Easy Broccoli, Rice, Cheese & Chicken Casserole

When it comes to cozy, comforting dinners, few dishes deliver like a good casserole. And this Easy Broccoli, Rice, Cheese & Chicken Casserole hits all the right notes—creamy, cheesy, and loaded with wholesome ingredients like tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and fluffy rice. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day. Plus, it’s family-friendly, freezer-friendly, and ridiculously easy to make. If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner or a dish to bring to a potluck, this is your go-to recipe.

Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

This casserole is made with simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients that come together for a hearty, flavorful dish. Here are a few tips to get the most out of your ingredients:

• Chicken: Use pre-cooked chicken to save time—leftovers, rotisserie, or even grilled chicken breast work perfectly. Just make sure it’s shredded or diced.
• Rice: You can use either white or brown rice, but make sure it’s already cooked. Leftover rice from a previous meal? Even better!
• Broccoli: Both fresh and frozen broccoli are great here. Fresh broccoli should be briefly blanched or steamed until slightly tender, while frozen should be thawed and well-drained.
• Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the casserole a bold flavor, but you can switch things up with a blend of cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist.
• Cream Soup: Cream of chicken soup provides that creamy, comforting base. Prefer a homemade version? You can easily substitute it with a homemade roux-based white sauce.
• Sour Cream: Adds tang and creaminess. Greek yogurt works as a great lighter substitute.
• Parmesan Cheese: For extra richness and depth, Parmesan adds a subtle savory boost.
• Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of smoked paprika round out the flavor beautifully.
• Breadcrumbs and Butter (Optional): Want a golden, crispy top? A quick breadcrumb-butter topping adds a satisfying crunch.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven
First things first—set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is nice and hot when you’re ready to bake. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Cook the Broccoli
If you’re using fresh broccoli, blanch it in boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes until it turns bright green and just starts to soften. Drain it immediately and set it aside. For frozen broccoli, just thaw it and drain off any excess moisture.

Mix It All Together
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cooked rice, chicken, steamed broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, milk, and seasonings. Mix until everything is evenly coated in that luscious, creamy sauce.

Assemble the Casserole
Spoon the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula. If you love a crispy topping, stir together the breadcrumbs and melted butter, then sprinkle it over the top. Don’t forget a little extra cheddar for good measure—it’ll melt into a golden, cheesy layer.

Bake to Perfection
Slide the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until it’s hot, bubbly, and the top is beautifully golden. If you added breadcrumbs, they should be crisp and lightly browned.

Let It Rest and Serve
Once it’s out of the oven, give it a few minutes to settle before serving. This helps the casserole firm up slightly, making it easier to slice and serve. Top with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a burst of freshness and color.

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Tips and Tricks

Make It Ahead
Need a quick dinner solution for tomorrow? You can fully assemble this casserole ahead of time. Just cover it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. If it’s coming straight from the fridge, add 5 to 10 extra minutes to the baking time.

Lighter Options
Looking to lighten things up a bit? Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt, use low-fat cheese, or opt for a reduced-sodium cream soup. Brown rice is a great choice for extra fiber, and adding more veggies can help bulk up the nutrition without sacrificing flavor.

Go Vegetarian
Yes, this casserole can go meatless! Skip the chicken and toss in extra vegetables like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, peas, or even zucchini. For protein, add cooked lentils or a plant-based meat substitute. Use cream of mushroom or celery soup instead of cream of chicken.

Flavor Boosters
Want to add a little flair? Try any of these easy upgrades:

• A pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for heat
• A dash of Dijon mustard for tang
• A handful of sautéed onions or garlic
• A few sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for depth

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate
Once cooled to room temperature, cover the casserole tightly or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.

Freeze for Later
This casserole is a freezer champ. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or place portions in freezer-safe containers. It’ll stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating
To reheat a full casserole, cover it with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through (about 20–25 minutes). For individual servings, the microwave works well—just heat on high for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Always make sure it reaches 165°F for food safety.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is a full meal on its own, but a few thoughtful sides can really round things out:

• A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette
• Steamed green beans or roasted carrots
• Warm dinner rolls or garlic bread
• A simple fruit salad for a fresh, sweet finish

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Just use a gluten-free cream soup and swap regular breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version or skip them entirely.

Can I use canned chicken?
Absolutely. While freshly cooked chicken gives the best texture, canned chicken works in a pinch. Just drain it well and break it into smaller chunks.

How can I make this spicier?
Spice lovers can add chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a touch of cayenne pepper right into the mix. Pepper jack cheese also adds a nice kick.

How do I prevent the casserole from getting soggy?
Make sure your rice and broccoli are well-drained, and don’t overdo the milk or soup. A slightly thicker consistency in your mixture ensures a firmer final texture.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Broccoli, Rice, Cheese & Chicken Casserole is more than just a meal—it’s comfort in a dish. It’s warm, satisfying, and packed with the kinds of flavors that bring people to the table and keep them coming back for seconds. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or prepping meals to freeze, this casserole is the kind of recipe that makes life easier—and tastier.

You’ll love how simple it is to throw together, and once you taste that cheesy, creamy goodness, you’ll know why it’s a staple in so many kitchens. Try it once, and it just might become a regular in yours too!