Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is pure, cozy comfort layered into every bite. It’s an all-in-one dish that combines juicy chunks of chicken, tender broccoli florets, fluffy rice, and plenty of gooey, melty cheese, all enveloped in a lusciously creamy sauce. Whether you’re looking for a family weeknight dinner, a potluck favorite, or a way to sneak more veggies onto your table, this casserole is always a home run. It’s hearty, rich, and honestly feels like a warm hug from your oven. Get ready for seconds—and maybe even thirds!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is that the ingredients are so simple, but each one is carefully chosen to bring out the best flavors and textures. From the crisp freshness of broccoli to the savory depth of rotisserie chicken, every element has a delicious role to play.

• Chicken: Use pre-cooked rotisserie or leftover chicken breast for quick prep and full flavor.
• Broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen broccoli both work; they add bright color and a tender-crisp bite.
• Cooked white rice: Day-old rice is perfect since it’s a bit dry and won’t get mushy.
• Cream of chicken soup: This classic shortcut creates the impossibly creamy base that ties everything together.
• Sour cream: Stir in for extra tang and richness in the sauce.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Bold, sharp cheddar melts beautifully on top and inside the casserole.
• Milk: Helps loosen and balance the sauce so it coats every grain and floret.
• Garlic powder: A pinch deepens flavor without dominating the dish.
• Onion powder: Enhances the savory, homey notes that make casseroles so irresistible.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for perfect seasoning throughout every bite.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you’re using fresh broccoli, blanch it in boiling water for about 2 minutes to lock in the bright green color and keep it perfectly crisp-tender. Drain well to avoid watery casserole. If you’re going with frozen, just let it thaw and drain excess moisture.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk it all together until smooth and creamy. This base is the heart of your Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole, bringing together all those savory, luscious flavors.

Step 3: Add the Chicken, Rice, and Broccoli

Fold in the diced chicken, cooked rice, drained broccoli, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. A gentle hand here keeps the rice fluffy and the broccoli from breaking down, ensuring every bite has the perfect balance of ingredients.

Step 4: Season and Assemble

Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste, then scoop the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Scatter the remaining cheddar cheese over the top—it creates that irresistible, bubbly golden crust everyone loves!

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide your casserole into the oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned, and the casserole is bubbling at the edges. Let it rest a few minutes after baking so everything sets up beautifully before you scoop out generous servings.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Garnishes

For that finishing touch, shower your casserole with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or thinly sliced green onions. A pinch of extra pepper or a scattering of crispy fried onions gives it that irresistible homemade flair—your guests will swoon at both the look and flavor.

Side Dishes

Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is filling on its own, but it pairs delightfully with a simple side salad tossed in a zippy vinaigrette, or some warm, crusty bread to mop up every creamy morsel. For a touch of freshness, try serving with a citrusy fruit salad or lightly steamed green beans.

Creative Ways to Present

Turning this classic crowd-pleaser into something special is easy! Serve individual portions in ramekins for a dinner party upgrade, or scoop the casserole into bell pepper halves and bake for a fun, colorful twist. Even leftovers can be tucked into wraps or turned into savory hand pies for lunches on the go.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole cools, cover it tightly with foil or transfer to airtight containers. It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it a beloved meal prep option. Every forkful stays creamy and delicious!

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. To freeze, let it cool completely, then double-wrap it with plastic wrap and foil or use a freezer-safe container. It holds up for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for dinner that tastes just as comforting and fresh as the day you made it.

Reheating

To recapture that creamy magic, reheat portions in the microwave or oven. If it looks a little dry, stir in a splash of milk before reheating to bring back the sauce’s silky texture. Covering the dish while warming helps retain moisture and keeps the cheese perfectly gooey.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Absolutely! Brown rice adds a lovely nutty flavor and extra fiber—it just might need a few more minutes of baking to heat through since it tends to be denser.

What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?

No worries! You can swap in cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a slightly different, but equally comforting vibe. If you’re feeling ambitious, making a quick homemade white sauce works too.

Is there a dairy-free version?

Yes! Use your favorite plant-based milk, dairy-free cheese, and a vegan cream soup or white sauce substitute. You’ll still get that creamy satisfaction without the dairy.

Can I add other veggies?

Definitely! Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is endlessly adaptable. Diced bell peppers, peas, carrots, or spinach all taste fantastic and add lovely color and nutrition to the mix.

How can I make it extra crispy on top?

Before baking, toss a handful of buttery breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on the casserole after the cheese. You’ll get a golden, crunchy topping that’s incredibly satisfying.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something irresistible about digging into a bubbling, cheesy Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole straight from the oven. It’s soulful, simple, and sure to bring everyone to the table with a smile. I hope you’ll fall in love with this favorite as much as we have—give it a try and watch it become an instant classic in your kitchen!

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