Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe: Best Comfort Food
Looking for a comforting, filling dish to satisfy your family’s cravings? Our Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is exactly what you need!
This easy-to-make, hearty meal combines chicken, broccoli, rice, and cheddar cheese for a creamy, savory dinner everyone will love.
Whether you’re using fresh chicken or leftover rotisserie, this casserole is a guaranteed hit.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chicken Breasts or Rotisserie Chicken
- Butter
- Olive Oil
- Chicken Broth
- White Long Grain Rice
- Broccoli Florets
- Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup
- Milk
- Sour Cream
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- Ritz Crackers (for a crispy topping)
Optional Seasonings:
- Italian Seasoning
- Salt & Pepper
- Thyme
- Garlic Powder
Pro Tip: Avoid using Minute Rice for a creamier, more flavorful dish. Long grain rice holds up better in casseroles and has a superior texture.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, skip this step and simply shred it. - Cook the Chicken
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Cook the chicken pieces until they turn golden brown. Once cooked, remove from the pot and set aside. - Cook the Rice
In the same pot, add olive oil, chicken broth, and white long grain rice. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 6 minutes. - Add Broccoli
Once the rice is half-cooked, add broccoli florets to the pot. Continue cooking for an additional 9 minutes or until the rice is tender, and all liquid has been absorbed. If using frozen broccoli, be sure to thaw and pat dry before adding. For a softer texture, consider steaming the broccoli for about 5 minutes before mixing it in. - Combine Ingredients
After the rice is cooked, remove the pot from heat. Let the rice sit for 10 minutes with the lid on. Then, add the cooked chicken, condensed cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir to combine. - Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the rice mixture into a lightly greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. - Bake the Casserole
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes. - Prepare the Ritz Cracker Topping
While the casserole is baking, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and crumble the Ritz crackers. Combine the melted butter and crushed crackers in a small bowl. After the casserole has baked for 15 minutes, remove the foil, add the Ritz cracker topping, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes. - Let it Rest
Allow the casserole to sit for 5 minutes before serving, so the flavors can settle and the dish can cool slightly.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Refrigeration: This casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Freezing: To freeze, assemble the casserole as directed, but do not bake it. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator for 24 hours, then bake as directed, adding 15 minutes to the baking time.
FAQs About Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Can I use brown or wild rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice or wild rice, but keep in mind that these varieties take longer to cook. Be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the rice packaging for proper liquid amounts and timing adjustments.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble this dish up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, let the casserole sit at room temperature for 30 minutes and then follow the baking instructions, adding 15 extra minutes to the bake time.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
You can easily substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom, cream of broccoli, or even a homemade version. For a cheesier option, try using cheddar cheese soup for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 511 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Protein: 23 g
- Fat: 33 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg
- Sodium: 1174 mg
- Potassium: 470 mg
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 3 g
- Vitamin A: 1068 IU
- Vitamin C: 35 mg
- Calcium: 376 mg
- Iron: 2 mg
Conclusion: Your Next Family Favorite!
This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dinner perfect for any night of the week. The cheesy topping combined with tender chicken and broccoli makes it a surefire family favorite.
Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping, freezing, and reheating for those busy weeknights.
Looking for more delicious casseroles? Check out our ham or ground beef casserole variations, or try out a classic Swedish Meatball dish next!
Reference Links
- How to Cook Chicken and Rice
- Nutritional Benefits of Broccoli
- Why Use Freshly Shredded Cheese?
- Cooking with Rotisserie Chicken