Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole Recipe

Name: Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 2 cups fresh broccoli florets; 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil or cooking spray for greasing

Published: July 4, 2025

by Clara Harper

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole is incredibly simple to prepare, making weeknight meals stress-free.
The rich flavors come together beautifully in one dish, perfect for sharing.
Its vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Versatile enough for leftovers or meal prep, you’ll love how it tastes any time of the week!

My family always lights up when I serve this casserole; their smiles are worth all the effort I put into it.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use 3-4 breasts; they cook evenly and absorb flavors wonderfully.
Fresh Broccoli Florets: Choose vibrant green florets for optimal crunch and color; frozen works too if you’re in a pinch.
Long Grain Rice: This is your base; opt for uncooked rice to soak up all those luscious flavors during baking.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for more flavor; it melts beautifully into the casserole.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess; you can substitute with cream of mushroom if you prefer.
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle enhances the overall flavor profile without overpowering other ingredients.
Onion Powder: Adds depth without requiring you to chop onions—win-win!
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust according to taste before baking.
Olive Oil or Cooking Spray: Use this for greasing your baking dish—nobody likes sticky casseroles!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your ingredients. A nice warm oven ensures even cooking throughout!

Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray. This will help prevent sticking and keep cleanup easy later.

Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add your chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown on both sides (about 5-7 minutes per side). They should be cooked through but not dry.

Add Broccoli and Rice: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and chop into bite-sized pieces. In the same skillet, add fresh broccoli florets and long grain rice along with two cups of water. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and cover until rice absorbs water (about 15-18 minutes).

Create the Cheesy Mixture: In a large bowl, combine chopped chicken, cooked rice mixture, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of your shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is well-coated.

Bake it Up!: Pour everything into your prepared baking dish. Spread evenly then top with remaining cheddar cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top—cue mouth-watering aromas filling your kitchen!

This cheesy delight is not only easy but also endlessly customizable! You can swap out veggies or add spices according to your family’s preferences.

Enjoy every cheesy bite of this classic chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole! It’s sure to become an instant favorite at your dinner table.

You Must Know

This chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole is a weeknight lifesaver, transforming simple ingredients into a creamy delight.
The smell wafting through your kitchen will make everyone curious.
Plus, it’s a great way to sneak veggies into the kids’ meals without them noticing!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by cooking the rice first, then sauté the chicken and broccoli before combining everything with cheese for an even melt. This sequence ensures everything is cooked just right!

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the broccoli for spinach or add some mushrooms. You can also experiment with different cheeses to personalize this casserole to your taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best results.

Chef's Helpful Tips

This chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole shines when you use freshly cooked rice instead of pre-cooked.
Adding breadcrumbs on top gives a delightful crunch.
Don’t forget to season at every step for maximum flavor!

Creating this casserole reminds me of family gatherings where laughter and good food united us all. Those moments made me realize how comfort food brings people together.

FAQ

Can I use frozen broccoli in the casserole?

Yes, using frozen broccoli is convenient and works perfectly in this recipe.

What’s a good substitute for cheese?

You can use nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for alternatives.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra kick in flavor.

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