This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s an easy, one-dish meal perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family gatherings. Made with tender chicken, fluffy rice, vibrant broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce, this casserole is guaranteed to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Simple ingredients – Uses pantry staples for a fuss-free meal.
✔ Creamy and cheesy – Loaded with melted cheddar for ultimate comfort.
✔ Make-ahead friendly – Assemble in advance and bake when ready.
✔ One-dish wonder – Fewer dishes, less cleanup!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie or leftover chicken works well)
• 2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
• 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets, chopped
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

Step 2: Cook the Rice and Broccoli

3. Cook 2 cups of rice according to package directions and set aside.
4. If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch it for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain excess moisture.

Step 3: Mix the Casserole Base

5. In a large bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
6. Add the cooked chicken, rice, and broccoli to the mixture. Stir everything together.
7. Fold in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, reserving the rest for topping.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

8. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
9. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top.

Step 5: Add the Topping (Optional)

10. If using a crunchy topping, mix crushed Ritz crackers (or breadcrumbs) with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

11. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
12. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

✔ Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
✔ Pair with crusty bread or garlic knots.
✔ Drizzle with hot sauce for extra heat!

Storage & Reheating

✔ Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
✔ Freeze: Wrap the casserole tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
✔ Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions.

Recipe Variations

✔ Make it healthier – Use brown rice, low-fat cheese, and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
✔ Swap the protein – Try shredded turkey, ham, or ground beef instead of chicken.
✔ Extra veggies – Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots for more flavor.
✔ Spicy kick – Stir in ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or hot sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use uncooked rice?

No, the rice needs to be pre-cooked before adding it to the casserole.

How do I prevent it from drying out?

Make sure to use enough liquid ingredients (sour cream, soup, milk) and don’t overbake.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is an easy, family-friendly dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try, and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal!

Would you like any adjustments to the recipe?