Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole

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Comfort food doesn’t get much better than a hot, bubbling dish of Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole. With tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, crunchy broccoli, and a generous helping of melted cheddar cheese all wrapped in a creamy sauce, every bite is the perfect balance of hearty and homey. It’s a meal that brings families together around the dinner table with smiles and second helpings guaranteed.

What makes this casserole so irresistible is its simplicity. It’s easy to prepare with pantry staples and leftovers, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or meal prep hero. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just need a dish to carry you through the week, this recipe ticks all the boxes: creamy, cheesy, flavorful, and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole

• Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will love the cheesy goodness and familiar flavors.
• Meal prep winner: Makes great leftovers and is freezer-friendly.
• Versatile: Swap in different vegetables, rice varieties, or cheese blends based on what you have.
• One-dish meal: Protein, veggies, and carbs all baked into one comforting dish.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start cooking, it helps to gather the right tools for a smooth cooking experience:

• Large mixing bowl: For combining all ingredients easily.
• Casserole dish (9×13-inch): Essential for even baking and perfect portions.
• Saucepan: For preparing a quick roux or heating soup if needed.
• Whisk: Helps you blend the sauce smoothly without clumps.
• Spatula or large spoon: Great for mixing and scooping the casserole into the baking dish.

Each of these tools plays a role in making preparation quick and cleanup minimal. Using a quality casserole dish also ensures even heat distribution, which is key for that golden-brown cheesy top.

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Preparation Tips

To make your Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole flawless, use cooked and cooled rice for better texture and to prevent mushiness. Opt for rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken to save time. Blanching the broccoli briefly helps retain its vibrant color and prevents it from becoming too soft during baking. Mix the sauce ingredients thoroughly before folding in the other elements to ensure everything is evenly coated. Lastly, don’t skimp on the cheese—use a sharp cheddar for the best flavor and save some to sprinkle on top for that golden crust.

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Ingredients for this Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole

• 3 cups cooked white rice (preferably cooled)
• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
• 2 cups broccoli florets (lightly blanched or steamed)
• 1 (10.5 oz) can of cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for topping)
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cooking your rice if it’s not already done. Let it cool slightly to prevent it from becoming mushy in the casserole. Shred your pre-cooked chicken, and blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until bright green and just tender. Drain and set aside.

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Step 2: Make the Creamy Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. This mixture will be the rich base that ties all the ingredients together.

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Step 3: Combine the Filling

Add the cooked rice, shredded chicken, and broccoli to the creamy mixture. Stir well until everything is evenly coated and combined. Fold in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving the remaining 1/2 cup for topping.

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Step 4: Transfer to Casserole Dish

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick spray or a bit of butter. Pour the casserole mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly using a spatula.

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Step 5: Top and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Add a dash of paprika if you like a bit of color and subtle spice. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly with a lightly golden top.

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Step 6: Let it Rest and Serve

Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes. This helps the layers settle and makes serving easier. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh finish. Serve warm and enjoy!

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Notes

This casserole is perfect for using up leftover chicken and rice, making it a great way to reduce food waste while preparing a wholesome meal. For added depth of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the sauce mixture. You can also mix in other vegetables like peas, corn, or sautéed mushrooms for extra texture and nutrition.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

1. Using hot rice – Hot rice can cause the casserole to become too soft and lose its structure. Always use cooled rice.
2. Skipping the blanching of broccoli – Raw broccoli may not cook evenly, leading to tough, undercooked bites.
3. Overbaking – Baking the casserole too long can dry it out. Stick to the suggested 25–30 minutes.
4. Not seasoning enough – Don’t forget to taste the creamy base before combining; season generously with salt and pepper.
5. Using pre-shredded cheese – For best melt and flavor, shred your cheese fresh from the block.

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Storage Instructions

Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. Transfer leftovers into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For freezing, wrap the casserole tightly in foil or transfer portions to freezer-safe containers; it will keep well for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Microwaving individual portions also works well for a quick meal.

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Estimated Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (based on 8 servings)

• Calories: ~375 kcal
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 690mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of rice works best?

Long-grain white rice is ideal, but brown rice or wild rice blends also work—just make sure they’re fully cooked and cooled.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything up to a day in advance and store covered in the fridge. Bake when ready.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I substitute the sour cream?

Yes, plain Greek yogurt makes a great substitute and adds extra protein.

How can I make this spicier?

Add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture or include chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely. Peas, carrots, bell peppers, and mushrooms are great additions.

Can I use raw chicken instead?

It’s not recommended. Pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken ensures everything bakes evenly and safely.

How do I prevent the cheese from getting greasy?

Use freshly grated cheese and avoid overbaking. Also, mix cheese into the casserole rather than layering too much on top.

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Conclusion

Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole is the ultimate one-dish comfort meal that’s both cozy and practical. With its creamy texture, gooey cheese, and wholesome ingredients, it’s a recipe that fits into busy weeknights or family gatherings alike. Once you make it, you’ll find it sliding into your regular rotation thanks to its simplicity, flexibility, and sheer deliciousness.

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