Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting dish that brings together tender pieces of chicken, bright green broccoli, and creamy rice all baked into one delicious meal. It’s the kind of dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, with a great mix of textures from the soft rice and chicken to the slight crunch of the broccoli. The cheesy sauce ties everything together, making it satisfying and filling for the whole family.
I love making this casserole when I want something easy but still packed with flavor. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how flexible it is—you can swap out the chicken for turkey or add extra veggies if you want. It’s also a great weeknight meal because you throw everything in a dish and let the oven do the work while you relax or catch up on other tasks.
When I serve this casserole, I like to pair it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to round out the meal. It’s perfect for leftovers too, and reheats nicely for lunch the next day. This dish always reminds me of cozy family dinners when we’d gather around the table, enjoying good food and even better company. It’s one of those meals that feels homemade in the best way possible.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using cooked chicken breast works best as it stays tender and juicy. Rotisserie chicken is a quick shortcut if you’re short on time. You can swap with turkey or tofu for a different protein.
Broccoli: Fresh or frozen florets both work well. Fresh steamed broccoli brings a firmer texture, while frozen is convenient and just as tasty after thawing.
Rice: White rice is traditional, but you can use brown rice or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Cook the rice ahead for best texture.
Cream Soup: Cream of mushroom or chicken soup gives a creamy, cozy base. If you want a homemade swap, mix cream and broth with a little flour for thickening.
Cheese: Cheddar adds great flavor and melts nicely. Try sharp for a stronger taste or mild if you prefer something gentler. Other melting cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella can be tasty too.
How Do I Get the Broccoli Tender but Not Mushy?
It’s important to cook the broccoli just right so it’s soft but still holds its shape.
- If fresh, steam or blanch the florets for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
- For frozen broccoli, thaw and drain well to avoid extra moisture watering down the casserole.
- Don’t skip this step—adding raw broccoli can make it mushy or undercooked after baking.
This way, the broccoli stays vibrant and adds pleasant texture to your casserole.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – I like it because it’s the perfect size to hold all the ingredients comfortably.
- Large skillet – useful for sautéing onions and garlic; it makes prep easier and keeps flavors contained.
- Mixing bowl – for blending the sauce ingredients and combining everything together.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your ingredients just right and consistent.
- Oven – to bake the casserole until golden and bubbly; simple, essential, and reliable.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked turkey or ham instead of chicken for a different protein flavor.
- Mix in shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese for a creamier, milder taste.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or chopped bell peppers for extra vegetables and flavor.
- Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
How to Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 3 cups cooked white rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- ½ cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley or fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25 to 30 minutes to bake. You’ll also need a few minutes for steaming the broccoli if you use fresh, and a short resting time after baking. All together, plan for around 45 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Dish
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook Broccoli
If you’re using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch the florets for 3-4 minutes until they’re just tender but still bright green. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain well so it doesn’t add extra moisture.
3. Sauté Onion and Garlic
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion (if you’re using) and garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until they soften and smell delicious.
4. Mix the Sauce
In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), milk, salt, pepper, and parsley. Stir everything together until smooth.
5. Combine All Ingredients
Add the cooked rice, cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce. Stir gently until all the ingredients are well coated and mixed evenly.
6. Assemble and Bake
Transfer the mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top. Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese has melted.
7. Rest and Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps everything set slightly and makes it easier to serve. Then, dish it out and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli in This Casserole?
Yes! Just thaw and drain the frozen broccoli well before adding it to the casserole to avoid excess moisture. No need to cook it beforehand since it will bake in the oven.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it a few extra minutes until hot and bubbly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I Substitute the Cream Soup?
Yes, if you prefer, you can make a homemade white sauce using butter, flour, milk, and chicken broth or use cream of chicken soup instead. This can make the casserole even more flavorful!
