There’s nothing quite like a cozy casserole that delivers on taste, comfort, and ease. This one-pot chicken broccoli rice casserole checks all the boxes. It’s creamy, cheesy, loaded with protein, and best of all, it comes together in one dish—meaning less clean-up and more time to relax after dinner. This is the ultimate quick chicken casserole for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re a fan of comfort food that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, then this chicken broccoli rice casserole is perfect for you. This dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and crisp broccoli, all smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce. And because it’s made in just one pot, you’ll save time on both cooking and cleaning. You can also customize the recipe with different seasonings or add-ins like mushrooms or bacon for a unique twist.
Looking for more delicious ideas? Pair this casserole with a side of smoked BBQ chicken thighs for an unforgettable dinner combo.
Ingredients for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
To make this satisfying casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of cooked chicken (rotisserie or leftover chicken works great)
- 1 ½ cups of uncooked white rice (long grain or jasmine rice)
- 2 cups of broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- 1 cup of milk (for a creamier sauce, use whole milk)
- 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup (or substitute with homemade sauce)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- ½ teaspoon of garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon of onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your preferences. For a healthier version, try using brown rice, low-fat milk, and reduced-fat cheese. For a gluten-free casserole, make sure to use a gluten-free cream soup or make your own.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and hearty casserole:
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
If you’re starting with raw chicken, heat the olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 6-8 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and shred or dice it.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
In the same pot, add the chicken broth, milk, and rice. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the rice cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Add the Broccoli and Chicken
Once the rice is nearly cooked, stir in the broccoli florets and the cooked chicken. The broccoli will steam and become tender as the rice finishes cooking. Cover the pot again and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
Step 4: Mix in the Cheese and Soup
Once the broccoli and rice are done, stir in the cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and any additional seasonings. Stir until the cheese is melted and everything is combined into a creamy mixture.
Step 5: Bake (Optional)
For a crispier top, transfer the casserole to a greased baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Here are some tips to ensure your chicken broccoli rice casserole turns out perfect every time:
- Choose the right rice: Long grain white rice works best for this recipe because it absorbs the liquid and becomes fluffy without becoming mushy.
- Don’t overcook the broccoli: If you’re using fresh broccoli, add it toward the end of the cooking process to ensure it remains crisp-tender. Overcooking can result in mushy broccoli, which can affect the texture of the dish.
- Add a crunchy topping: For extra texture, consider topping the casserole with breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or fried onions before baking.
- Use rotisserie chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken. It makes the process quicker without sacrificing flavor.
Variations of the Casserole
One of the best parts of this recipe is its versatility. Here are some fun variations you can try:
- Bacon and Mushroom Casserole: Add cooked bacon bits and sautéed mushrooms to the casserole for an extra layer of flavor.
- Cheesy Ranch Casserole: Stir in a packet of ranch seasoning and use a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for a cheesy, tangy twist.
- Mexican-Inspired Casserole: Add a can of diced tomatoes and green chilies, swap out the cheddar for Monterey Jack cheese, and top with tortilla chips for a Tex-Mex variation.
Feel free to get creative with the ingredients and make this one-pot meal your own.
Serving Suggestions
While this casserole is filling on its own, you can serve it alongside a few sides to round out your meal:
- Simple Green Salad: A light and refreshing salad helps balance the richness of the casserole.
- Garlic Bread: For a comforting side, serve with warm garlic bread or dinner rolls.
- Steamed Vegetables: Add a side of steamed or roasted vegetables to boost the nutritional content of the meal.
For an even more indulgent meal, pair this casserole with smoked BBQ chicken thighs to impress your guests.
How to Store and Reheat Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
If you have leftovers, here’s how to store them for later:
- In the fridge: Store the casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- In the freezer: You can also freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Be sure to wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
Reheating Instructions:
- Microwave: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
- Oven: To reheat the entire casserole, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
FAQs About Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
- Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
- Yes! Just keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you’ll need to adjust the cooking time.
- Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
- Absolutely. Use a gluten-free cream soup or make your own by thickening broth with cornstarch.
- Can I substitute other vegetables?
- Definitely. Cauliflower, spinach, or peas work well in this casserole.
- How do I avoid mushy rice?
- Be sure to use the correct rice-to-liquid ratio and avoid overcooking the rice.
- Can I make this casserole in advance?
- Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and bake it when ready.
- Can I use frozen broccoli?
- Frozen broccoli works great. Just thaw it before adding it to the casserole to avoid excess moisture.
- What other cheeses can I use?
- Sharp cheddar is traditional, but you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even Parmesan.
- Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
- Yes, it freezes well. Make sure to cool it completely before freezing and store it in an airtight container.