Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

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Golden, crispy, and bubbling hot straight from the oven, Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food with a wholesome twist. This dish features tender pieces of chicken, vibrant broccoli florets, and fluffy rice, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce and topped with a buttery, crunchy cornflake topping that adds the perfect textural finish. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table with its irresistible aroma and classic flavor profile.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping meals ahead for the week, or looking for a one-pan solution that doesn’t skimp on satisfaction, this casserole delivers on every front. Balanced, filling, and endlessly cozy, it hits that nostalgic sweet spot while still feeling hearty and nourishing. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cold winter evenings, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in regular rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• It’s a full meal in one dish: protein, veggies, and grains all baked together.
• Great for meal prep or leftovers – it reheats beautifully.
• Kid-approved with cheesy goodness and crunchy topping.
• Quick to throw together with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.
• Customizable – add different veggies, swap proteins, or change the topping.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into mixing and baking, set yourself up for success with the right tools. You’ll need:

• Large Mixing Bowl – for combining your chicken, rice, broccoli, and creamy base.
• Saucepan – to pre-cook the rice or warm any sauce components.
• Casserole Dish (9×13-inch) – essential for even baking and enough surface area for that golden topping.
• Aluminum Foil – helps prevent over-browning while baking.
• Cutting Board & Knife – to chop the broccoli and chicken if you’re not using pre-cooked versions.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – for accuracy in flavor and texture.

Each tool has a role: the bowl keeps your mixture even, the dish gives it structure, and foil ensures your topping crisps at just the right pace.

Preparation Tips

To save time, use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken. Frozen broccoli can be used but should be thawed and patted dry to prevent sogginess. Make sure the rice is fully cooked and slightly cooled before mixing it with the rest – this keeps the casserole from becoming mushy. Shred your cheese fresh instead of using pre-shredded bags; it melts smoother and adds richer flavor. When applying the topping, don’t crush the cornflakes too fine – you want a light crunch, not crumbs. And finally, let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes after baking so everything sets nicely before serving.

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Ingredients for this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie works great)
• 2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice for a whole grain option)
• 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets (if frozen, thaw and drain)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (optional, enhances creaminess)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1/4 cup milk (for thinning the sauce slightly)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups cornflakes, lightly crushed
• 2 tbsp butter, melted (for the topping)

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a thin coating of butter. This ensures the casserole doesn’t stick and makes cleanup easier.

Step 2: Cook and Cool the Ingredients

If you haven’t already, cook your chicken and rice. The rice should be fully cooked and fluffed; allow it to cool slightly before mixing. Steam or blanch broccoli florets for 2–3 minutes if using fresh, just enough to soften them slightly. If using frozen, thaw and pat dry.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise (if using), milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine All Main Ingredients

To the same bowl, add the cooked chicken, rice, broccoli, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well to make sure everything is evenly coated with the sauce mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly into the corners. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top.

Step 6: Add the Crunchy Topping

In a small bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. This gives it that classic golden, crispy finish.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Cover the casserole loosely with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10–15 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbly.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes after removing from the oven. This helps everything set and makes serving easier. Scoop generous portions and enjoy while warm!

Notes

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is wonderfully adaptable. You can use leftover turkey or ham instead of chicken, and swap in other vegetables like cauliflower, peas, or carrots. For a gluten-free version, make sure your cream of chicken soup and cornflakes are certified gluten-free. It also freezes well – either before baking (just assemble, cover tightly, and freeze) or after baking. Reheat in the oven until hot and bubbly.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using uncooked rice: The rice must be fully cooked beforehand; uncooked rice won’t soften properly and can ruin the dish’s texture.
• Overcooking the broccoli: Broccoli should be blanched just enough to soften slightly – overcooking will make it mushy.
• Skipping the foil during baking: Not covering the casserole initially may cause the topping to burn before the inside is heated through.
• Using pre-shredded cheese: It often contains anti-caking agents that affect the smoothness of the melt. Freshly shredded cheese gives a creamier, more consistent texture.
• Adding cold ingredients: Let your cooked rice and chicken come to room temperature before mixing to avoid slowing down the baking process.

Storage Instructions

Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F for 20–25 minutes, or until warmed through. For a crispy topping, uncover for the last 5 minutes.

Estimated Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: ~360
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: ~650mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, brown rice works well but may add a slightly nuttier flavor and denser texture.

Is it okay to use canned chicken?

You can, but freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken gives better flavor and texture.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble it up to a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend also work great.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, skip the chicken and add more veggies or use a plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu.

How do I prevent the topping from getting soggy?

Make sure not to cover the casserole during the last part of baking, and use lightly crushed cornflakes rather than powdery crumbs.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, but use a larger baking dish or two pans and adjust baking time as needed.

Is it kid-friendly?

Very much so – creamy, cheesy, and topped with crispy cornflakes, it’s often a family favorite.

Conclusion

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole brings together hearty ingredients in a simple, crowd-pleasing dish. With just a bit of prep, you’ll enjoy a creamy, comforting meal with a satisfying crunch. Whether for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping ahead, it’s a dependable recipe packed with flavor, nutrition, and comfort – exactly what a great casserole should be.

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