If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food dinner, this Broccoli Chicken Rice Cheese Casserole is creamy, cheesy, hearty, and packed with flavor. Tender chicken, fluffy rice, crisp broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese come together in one cozy casserole dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or family gatherings.
Inspired by classic chicken broccoli rice casseroles, this version combines rich cheddar flavor with creamy sauce and buttery crunchy topping for a satisfying homemade meal. Using long-grain rice helps create a creamy texture while broccoli adds freshness and color to every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy one-dish dinner
- Creamy and cheesy comfort food
- Great for meal prep and leftovers
- Family-friendly recipe
- Perfect use for rotisserie chicken
- Freezer-friendly casserole
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Topping
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Also Read: Roasted Broccoli Recipe
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish lightly with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
In a saucepan, combine rice, chicken broth, and olive oil. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and cook until the rice is partially cooked, about 10 minutes. This helps the rice finish cooking perfectly in the casserole.
Step 3: Prepare the Broccoli
Steam broccoli florets for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender but still bright green. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and pat dry before adding.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, mix together:
- Cream of chicken soup
- Sour cream
- Milk
- Garlic powder
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
- 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese
Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add cooked chicken, partially cooked rice, and broccoli into the cheese mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
Step 6: Add the Topping
Mix crushed crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle over the casserole along with the remaining cheddar cheese.
Step 7: Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Also Read: Bean Soup with Ham Recipe
Tips for the Best Casserole
- Freshly shredded cheese melts smoother than pre-shredded cheese.
- Rotisserie chicken saves prep time.
- Long-grain rice works best for creamy texture.
- Add crispy bacon for extra flavor.
- You can substitute cream of mushroom or broccoli soup if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs perfectly with:
- Garlic bread
- Side salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Dinner rolls
Also Read: Cut Sugar Cookie Recipe
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze tightly covered for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Bake at 350°F until warmed through or microwave individual portions.
Also Read: Coffee Cake Recipe
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 460 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fat | 24 g |
| Saturated Fat | 11 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 820 mg |
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.
