Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole
A comforting casserole featuring tender chicken, creamy sauce, and vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in melty cheese – perfect for busy nights.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Traditional
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 3 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, lightly steamed)
- 1 can (10.5 oz / ~300 g) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted, optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the rice according to package directions. Lightly steam fresh broccoli until tender or thaw and drain frozen broccoli.
- Whisk together cream of chicken soup, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Stir in chicken, rice, broccoli, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese until well combined.
- Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese.
- If using breadcrumbs, mix with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until heated through and cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, avoid overcooking the broccoli and consider using leftover cooked chicken.