Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, vibrant broccoli, and gooey melted cheese into one delicious dish. This casserole is a family favorite that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick dish to throw together or something that will please a crowd, this casserole offers the perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Broccoli Rice and Chicken Casserole
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting and creamy casserole made with tender chicken, rice, broccoli, and plenty of melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 3 cups cooked rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.
5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken, rice, broccoli, shredded cheese, condensed soup, milk, and sour cream. Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with additional shredded cheese and breadcrumbs if desired.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can use frozen broccoli if fresh isn’t available.
- For a crunchier topping, add crushed crackers or fried onions.
- Swap cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom for a vegetarian version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 400
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
Keywords: Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole, Chicken and Rice Bake, Broccoli Chicken Casserole, Chicken and Cheese Casserole
A Classic Casserole with a Healthy Twist
While many casseroles lean toward heavy ingredients, this recipe incorporates plenty of fresh broccoli to boost its nutritional value. The broccoli adds a bright, crisp contrast to the richness of the cheese and chicken, making the dish feel balanced and wholesome. By using lean chicken and adding a healthy portion of vegetables, you can enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness without the guilt.
An Easy One-Pot Meal
One of the great things about Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is how easy it is to make. With simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry and fridge, this dish comes together in just one pot. After cooking the chicken and preparing the rice, you simply mix everything together, top it with cheese, and bake. This simplicity makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
Perfect for Leftovers and Meal Prep
This casserole is fantastic for leftovers and meal prepping. It holds up well in the fridge, and the flavors continue to develop as it sits, making it just as delicious the next day. You can prepare it in advance and store it in individual portions for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, so you can double the recipe and freeze half for a future meal.
Customizable to Your Preferences
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Swap out the chicken for turkey, or use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice. For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. You can also adjust the amount of cheese to suit your taste.
Kid-Friendly and Full of Flavor
This casserole is a hit with kids, thanks to the creamy cheese sauce and tender chicken. The rice and cheese make it approachable, while the broccoli adds a boost of nutrition that parents will love. If you have picky eaters in the house, this is a great way to sneak in some extra veggies without compromising on flavor.
A Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food
If you’re hosting a gathering or potluck, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to transport and serve, and everyone loves a good cheesy casserole. You can make a large batch to feed a group, and it pairs well with a variety of side dishes, like a simple green salad or garlic bread.
A Balanced and Nutritious Meal
This casserole offers a well-rounded combination of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables, making it a complete meal. The chicken provides lean protein, while the rice adds satisfying carbs. Broccoli, packed with vitamins and fiber, brings color and crunch to the dish. Cheese ties everything together, adding richness and flavor. It’s a comforting dish that doesn’t skimp on nutrition.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
With just a handful of simple ingredients—chicken, rice, broccoli, cheese, and a creamy sauce—you can create a dish that’s full of flavor. The combination of sharp cheddar cheese, savory chicken, and crisp broccoli makes every bite satisfying. The creamy sauce helps bind everything together, adding a luscious texture that’s hard to resist.
Make It Ahead for Busy Weeknights
If you know you’ll have a busy week ahead, Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is a great make-ahead option. You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and simply bake it when you’re ready to eat. This way, you’ll have a hot, home-cooked meal without the hassle of prepping dinner after a long day.
A Great Dish for Picky Eaters
This casserole is not only nutritious but also perfect for picky eaters. The creamy cheese sauce helps mask the flavor of the broccoli, making it more palatable for kids who might be hesitant about vegetables. The combination of cheese, rice, and chicken is familiar and comforting, making it a hit with even the most selective eaters.
Freeze for Later
Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is an excellent candidate for freezing. You can assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly, and freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. This makes it a great option for meal planning or when you need to have something ready on short notice.
Add a Crunchy Topping for Extra Texture
For a little extra texture, consider adding a crunchy topping to the casserole before baking. Crushed crackers, breadcrumbs, or even fried onions can add a delightful crunch that complements the creamy filling. Simply sprinkle your topping of choice over the cheese layer before baking, and enjoy a crispy, golden finish.
Pair It with a Light Side Salad
While this casserole is a complete meal on its own, it pairs beautifully with a light green salad. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the casserole, creating a well-rounded meal. A simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect complement to the creamy, cheesy dish.
A Gluten-Free Option
If you need to make this casserole gluten-free, it’s easy to do. Simply substitute the flour in the sauce with a gluten-free alternative, or use a gluten-free condensed soup as the base. Ensure that the breadcrumbs or any toppings are also gluten-free, and you’ll have a delicious dish that fits within dietary restrictions.
A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion
Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is versatile enough to fit any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a casual family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or bringing it to a potluck, it’s a reliable recipe that delivers every time. The balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with the crunch of broccoli and tender chicken makes it a favorite for all.
Healthy Swaps for a Lighter Version
If you’re looking to lighten up this dish, there are a few simple swaps you can make. Use reduced-fat cheese, replace the cream or condensed soup with a lighter version, or use whole grain or brown rice for added fiber. You can also increase the amount of broccoli and reduce the cheese to make it even healthier without sacrificing flavor.
Conclusion: A Comforting and Nutritious Meal for All
Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines nutrition, flavor, and ease of preparation. Whether you’re cooking for a busy family or meal prepping for the week, this casserole has everything you need in one dish. The balance of vegetables, protein, and creamy cheese makes it both wholesome and indulgent, while its versatility allows you to customize it to your preferences. With simple ingredients and big flavor, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.
FAQs for Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
2. Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and freeze it for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.
3. What type of rice works best?
Any type of cooked rice works for this recipe, but long-grain white rice or brown rice are excellent choices. You can also use quinoa for a protein-packed twist.
4. How can I make this dish healthier?
To make the casserole lighter, you can use reduced-fat cheese, swap the cream or condensed soup for a lighter version, or use whole grain rice. Adding more broccoli and reducing the cheese will also make the dish healthier.
5. What can I substitute for the chicken?
You can substitute the chicken with turkey or make a vegetarian version by adding more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or cauliflower.