Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

When you need a comforting, family-friendly dinner that’s easy to whip up, this Chicken and Broccoli Casserole hits the spot. Juicy chicken, fresh broccoli, and gooey cheddar cheese come together with creamy rice in a savory blend of garlic and onion that’s going to please everyone at the table. It’s a straightforward recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a delicious, hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights.

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This really is one of my favorite go-to recipes; it takes just 10 minutes of prep, and then you let the oven do all the work. You can make it ahead, so all you have to do is pop it in the oven after a long day. But even though it’s on my menu rotation, it’s still special enough to serve at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter. It’s also a fantastic dish to take along to a potluck. Give it a try; I think you’ll like it as much as I do!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll need all the ingredients in the photograph below.

How to make Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli and Rice Casserole with Step-By-Step Instructions

Scroll down for the full recipe card containing a full printable recipe and measurements in both US customary and metric units.

Whipping up this cheesy, delicious Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is a breeze. Here’s how you can have it bubbling away in your oven before you know it.

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 180ºC (350°F). Grease a casserole dish to make sure nothing sticks, and everything comes out perfectly.

Prepare the Mixture

In a large bowl, mix together the rice, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to your liking. Mixing everything well will ensure even flavors throughout the dish.

Assemble the Casserole

Pour the rice mixture into your greased casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Next, add the diced chicken and chopped broccoli florets on top.

Gently push them into the mixture so they are partially submerged, ensuring they cook evenly.

Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish with foil to keep all the moisture in, and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This step allows everything to cook through without drying out.

Add the Cheese and Finish Baking

After 30 minutes, take the casserole out of the oven, uncover it, and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top. Put it back in the oven, uncovered, for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the casserole is done baking, let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to serve and enhance the flavors. Top it off with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of ground black pepper.

Enjoy the cheesy, comforting goodness of your Chicken and Broccoli Casserole!

Recipe Notes and Expert Tips

To make your Chicken and Broccoli Casserole even better, check out these handy tips:

• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap the broccoli with other veggies like cauliflower, peas, or carrots. This casserole is versatile, so use what you have on hand.
• Cheese Choices: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can mix it up with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• Pre-Cook Your Chicken: If you prefer, you can pre-cook the chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked through. Just sauté the diced chicken in a pan with a bit of oil before adding it to the casserole.
• Rice Varieties: Long grain white rice works well, but you can also use brown rice for a healthier twist. Just note that brown rice might need a bit more liquid and a longer cooking time.
• Make-Ahead Meal: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated. When you’re ready to bake, just add an extra 10 minutes to the covered baking time.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
• Add a Crunchy Topping: For added texture, sprinkle some breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top during the final 10 minutes of baking. This adds a delightful crunch to every bite.
• Herbs for Freshness: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme right before serving to add a burst of fresh flavor.

How to Store Leftover Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

Properly storing leftovers lets you enjoy this tasty casserole even on hectic days when you don’t have time to cook from scratch. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Freeze: You can also freeze this casserole for longer storage. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This makes it easy to have a ready-to-go meal for busy days.

What to Serve with Chicken Broccoli Casserole

When serving Chicken and Broccoli Casserole, you’ll want sides that complement its rich, creamy flavors. Garlic bread is always a winner, offering warm, buttery goodness that pairs perfectly with the cheesy casserole. A crisp Caesar salad can add a fresh, crunchy contrast, while smooth and creamy mashed potatoes make for an unbeatable comfort food combo.

For something lighter, steamed or sautéed green beans provide a healthy, vibrant side. Sweet and savory cornbread is another delightful addition, adding a bit of Southern charm to your meal.

If you’re looking for more variety, a mix of roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini adds color and flavor to your plate. Tangy coleslaw brings a crunchy texture that complements the rich casserole nicely, and soft dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.

For a touch of sweetness, a refreshing apple salad with nuts and cranberries can do wonders. Lastly, savory baked beans are a hearty side that rounds out the meal beautifully, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

More Casserole Recipes You Will Love

I’ve got many casserole recipes that will save the day for you!

• Crack Chicken Casserole
• Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
• Cowboy Casserole
• Biscuits and Gravy Casserole
• Hamburger Casserole