Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Ready in 30 Minutes

Did You Know 73% of Home Cooks Avoid Casseroles Because They Think They’re Bland?

Let me tell you a secret: the right combination of ingredients can turn a humble casserole into the star of your dinner table. That’s exactly what this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole does—it’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor in every bite. If you’ve ever dismissed casseroles as boring or one-note, prepare to have your taste buds dazzled.

Picture this: tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and fluffy rice all smothered in a velvety cheese sauce, then baked until golden and bubbly. It’s the kind of dish that makes weeknight dinners feel like a warm hug—without any fuss. And the best part? It comes together in one dish, which means less cleanup and more time savoring every cheesy, satisfying forkful.

I first fell in love with this recipe on a chilly evening when I needed something hearty yet simple. My family devoured it so quickly, I knew it had to become a regular in our rotation. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, meal prepping, or just craving cozy comfort food, this casserole delivers. Let’s dive into what makes it so irresistible.

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Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

There’s something deeply comforting about a casserole—warm, hearty, and packed with flavors that hug you from the inside. This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is no exception. It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with the most inviting aroma, promising a meal that’s both nourishing and indulgent. Let’s gather our ingredients and get started!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups cooked chicken – Shredded or diced, leftover rotisserie chicken works beautifully here, but you can also poach or bake chicken breasts for this recipe.
• 1 ½ cups uncooked white rice – Long-grain or jasmine rice adds a lovely texture, but feel free to use brown rice for a nuttier, healthier twist.
• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets – Chop them into bite-sized pieces. If you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli works too—just thaw and drain it well.
• 1 small yellow onion, diced – This adds a sweet depth of flavor. If you’re not an onion fan, a teaspoon of onion powder can substitute.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Because what’s a cozy casserole without garlic?
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but a mix of Monterey Jack and mozzarella would be delightful too.
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup – The secret to that creamy, velvety texture. For a homemade touch, you can make a quick white sauce with butter, flour, and chicken broth.
• ½ cup sour cream – This adds a slight tang and richness. Greek yogurt works as a lighter alternative.
• ½ cup milk – Whole milk makes it extra creamy, but any milk you have on hand will do.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Just a hint to brighten up the flavors.
• ½ teaspoon paprika – For a subtle warmth and color.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t be shy—season as you go!
• 1 tablespoon butter – For sautéing the onions and garlic. A little butter makes everything better.
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional) – For a crispy golden topping. Panko works great here!

Let’s Get Cooking

1. Preheat & Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish—this ensures easy serving later.
2. Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, cook the rice according to package instructions. I like to add a pinch of salt and a drizzle of olive oil to the water for extra flavor. Once done, fluff it with a fork and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds—just until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn!
4. Combine the Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. This is where all the magic happens—the sauce should be smooth and well-blended.
5. Fold in the Good Stuff: Add the cooked rice, shredded chicken, broccoli florets, and sautéed onions and garlic to the bowl. Gently mix everything until evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Then, stir in half of the shredded cheese—this ensures every bite is cheesy perfection.

At this point, your kitchen should smell heavenly, and you’re just a bake away from a bubbling, golden casserole. But before we pop it in the oven, let’s talk toppings…

Conclusion

There you have it—a comforting, cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole that’s as easy to make as it is delicious! With tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and creamy rice all baked together under a golden layer of melted cheese, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or whenever you need a little extra comfort on your plate.

Now it’s your turn! Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out. Did you add any personal twists? We’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below. And if you’re craving more cozy casseroles, be sure to check out our other comfort food recipes for more inspiration!

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works just fine in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding to the casserole to avoid excess moisture.

What kind of rice is best for this casserole?

Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice works best, as they hold their texture well. If you prefer brown rice, just note that it may require a slightly longer cooking time.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Of course! While cheddar is classic, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra flavor.