Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole Recipe

If you’re in the mood for a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole Recipe. It blends tender chunks of chicken, nutritious broccoli, and fluffy rice all baked together with a luscious, creamy cheese topping. The dish is simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and makes for a perfect weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings. It’s one of those stay-in-dinner recipes that taste like hours of effort but come together effortlessly. Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become a regular in your cooking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these straightforward yet essential ingredients is the first step to making magic happen with the Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole Recipe. Each ingredient plays a vital role in balancing taste, texture, and color—from the savory chicken broth that infuses flavor, to the sharp cheddar cheese that adds richness and melts beautifully.

• 2 cups chicken broth: Provides a flavorful, moist base that cooks the rice and chicken evenly.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory punch without overpowering the dish.
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances depth of flavor in the creamy mix.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Lends a mild, warming spice to keep the flavors lively.
• 1 pinch ground nutmeg (optional): Introduces a gentle warmth that complements the creamy elements.
• 10.5 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup: Brings creaminess and extra chicken flavor to the casserole; homemade works great too!
• 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked): The hearty base that soaks up all the savory juices while staying tender.
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cubed): Tender chunks of protein that blend perfectly with everything else.
• 10-12 ounces frozen broccoli florets: Adds vibrant color, crunch, and nutritional goodness.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or medium): The showstopper topping that melts to gooey, bubbly perfection.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Grease a Dutch oven, a 9×13-inch baking dish, or any casserole dish you have on hand with butter or nonstick spray. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and helps achieve a nice crust on the edges, adding texture and flavor.

Step 2: Create the Flavorful Broth Mixture

In a small bowl or large liquid measuring cup, whisk together the chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and an optional pinch of nutmeg. Next, stir in the condensed cream of chicken soup until everything is smooth and well combined. This creamy broth mixture is the heart of the casserole, infusing every bite with rich, savory goodness.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Add the uncooked rice and cubed chicken directly into the prepared dish. Pour the flavorful broth mixture evenly over the top, making sure the rice is submerged. Scatter the frozen broccoli florets across the mixture, then give everything a light stir just to combine all the ingredients evenly. This way, each mouthful will have a perfect balance of chicken, rice, and broccoli.

Step 4: Bake Covered Until Tender

Cover your dish tightly with its lid or aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, until the rice has absorbed the liquid, is tender, and the chicken is cooked through. The steam trapped inside cooks the broccoli and chicken to tender perfection while keeping moisture locked in.

Step 5: Add the Cheesy Finale

Once the baking time is up, remove the cover and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of your casserole. Return it to the oven uncovered for a few minutes, just enough for the cheese to melt into a bubbly, golden blanket that’ll pull everyone to the table with its irresistible aroma.

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole Recipe, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or chives right on top before serving. Not only do they add a pop of fresh color, but they also provide a mild, herbaceous lift that brightens the flavors beautifully. For a touch of crunch, consider lightly toasted breadcrumbs or slivered almonds sprinkled over the melted cheese.

Side Dishes

This casserole shines all on its own, but pairing it with crisp green salad or roasted root vegetables can offer a welcome contrast in texture and freshness. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls make excellent companions too, perfect for mopping up any cheesy sauce left on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming dinner presentation, serve individual portions in small ramekins topped with a sprinkle of extra cheese and a couple of broccoli florets. Another fun idea is to turn this casserole into stuffed bell peppers—fill halved peppers with the cooked mixture and bake until the peppers soften, giving you a vibrant and visually appealing twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for 3 to 5 days and makes for a fantastic next-day meal that tastes just as satisfying as when fresh.

Freezing

This casserole freezes wonderfully! After baking, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or wrapping it tightly in foil and plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, letting you enjoy this comforting dish whenever the craving strikes.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw frozen casserole overnight in the fridge, then warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through and bubbly again. For refrigerated leftovers, reheating individual portions in the microwave is quick and convenient—just cover with a microwave-safe lid to keep moisture locked in.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice works well but requires a longer cooking time and more liquid, so you may need to adjust your broth quantity and baking time accordingly to ensure it cooks fully.

Is it possible to make this casserole dairy-free?

Yes, swap the cheddar cheese for a dairy-free cheese alternative, and use a dairy-free cream soup or homemade base to keep it creamy without dairy products.

Can I substitute fresh broccoli for frozen?

You can, but frozen broccoli works best here as it cooks perfectly while baking and maintains a nice texture. If using fresh, blanch it briefly before adding to avoid undercooked veggies.

Would this recipe work with chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Definitely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor. Just make sure to cut them into uniform pieces and adjust the cooking time slightly if needed to ensure they’re thoroughly cooked.

Can I prepare this casserole vegetarian?

Of course! Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth, skip the chicken, and add extra veggies or plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu for a delicious vegetarian version that’s just as hearty.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole Recipe is pure comfort food at its finest — a dish that warms your kitchen with its aroma and your soul with each cheesy, savory bite. Simple ingredients combine effortlessly to create a meal that’s truly greater than the sum of its parts. I encourage you to dive in and make this recipe your own, whether for a cozy family dinner or a potluck that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the deliciousness and the joy it brings to your table!

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