Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole is a comforting, cozy dish that’s packed with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, fluffy rice, and lots of melty cheese all baked together in a creamy sauce. It’s the perfect mix of creamy, cheesy goodness with little bites of broccoli adding some freshness and a nice bit of crunch.
I love making this casserole when I want something warm and satisfying but also easy to throw together. It’s great because I can prep it ahead of time and just pop it in the oven, and it always comes out perfectly creamy without being too heavy. Plus, it’s one of those recipes that everyone seems to appreciate, especially when they’re craving a homemade, comforting meal.
My favorite way to serve this casserole is straight from the oven with a simple green salad on the side. The cheesy sauce and tender chicken feel like a little hug in a bowl, especially on a chilly day. It’s a great dish for family dinners or when friends come over because it’s filling but still feels special and homey.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using cooked chicken saves time. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut, but leftover roasted or boiled chicken works well too.
Rice: White rice is classic here for fluffiness. You can swap in brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier option, but they may change the texture slightly.
Broccoli: Fresh or frozen broccoli both work. Just make sure to drain frozen broccoli well to keep the casserole from getting watery.
Cheese: Cheddar brings that creamy, melty texture and sharp flavor. You can also mix in mozzarella for stretchiness or swap Parmesan with Asiago or Pecorino Romano.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and flavor. If you want lighter, use homemade or canned cream of mushroom soup, or try a thickened milk and broth sauce instead.
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: These add creaminess and tang. If you want it lighter, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and you can skip mayo or use a little extra yogurt instead.
How Do I Make Sure the Broccoli Stays Bright and Tasty?
Broccoli can go mushy or dull in color if overcooked, so pre-cooking it just right is key before mixing into the casserole.
- Steam or blanch fresh broccoli just until tender but still vibrant green, about 2-3 minutes.
- If using frozen broccoli, thaw it completely and drain excess water to avoid soggy casserole.
- Quickly cooling broccoli in cold water after blanching keeps that bright color.
- Add broccoli last to the mix to prevent it from breaking down too much during baking.
These steps help keep broccoli slightly crisp and colorful, adding a nice fresh contrast to the creamy casserole.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch casserole dish – perfect size for even cooking and makes serving easy.
- Large mixing bowl – helps you combine all ingredients without spilling.
- Skillet or sauté pan – great for cooking onions and garlic to add flavor.
- Measuring cups and spoons – keep your ingredient amounts accurate for best results.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – handy for mixing without scratching your pans.
- Steamer basket or pot with lid – ideal for steaming broccoli quickly to keep it bright and tender.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked turkey or shredded rotisserie duck for a twist and richer flavor.
- Add cooked mushrooms or diced bell peppers for extra veggies and a deeper taste.
- Use pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheese for a mild, creamy change with a bit of spice.
- Stir in some cooked bacon or ham pieces for a smoky, savory boost that pairs well with broccoli.
Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 30-35 minutes to bake. You’ll want to give it 5-10 minutes to rest after baking so it sets nicely before serving. Overall, you’re looking at about 50 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Broccoli:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray. If you’re using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch the florets until just tender but still bright green—this takes about 2-3 minutes. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain it well to prevent sogginess.
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
Heat the olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they are soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, broccoli, sautéed onion and garlic, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise (if using), milk, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme or Italian seasoning. Mix everything together until well blended. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the Parmesan cheese if you’re using it.
4. Assemble and Bake:
Pour the mixture into your greased casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top to get a nice cheesy crust. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top melts and turns golden.
5. Rest and Serve:
After baking, let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes to set before serving. This helps all the flavors settle and makes it easier to scoop. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, cheesy, comforting meal!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli in This Casserole?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well! Just be sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water to prevent the casserole from getting watery.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally for even heating.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you prefer, you can use cream of mushroom soup, or make a simple homemade white sauce using butter, flour, and milk for a fresher, lighter alternative.
