Irresistible Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole

Name: Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 2 cups fresh broccoli florets; 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup sour cream

Recipe By:

Howdy

Posted:

October 4, 2025

Updated:

October 4, 2025

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The aroma of a creamy chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole wafting through your kitchen can make anyone’s mouth water. Picture this: tender chicken, vibrant green broccoli, and fluffy rice enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce that screams comfort food. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm hug after a long day.

This recipe isn’t just about satisfying your hunger; it’s about creating memories. I remember the first time I made this casserole while trying to impress my friends during college. Spoiler alert: they were impressed, and I still hold the title of “Casserole Queen” in our friend group. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a potluck with friends, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Get ready for an amazing flavor experience!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This creamy chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole is easy to whip up, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
The rich flavors meld beautifully, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Its vibrant colors will brighten up any table setting, making it visually appealing.
Plus, it’s versatile—feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have at home!

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work perfectly, but adjust according to your crowd size.
Fresh Broccoli: A couple of cups of fresh broccoli florets add color and nutrition; frozen works too if you’re in a pinch.
Long-Grain White Rice: This fluffy rice serves as the base; make sure it’s uncooked when you add it to the casserole.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar gives that ooey-gooey texture and flavor we all love.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This pantry staple adds creaminess without needing hours in the kitchen.
Garlic Powder: Just a sprinkle of garlic powder enhances the overall flavor profile—trust me!
Onion Powder: A touch of onion powder elevates this dish and adds depth to each bite.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together—don’t skip these!

For the Sauce:

Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to keep control over salt levels while adding moisture.
Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and richness; plain Greek yogurt can be used as an alternative.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole

How to Make Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a nice baking dish (about 9×13 inches) and spray it with nonstick cooking spray so nothing sticks like glue.

Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients

Chop those chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season them generously with salt and pepper. If you have leftover rotisserie chicken lying around, feel free to use that instead; it saves time!

Step 3: Mix It Up

In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice, chopped chicken, fresh broccoli florets, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, chicken broth, and sour cream. Give it all a good stir—like you’re conducting an orchestra of flavors.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Now comes the fun part! Fold in about half of your shredded cheddar cheese into the mixture for that cheesy goodness throughout. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top for an irresistible golden crust.

Step 5: Bake It

Spread your glorious mixture into the prepared baking dish evenly. Cover it with aluminum foil (to prevent burning) and bake for about 45 minutes. Remove the foil after about half an hour so that cheesy layer can bubble up beautifully.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Once cooked through (you’ll know when the chicken is no longer pink), take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Transfer generous portions onto plates for everyone and watch those smiles appear!

Now that you’ve mastered this creamy chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole recipe, enjoy its comforting embrace while reminiscing about good times shared over hearty meals. Each bite is not just food; it’s an experience filled with nostalgia!

You Must Know

This creamy chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole is more than just a comforting dish; it makes weeknight dinners a breeze.
With its delightful blend of flavors, it’s sure to bring smiles around the dinner table.
Perfect for families and gatherings alike!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in those juicy flavors. While the chicken sizzles, cook the rice and prepare your creamy sauce. Finally, combine everything together for a harmoniously cheesy masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to add your favorite veggies, swap out the chicken for turkey, or use brown rice instead of white. Spice things up with some garlic powder or even a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, cover with foil in the oven or microwave until heated through to keep that creamy texture intact.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use leftover rotisserie chicken for quick prep without compromising flavor.
Make sure not to overcook the broccoli; you want it tender but still vibrant.
A sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving adds a pop of color and flavor!

Sharing this casserole recipe brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter echoed along with compliments about my cooking. It’s these moments that make every effort worthwhile!

FAQs:

What is the best way to store Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole?

To store your creamy chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Can I make Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare creamy chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole ahead of time. Assemble the dish as per the recipe instructions, but do not bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and adjust the cooking time if needed since it will be cold from the fridge.

Is there a vegetarian version of Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole?

Absolutely! For a vegetarian version of creamy chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole, substitute cooked chicken with chickpeas or your favorite plant-based protein. Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and use a good quality cheese alternative if desired. The flavors will still be delicious while offering a meat-free option that everyone can enjoy.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this casserole?

Yes, you can use brown rice instead of white rice in creamy chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole. Keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time compared to white rice. You might need to adjust your cooking method slightly by pre-cooking the brown rice before adding it to the casserole for even results.

Conclusion for Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole:

Creamy chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole is a delicious and comforting dish perfect for family dinners. With its rich combination of flavors and textures, this recipe is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Storing leftovers is simple, making it ideal for meal prep or make-ahead meals. Whether you choose to customize it with veggies or stick with the classic ingredients, this casserole will surely please everyone at your table. Enjoy this hearty meal and savor every bite!

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