If you’re craving something that’s the ultimate comfort food, look no further than this Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole Recipe. It’s a warm, cheesy hug in a dish, combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious blend of cheeses all bathed in a rich, creamy sauce. Every bite melts in your mouth, delivering a comforting balance of flavors and textures that feels like home. Whether you want a cozy weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish, this casserole is downright irresistible and easy enough to whip up any day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because it uses simple yet essential ingredients, each bringing its own magic to the table. From the tender chicken and fresh broccoli to the comforting cream of chicken soup and the melty cheeses, every component plays a part in creating a dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and utterly satisfying.
- 2 cups cooked rice: Acts as the hearty base, soaking up all the creamy goodness.
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: Provides rich protein and savory flavor to the casserole.
- 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets, steamed: Adds a pop of vibrant color and a tender crunch.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Brings sharpness and depth of flavor.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds gooey, melty creaminess.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: The secret to the casserole’s rich and velvety texture.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Contributes tangy richness and moisture.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Boosts the creamy texture with a slight tang.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a mellow depth of savory flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle kick to balance the creaminess.
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers (optional, for topping): Creates a buttery, crispy crust if desired.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (optional, for topping): Helps the cracker topping crisp up beautifully.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly to a bubbly, golden finish.
Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked rice, shredded chicken, and steamed broccoli. This trio forms the hearty foundation of the dish with delicious textures and colors.
Step 3: Add the Creamy Mix-ins
Next, pour in the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir really well so that the creamy sauce envelops every bite and the spices bring out the best flavors.
Step 4: Stir in the Cheeses
Gently fold in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, distributing the melty, gooey goodness evenly throughout the mixture.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Spread the combined mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Make sure it’s evenly layered for consistent cooking and crust formation on top.
Step 6: Add the Optional Crunchy Topping
If you love a bit of crunch, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over the top. This step adds an irresistible golden crust that contrasts perfectly with the creamy interior.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top turns golden and everything is bubbling with cheesy goodness.
Step 8: Let It Rest Before Serving
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps everything set nicely and makes it easier to portion out.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dash of red pepper flakes adds a fresh contrast to the rich casserole. A bit of extra shredded cheddar on top fresh out of the oven never hurts, either.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a complete meal on its own but pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even a light tomato soup. The freshness of these sides balances the richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve individual portions in ramekins topped with a bit of extra cheese and cracker crumbs, then broil for a minute for a personalized golden crust. You can also jazz it up by drizzling a bit of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream on top for extra flavor layers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The casserole will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it a perfect next-day meal.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully! Portion it into freezer-friendly containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the whole casserole in a 350°F oven until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out, removing it in the last few minutes to refresh the topping.
FAQs
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli works wonderfully in this casserole. Just steam it until tender before adding to the mix.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Swap out the chicken for your favorite plant-based protein or extra vegetables like mushrooms or cauliflower, and use a cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time before baking?
Definitely. You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, keep it refrigerated, and then bake when you’re ready. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
What type of rice works best in this recipe?
Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice works great for fluffy texture, but you can also use brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber — just adjust cooking times accordingly ahead of mixing.
Can I customize the cheese blend?
Of course! Feel free to swap out cheddar and mozzarella for other favorites like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a little parmesan for extra tang.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s easy to make, packed with comforting flavors, and flexible enough to adapt to whatever you have. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will become your new go-to for satisfying weeknight dinners or anytime you want something truly comforting. You’re going to love it!
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Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 30m
- Total Time: 0h 45m
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole is a comforting and rich oven-baked dish combining tender chicken, steamed broccoli, cooked rice, and a cheesy, creamy sauce. Perfect for a hearty family meal, it features a crispy cracker topping that adds a delightful crunch to the savory, cheesy filling.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping (Optional)
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare it for baking the casserole later.
- Combine Main Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, and steamed broccoli, ensuring even mixing of these base components.
- Add Creamy Sauce and Seasonings: Add the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper into the bowl. Mix thoroughly to create a creamy and flavorful mixture.
- Incorporate Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture, enhancing cheese flavor and texture.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the combined mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, making sure it is evenly spread for consistent cooking.
- Add Crunchy Topping: If desired, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole to add a crispy texture when baked.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly, indicating the casserole is cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set and enhance flavors.
Notes
- Steaming the broccoli prevents it from becoming too soft during baking.
- Using cooked chicken (rotisserie or leftover) saves time and enhances flavor.
- The optional cracker topping provides a delightful crunchy contrast to the creamy filling.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
- To make the dish gluten-free, use gluten-free crackers or omit the topping.
