Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole: A Classic Comfort Dish

When you’re in the mood for something warm, hearty, and comforting, there’s nothing quite like a casserole. The Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is the perfect combination of rich, creamy flavors, healthy vegetables, and tender chicken. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even meal prep for the week. It’s packed with flavor and easy to customize to suit your taste preferences.

The combination of broccoli, rice, chicken, and cheese creates a balanced dish that is filling and satisfying. The casserole comes together quickly with the help of pantry staples like cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soups, making it not only convenient but also a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the recipe and get cooking!

Ingredients for Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

Main Ingredients:

2 cups water: For cooking the rice.

2 cups uncooked rice: The base of the casserole, providing bulk and a soft texture.
1 (10-ounce) can of cream of chicken soup: Adds creaminess and flavor to the dish.
1 (10-ounce) can of cream of mushroom soup: Complements the cream of chicken soup, adding richness.

2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded: You can use rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken.
¼ cup butter: Adds richness and flavor to the casserole.
1 cup of milk: Helps to make the casserole creamy and smooth.

1 small white onion, diced: Adds a sweet and savory flavor to the dish.
16 ounces broccoli pieces: Frozen or fresh, these add nutrition and texture to the casserole.
2 cups Cheddar cheese, shredded: For that irresistible cheesy goodness!

Optional Ingredients:

Garlic powder or onion powder: For an extra boost of flavor.
Red pepper flakes: If you like a little heat, sprinkle these on top before serving.
Breadcrumbs or crushed crackers: If you want a crunchy topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the casserole before baking.

How to Make Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Cook the Rice

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the rice according to the package instructions. Usually, this involves bringing 2 cups of water to a boil, adding the rice, reducing the heat, and simmering for about 20 minutes until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Mixture

In a large 9×13-inch baking pan, add the cooked rice and 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken. Make sure the chicken is evenly distributed throughout the dish.
Add the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and ¼ cup of butter to the rice and chicken mixture.
Stir in the broccoli pieces and diced onion. If you’re using frozen broccoli, there’s no need to thaw it first—just toss it in.
Add 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese to the mixture and stir everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Bake the Casserole

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. During this time, the flavors will meld together, and the casserole will start to bubble around the edges.

Step 4: Add the Cheesy Topping

In the last few minutes of baking, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese over the top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake until the cheese has melted and turned golden, about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Let the Casserole Rest and Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to sit for 5 minutes before serving. This gives the casserole time to set, making it easier to slice and serve.
Pair the casserole with a fresh dinner salad or some warm breadsticks for a complete meal.
Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Tips for Making the Best Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

Use rotisserie chicken: For added convenience and flavor, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s perfectly seasoned and will save you time.
Frozen or fresh broccoli?: Both work! If using frozen broccoli, you can add it directly to the casserole without thawing. If you prefer a firmer texture, use fresh broccoli florets.
Pre-cook the onion: For a sweeter, more mellow flavor, sauté the diced onion in a little butter before adding it to the casserole.
Cheese options: While Cheddar cheese is the classic choice, you can mix in or substitute other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Mozzarella, or Colby for different flavor profiles.
Make it a one-pot meal: If you have an oven-safe skillet, you can sauté the onions and mix all the ingredients in the same pan, saving time on cleanup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes, and then bake as directed.

2. Can I freeze this casserole?

Absolutely. To freeze, assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

3. Can I use instant rice in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute instant rice for regular rice. Just follow the package instructions to prepare the rice before adding it to the casserole.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.

5. Can I substitute the cream soups?

Yes! If you’re not a fan of canned soups or want a healthier option, you can make a homemade cream sauce using butter, flour, and chicken or vegetable broth. It will give the same creamy texture without the processed ingredients.

6. What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole is hearty on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or breadsticks. If you’re feeling indulgent, serve it with garlic bread for an extra treat!

Conclusion

This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. It’s warm, cheesy, and packed with wholesome ingredients like chicken, broccoli, and rice. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or making a dish to share at a potluck, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, and the leftovers taste even better the next day!

So, grab your ingredients and get ready to bake up a cozy, satisfying meal that your whole family will love.