This comforting broccoli, rice, cheese, and chicken casserole is a complete meal baked into one satisfying dish. Tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, and broccoli are brought together with a creamy sauce and finished with a melted cheddar topping. It’s warm, filling, and perfect for family dinners or make-ahead meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is simple to prepare and uses everyday ingredients you may already have in your kitchen. It’s hearty enough to serve on its own, yet versatile enough to pair with salads or bread. The creamy texture, balanced with vegetables and protein, makes it a reliable crowd-pleaser for both adults and kids. It’s also ideal for leftovers, as the flavors continue to develop after baking.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups water
2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
1 can (10 ounces) cream of chicken soup
1 can (10 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
¼ cup unsalted butter
1 cup milk
1 small white onion, finely chopped
16 ounces broccoli pieces (fresh or frozen)
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the rice in the water according to package instructions until tender, then set aside.

In a large 9×13-inch baking dish, add the cooked rice and shredded chicken. Stir in the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, butter, milk, chopped onion, and broccoli pieces. Mix until everything is evenly combined.

Fold in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, distributing it throughout the mixture.

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbly. During the final 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top and return to the oven until melted.

Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 8 servings.
Prep time is approximately 15 minutes.
Cook time is about 35 minutes.
Total time from start to finish is roughly 50 minutes.

Variations

You can replace the broccoli with cauliflower, green beans, or peas for a different vegetable profile. For extra richness, substitute whole milk for the milk listed or add an additional ¼ cup of cheese to the filling. If you enjoy added seasoning, a small pinch of paprika or black pepper can enhance the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave on medium power or place the casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Thaw it first and drain any excess moisture before mixing it into the casserole.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

You can assemble the casserole up to one day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

What type of rice works best?

Long-grain white rice is ideal, but you can also use medium-grain rice if cooked properly.

Can I use leftover chicken?

Leftover roasted or baked chicken is perfect for this recipe and adds great flavor.

How do I keep the casserole from drying out?

Make sure the casserole is well covered with sauce and avoid overbaking. The resting time after baking also helps retain moisture.

Can I add more cheese?

Yes, you can increase the cheese by up to ½ cup if you prefer a cheesier casserole.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, it freezes very well when wrapped tightly and cooled completely before freezing.

Can I use a different type of soup?

You may substitute another creamy soup, as long as it has a similar consistency and flavor profile.

What can I serve with this casserole?

A simple green salad or warm breadsticks pair nicely with this dish.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients and divide the mixture between two baking dishes for larger gatherings.

Conclusion

This broccoli, rice, cheese, and chicken casserole is a dependable comfort-food classic that delivers flavor, convenience, and satisfaction in every bite. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and excellent storage options, it’s a recipe you’ll return to whenever you need a warm, homemade meal for your table.

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