Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole: Comforting Family Meal

Name: Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound), diced; 2 cups fresh broccoli florets; 1 cup long-grain white rice, cooked; 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella mix); 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; ½ tsp paprika

By Maria Del

September 12, 2025

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Picture this: a bubbling, cheesy casserole filled with tender chicken, vibrant green broccoli, and fluffy rice. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, wrapping you in a warm embrace of creamy goodness. This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is more than just food; it’s comfort on a plate that makes your taste buds dance and your heart sing.

Now, let me take you back to a rainy Tuesday evening when I first made this dish. My family huddled around the table as the clouds drizzled outside, and I pulled this cheesy masterpiece from the oven. The smiles on their faces told me everything I needed to know—this was going to be a staple in our home for years to come.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, making dinner time stress-free
Its flavor profile is rich and creamy, perfect for any palate
The vibrant colors make it visually appealing on your dinner table
Versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences by simply swapping out ingredients

I remember my nephew’s eyes lighting up as he took his first bite, declaring it “the best thing ever.” Kids and adults alike can’t resist its charm.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well, but feel free to adjust based on your needs.
Fresh Broccoli Florets: Bright green and crisp florets add both flavor and nutrition; they should be fresh for the best texture.
White Rice: Long-grain or jasmine rice absorbs flavors beautifully; cook it according to package instructions before adding.
Shredded Cheese: A combination of cheddar and mozzarella creates gooeyness; choose freshly shredded for optimal melting.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This is the secret weapon for creaminess; opt for low-fat versions if you’re watching calories.
Garlic Powder: Just a sprinkle adds depth; fresh garlic works too if you’re feeling fancy!
Onion Powder: It enhances flavor without the fuss of chopping onions; perfect for lazy cooks like me!
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every bite; adjust to taste.
Paprika: A dash adds color and subtle smokiness; smoked paprika will kick it up a notch.

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

Let’s Make it together

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray so nothing sticks.

Cook the Rice: Prepare your rice according to package directions—fluff it gently on completion. The key is achieving that perfect tender yet firm texture that holds up in your casserole.

Add Chicken and Broccoli: In a large bowl, combine cooked rice with diced chicken breasts and fresh broccoli florets. Ensure even distribution so every bite has a bit of everything.

Create the Creamy Mixture: In another bowl, mix together cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, paprika, and half of your shredded cheese until smooth.

Combine Everything: Pour the creamy mixture over the rice-chicken-broccoli blend. Stir well until everything is coated in cheesy goodness—your kitchen will start smelling divine!

Bake Until Golden: Transfer everything into your prepared baking dish. Top with remaining cheese and bake for about 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Grab an oven mitt—this is where patience pays off!

Enjoying this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole isn’t just about eating; it’s about creating memories around the table. So why not gather your loved ones around? You’ll find joy not only in preparing but also sharing this comforting dish that brings everyone together.

You Must Know

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting dish that blends flavors and textures perfectly
The creamy sauce envelops tender chicken and crisp broccoli, making every bite a delightful experience
This recipe will become a beloved family favorite, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the rice while you sauté the chicken and steam the broccoli. This sequence maximizes efficiency and ensures everything is ready to combine at the same time.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or add different vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. Experimenting with various cheeses can also enhance the flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave until hot, or bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve a creamy texture, use full-fat cream cheese or sour cream
Always season each layer for depth of flavor, and let it rest before serving to enhance taste and texture

Cooking this cheesy delight reminds me of family dinners where everyone fought over seconds! My aunt would always bring her famous casserole, and I made it my mission to recreate that magic in my kitchen.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but adjust cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

What can I substitute for broccoli?

You can replace broccoli with cauliflower or even spinach for a different twist.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! Just ensure it’s well-sealed before freezing for optimal freshness.

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