This cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole is the ultimate comfort food you’ve been craving. With tender chicken, fresh broccoli, fluffy rice, and loads of melted cheese, it’s creamy, crunchy, and absolutely irresistible. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish is hearty, delicious, and kid-approved!
There’s just something magical about a warm casserole coming out of the oven. It feels like a hug on a plate, doesn’t it? That’s exactly why I love making cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole.
This recipe has everything a cozy dinner should: juicy chicken, crisp broccoli, fluffy rice, and of course, gooey cheese that stretches with every bite. To top it off, you get that golden, crunchy topping that makes the whole dish sing.
It’s quick to put together, family-friendly, and great for meal prep. If casseroles are your love language, you’ll also enjoy this cozy twist on a cheesy chicken and rice casserole that’s just as creamy and satisfying. Let’s walk through everything you need to know to make this comforting classic.
Table of contents
Main Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
To make this cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole, you’ll need a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients that come together beautifully. Each one plays its part in building the rich flavor and creamy texture we all love.
- Cooked Chicken (2 cups, diced)
Rotisserie chicken works perfectly here. It’s juicy, flavorful, and saves so much time. You can also use any leftover cooked chicken. - Broccoli Florets (2 cups)
Fresh broccoli adds color, crunch, and nutrition. Break it down into bite-sized pieces so it blends well in each scoop of casserole. - Cooked Rice (2 cups)
White rice is the classic choice, but brown rice or even jasmine rice can work. It gives structure and soaks up all the creamy goodness. - Cream of Chicken Soup (1 can)
This creates the base of the creamy sauce. Go for low-sodium or Healthy Request versions if you’d like to keep it lighter. - Shredded Cheese (1 ½ cups)
Cheddar is my go-to for this recipe. It melts perfectly and adds that sharp, cheesy punch. - Mayonnaise (½ cup)
Mayonnaise adds creaminess and body to the sauce. If you’re not a fan, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. - Crushed Corn Flakes (½–¾ cup)
These bring the perfect crunch to the top layer. You’ll mix them with butter for a golden finish. - Butter (2 tbsp, melted)
Melted butter helps the corn flakes crisp up beautifully in the oven.
These main ingredients are the foundation of the dish, and when combined, they create a casserole that’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying.
For a lighter spin, you can check out my healthy chicken stir fry rice recipe, where rice and veggies come together in a fresh, flavorful way.
Additional Ingredients
Want to give your cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole a little twist? These add-ons and substitutions can make it extra special:
- Onions and Garlic: Sauté some onions and garlic for a flavor boost.
- Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms for a meaty texture and earthy taste.
- Carrots or Peas: Toss in some extra veggies to sneak more nutrition into each bite.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: Swap out the cream of chicken for a slightly different, savory base.
- Different Cheeses: Mix in mozzarella, pepper jack, or even parmesan for variety.
- Crunchy Toppings: Instead of corn flakes, try panko breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers for a buttery crunch.
These additions allow you to make the recipe your own, depending on what’s in your fridge or pantry.
Expert Tips for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Now let’s chat about some little tricks to make your cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole the best it can be. These tips come from years of making casseroles that had my kids coming back for seconds.
- Use Freshly Cooked Rice: Leftover rice can sometimes dry out in the oven. If you have the time, cook a fresh batch. Fluffy rice absorbs the sauce better, giving you that creamy bite every time.
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Blanch or steam your broccoli for just 2–3 minutes. You want it tender but still bright green. Overcooked broccoli can turn mushy once baked.
- Balance the Sauce: If you like your casseroles extra creamy, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to the mixture before baking. It’ll keep the dish moist without overpowering the flavors.
- Choose the Right Cheese: Sharp cheddar is classic, but don’t be afraid to mix things up. A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack melts beautifully and gives you that irresistible cheese pull.
- Get Creative with Toppings: Corn flakes are traditional, but crushed buttery crackers, tortilla chips, or even seasoned breadcrumbs can add fun crunch and flavor.
- Make It Ahead: This casserole is perfect for meal prep. Assemble everything up to the topping, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add the topping before baking.
- Freezer Friendly: Want to save some for later? Freeze the unbaked casserole (without the topping) for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, add the topping, and bake as usual. It’s just like how I prep my dreamy chicken and rice dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Portion It Out: If you’re cooking for just one or two people, divide the mixture into smaller baking dishes. You can freeze one for later and bake the other right away.
These tips will ensure your casserole comes out delicious, creamy, and perfectly golden every time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to get cooking? Here’s how to make cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole from start to finish:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Prepare the Broccoli: Steam or blanch broccoli florets for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender. Drain well.
- Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, broccoli, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Stir until creamy and well blended.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheese on top.
- Add the Topping: Mix the crushed corn flakes with melted butter. Sprinkle this over the cheese layer for that golden crunch.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Serve: Let it cool slightly, then dig in! Scoop generous servings onto plates and enjoy the cheesy goodness.
Additional Guide
There are endless ways to make this cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole fit your taste and lifestyle.
- Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick.
- Low-Carb Version: Swap rice for cauliflower rice. You’ll cut the carbs but keep the comfort.
- Kid-Friendly Twist: Mix in a handful of macaroni for a fun pasta-casserole hybrid.
- Healthier Option: Use brown rice, reduced-fat cheese, and plain Greek yogurt instead of mayo.
- Party Style: Bake the casserole in individual ramekins for cute single servings.
If you’d like to explore something with a little more Latin flair, give my arroz con pollo Costa Rica a try. It’s hearty, colorful, and full of authentic flavors.
FAQs about Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Yes! Just whisk together 1 cup of milk, 2 tbsp of flour, and 2 tbsp of butter for a homemade creamy base.
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot. Some readers ask if they can skip the broccoli or swap it for other veggies. If you prefer a simpler version, my chicken broccoli rice casserole might be just what you’re looking for.
Conclusion
There you have it, a comforting, family-friendly cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole that’s as easy as it is delicious. With tender chicken, creamy sauce, gooey cheese, and a crispy topping, this dish really does check all the boxes.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or just because you’re craving comfort food, this casserole is sure to win hearts. And the best part? It’s flexible enough to tweak and make your own.
So grab your favorite casserole dish, gather the ingredients, and give this recipe a try. Trust me, your kitchen will smell amazing, and your family will be asking for seconds before the pan even hits the table. And if you’re in the mood for a single-pot wonder, my one-pot chicken and dirty rice is another family favorite that packs big flavor with minimal cleanup.
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Equipment
- 9×13 baking dish
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced cooked chicken rotisserie chicken works best
- 2 cups broccoli florets bite-sized pieces
- 1 can cream of chicken soup use low-sodium or Healthy Request
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese cheddar works great
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2–3/4 cup crushed corn flakes for topping
- 2 tbsp butter melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, broccoli florets, cream of chicken soup, cooked rice, shredded cheese, and mayonnaise.
- Mix everything until well combined and spread evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix the crushed corn flakes with melted butter, then sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Remove from oven, let it cool slightly, and serve warm.
Notes
You’ll also like…
