Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole is the kind of dish that wraps you in a cozy hug after a long day. Imagine tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and perfectly cooked rice, all bathed in a dreamy, cheesy sauce that bubbles up beautifully in the oven.
This isn’t just dinner—it’s comfort food at its finest, the kind of meal that makes everyone at the table pause mid-bite and say, “Wow, this is good.” Whether you’re juggling a busy workweek or wrangling picky eaters, this Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole is your ticket to a no-fuss, family-approved dinner that’s hearty, delicious, and yes—totally comforting.
Table of Contents
What is Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole?
This casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dish that brings together the best of everything you love about comfort food. At its core, it’s a simple mix of cooked chicken, broccoli florets, and rice, bound together with a velvety blend of cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and melty cheeses.
The magic happens in the oven—everything melds into a bubbly, golden masterpiece that’s equal parts savory and soothing. Think of it as the ultimate “clean out the fridge but make it delicious” dinner. Whether you’re feeding your family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish hits all the right notes—flavorful, filling, and wonderfully easy to throw together.
Reasons to Try Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole
There are countless reasons why this Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole deserves a spot in your weekly rotation. First, it’s unbelievably easy—no complicated steps or exotic ingredients. Just wholesome staples you probably already have. Second, it’s a hit with everyone, from toddlers to grandparents.
The creamy texture, mild flavors, and gooey cheese make it a crowd-pleaser. Third, it’s a one-pan wonder, meaning fewer dishes (hallelujah!). Plus, you can make it ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when you’re ready. Busy moms, this one’s for you. If you loved our Classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe or the Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping, this comforting bake will feel like a natural (and delicious) next step.
Ingredients Needed to Make Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 3 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
- 1 cup uncooked rice (preferably long-grain like Basmati or Jasmine)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions to Make Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole
Let’s walk through this comforting dish step by step, because once you see how easy it is, you’ll be making it on repeat. Each step is simple, straightforward, and guaranteed to make your Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole turn out perfectly every single time.
Step 1: Cook the Rice with Flavor
The first step by step move in this recipe is to cook your rice in chicken broth instead of plain water. It’s a small trick that adds a deeper, savory flavor to your casserole base. Pour 2 cups of chicken broth into a medium saucepan and bring it to a gentle boil. Add your rice (long-grain types like Jasmine or Basmati work best) and reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15–20 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed. You’ll know it’s ready when the rice looks fluffy and tender, not sticky or clumpy.
If you love the idea of flavor-packed grains, you might also enjoy my Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup — it uses a similar technique to draw out rich, comforting depth from every spoonful.
Step 2: Steam the Broccoli Just Right
While the rice simmers, it’s time for broccoli. Whether you’re using fresh or frozen florets, the goal is tender-crisp — not mushy. Steam your broccoli for about 3–4 minutes if fresh, or follow package directions if frozen. You want that bright green color and just enough bite so it holds up in the casserole later. This step by step process ensures your broccoli stays vibrant and doesn’t turn dull or soggy after baking. If you love creamy veggie-forward dishes, take a peek at my Creamy Corn Casserole for Thanksgiving, which pairs perfectly with this one for a full family-style dinner spread.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken for Warmth and Texture
Now let’s talk chicken. If you’re using pre-cooked chicken (like rotisserie or leftovers), warm it up in a large skillet with a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. This step by step reheating keeps your chicken moist and adds a bit of that golden, slightly crispy texture that gives your casserole a restaurant-quality finish. Cook just until heated through — you don’t want to dry it out. For an easy twist, you can also swap chicken for turkey; it’s a fantastic way to use leftovers, especially after Thanksgiving. You’ll find more leftover-friendly ideas in my Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Stew.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Now for the soul of this casserole — the creamy, cheesy sauce. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together one can of cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This step by step mixing brings all those flavors together into a silky, luxurious base. The result should be smooth and well-blended, with no lumps. Don’t rush this part — it’s what binds your rice, chicken, and broccoli into that comforting, cohesive bite you’ll crave again and again. If you prefer a homemade soup base instead of canned, check out my guide on making a creamy sauce from scratch in the Creamy Chicken Maryland Soup post.
Step 5: Combine Everything into One Delicious Mixture
Now it’s time for the big mix. Add your cooked rice, sautéed chicken, and steamed broccoli to the bowl with your creamy sauce. Stir everything together until it’s evenly coated and well combined. Take your time with this step by step blending — every grain of rice and floret of broccoli should get its fair share of sauce. Once it’s well mixed, stir in half of your shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. This melts into the mixture beautifully, making every spoonful extra creamy and cheesy.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake to Perfection
Grab a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread your mixture evenly inside. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top for that irresistible golden crust. Cut the butter into small pieces and scatter them over the cheese layer — this adds a touch of richness and helps create those gorgeous, bubbly spots of melted goodness. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and lightly browned. Your kitchen will smell like a cozy Sunday dinner in the making.
When you pull it out of the oven, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This brief pause helps everything set and makes scooping easier. For a little extra flair, top it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of red pepper flakes for color and mild heat.
If you enjoy the texture contrast of a crunchy topping, you can also sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the cheese before baking. It adds that satisfying crisp bite that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling. Want more crunchy comfort recipes? My Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping delivers a similar texture dream.
Step 7: Serve, Share, and Savor
Now comes the best part — serving your Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole. Dish it up straight from the oven and watch as the cheese stretches and the steam rises — that’s comfort right there. Pair it with a simple salad or warm garlic bread, and dinner is done. This step by step method doesn’t just make cooking easier — it turns an ordinary night into something special, cozy, and nourishing.
If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy exploring other family-friendly comfort meals like my Easy Baked Burrito Casserole Recipe, which brings the same ease and heartiness to your dinner table.
What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole
This casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you’re feeding a crowd or just love a full spread, pair it with something light and refreshing. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness beautifully. Garlic bread or dinner rolls make it extra cozy (because carbs are friends). If you’re in the mood for a full comfort meal, try serving it alongside Creamy Corn Casserole for Thanksgiving or Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast. A glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with lime completes the meal perfectly.
Key Tips for Making Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole
To make your Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole foolproof, keep a few tips in mind. First, don’t overcook your broccoli before baking—it’ll go mushy fast. Second, use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent that beautiful gooeyness we’re after. Third, if you like a little crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking. Finally, this recipe is super forgiving—swap chicken for turkey, or add cooked mushrooms or peas for a veggie boost. Every tweak feels like a new version of comfort.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole
This casserole stores like a dream. Once cooled, cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in the oven at 325°F until hot. For long-term storage, freeze the baked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. If it seems a bit dry, add a splash of milk before warming—it brings the creaminess right back. It’s a great make-ahead option for busy weeks or when you want to gift a meal to a new mom or neighbor.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! Assemble it up to a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
Can I use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice? Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid.
Can I use different cheeses? Definitely! Try Monterey Jack, Colby, or even Swiss for a fun twist.
Can I skip the soup and make it from scratch? You sure can—try a quick homemade white sauce using butter, flour, and chicken broth.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, this Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole is about one thing: comfort made simple. It’s a dish that feels like home—warm, satisfying, and made with love. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself on a chilly evening, this casserole is the ultimate way to nourish well. And if you’re craving more cozy dinner ideas, check out Easy Baked Burrito Casserole Recipe for another one-pan wonder.
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Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole – The Ultimate Comfort Dinner
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Experience the ultimate comfort food with this creamy chicken broccoli rice casserole. Tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, fluffy rice, and melty cheese come together in one warm, satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or cozy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 3 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
- 1 cup uncooked rice (preferably a long-grain rice like Basmati or Jasmine)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1⁄2 cup sour cream
- 1⁄2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
3. While the rice cooks, steam the broccoli until just tender. If using frozen, cook according to package directions.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cooked chicken and sauté until warmed through. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
6. Add the cooked rice, sautéed chicken, and broccoli to the bowl. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
7. Stir in 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese into the mixture.
8. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
9. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top.
10. Dot the top with small pieces of butter.
11. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
12. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Substitute chopped cooked turkey for chicken to use up holiday leftovers. Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the cheese layer before baking. This casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated or frozen for later. Allow to cool completely before freezing, then reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
