Comforting Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole wafting through the house, promising warmth and comfort in every bite. Picture this: tender chicken mingling with vibrant broccoli and fluffy rice, all enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce that practically begs for a spoon. It’s like a cozy hug on a plate, perfect for those days when you need a little extra love from your dinner.

I can still hear the delighted squeals of my kids as they dove into this dish on cold winter evenings. It became our go-to family favorite, making even the pickiest eaters ask for seconds. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a gathering with friends, this casserole never fails to impress with its creamy, cheesy goodness.

I remember one evening when I served this cheesy delight; my friend nearly swooned over her first bite, asking if I could cater her next party!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but feel free to adjust based on your needs.

• Fresh Broccoli: Choose bright green florets; they add color and crunch to your casserole.

• Long-Grain White Rice: This absorbs the flavors beautifully while maintaining its texture.

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for an extra kick; it melts beautifully and enhances flavor.

• Cream of Chicken Soup: This forms the base of the creamy sauce; opt for low-fat versions if preferred.

• Garlic Powder: A sprinkle adds depth; don’t skimp on this essential seasoning.

• Onion Powder: For that sweet onion flavor without the tears; it’s a kitchen miracle!

• Salt and Pepper: Always season to taste; these staples bring out all the flavors beautifully.

• Milk: To achieve that creamy consistency; whole milk works best but any kind can be used.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking throughout the casserole.

Prep Your Chicken and Veggies: Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and chop broccoli into small florets. Set them aside while we whip up some magic.

Cook the Rice: In a medium pot, cook rice according to package instructions until fluffy. The smell of cooking rice will already be delightful.

Create the Sauce Mixture: In a large bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Combine Everything Together: In the same bowl as your sauce mixture, add cooked rice, chicken pieces, and broccoli florets. Mix thoroughly so everything gets coated in that luscious sauce.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Transfer everything into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is not just comfort food; it’s an invitation to gather around the table with laughter and love. With its delightful combination of textures and flavors, it promises satisfaction in every mouthful. So grab your apron — dinner awaits!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the chicken first until golden brown. Then, prepare the rice and broccoli simultaneously while making the creamy sauce. This efficient sequence ensures everything is hot and fresh when combined.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out broccoli for spinach or add some crispy bacon bits for extra flavor. Experimenting with different cheeses can also elevate this dish to new cheesy heights.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring it remains creamy.

I remember the first time I made this casserole; my kids devoured it within minutes. Their laughter and satisfied smiles made me realize this recipe was destined to become a family favorite.

FAQ

Can I use frozen broccoli in this cheesy casserole?

Yes, you can definitely use frozen broccoli; just thaw and drain excess water first.

How do I make my casserole creamier?

To enhance creaminess, add more cream cheese or sour cream to the mixture.

What type of cheese works best for this recipe?

Cheddar cheese adds great flavor, but feel free to mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for variety.

Print

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

---

• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth to your table. This one-dish wonder combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and fluffy rice, all enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser that transforms family dinners into delightful gatherings, ensuring even the pickiest eaters ask for seconds.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup milk
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and chop the broccoli into small florets.
3. Cook the rice according to package instructions until fluffy.
4. In a large bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5. Add cooked rice, chicken pieces, and broccoli florets to the sauce mixture; stir until well combined.
6. Pour everything into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider substituting broccoli with spinach or incorporating crispy bacon bits. You can also experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a unique twist.