken and pre-cooked rice make this dish come together quickly.
Customize the cheese: Try mozzarella for a gooey texture or Gruyère for a nutty flavor.
Add extra vegetables: Incorporate peas, mushrooms, or spinach for more nutrients and variety.
Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and bake when ready to serve.
Freezer-friendly: This casserole freezes well. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with:

A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette.
Garlic bread or dinner rolls for a hearty meal.
Steamed vegetables like carrots or green beans for added freshness.

Variations to Try

Looking to switch things up? Here are some tasty variations:

Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
Healthier twist: Use brown rice and low-fat cheese and replace sour cream with Greek yogurt.
Herb infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or basil for a fresh flavor boost.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is the perfect all-in-one meal that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with wholesome ingredients. It’s comforting, satisfying, and simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for a potluck or family gathering. With its creamy texture, cheesy topping, and flavorful filling, this casserole is bound to become a regular on your dinner table. Try it today and discover why it’s a family favorite!