Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe: Easy Comfort Food

Chicken broccoli rice casserole is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights! Packed with chewy rice, tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a one-pan dish your whole family will love. This hearty meal comes together seamlessly with a few shortcuts like condensed soup and quick prep techniques. Perfectly creamy, cheesy, and satisfying!

I first made this dish after a long day when I needed something simple yet homemade. The result? A winning combination that hit all the right spots. Bonus: You can make it ahead or adapt it for picky eaters. Trust me, you’ll want to add this chicken broccoli rice casserole to your regular meal rotation!

How to Make Perfect Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

This recipe is straightforward, made with pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Let’s get into what you’ll need and the step-by-step process to whip up this delicious casserole.

Ingredients for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Here’s everything you need to make this creamy and cheesy broccoli chicken rice bake. Feel free to tweak the seasonings to your taste!

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups diced rotisserie chicken for a shortcut)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 1/4 cups white long-grain rice, uncooked
• 2-3 cups fresh broccoli florets (substitute 2 cups frozen if needed)
• 10.5 oz condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• Optional seasonings: 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Casserole topping: 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed; 2 tablespoons melted butter

Pro Tip: Shred your own cheddar cheese from a block for the best melt. Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly due to added anti-caking agents.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a hassle-free, tasty meal! This recipe uses one pot and a casserole dish—less cleanup, more enjoyment.

1. Season and Cook Chicken: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces, then season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat and brown the chicken for about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook Rice and Broccoli: To the same pot, add chicken broth, olive oil, and rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover tightly and cook for 6 minutes. Add the broccoli, re-cover, and cook for an additional 9 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender. Remove from heat; let stand covered for 10 minutes (don’t stir!).
3. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, and half the shredded cheese. Mix well. Add optional seasonings like thyme or garlic powder for extra flavor.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Top with the remaining cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
5. Add Cracker Topping: In a small bowl, combine melted butter and crushed Ritz crackers. Sprinkle over the casserole and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Let cool slightly before serving. Pair with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!

Jake’s Tips for the Best Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

These tricks will guarantee your casserole turns out perfectly every time, with fewer hassles in the kitchen.

• Use rotisserie chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breast—it’s faster and just as flavorful.
• Go fresh or frozen: Fresh broccoli gives a crisp-tender bite, but frozen works in a pinch. Just thaw and dry it to avoid sogginess.
• Make it your own: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or Monterey Jack, or add red pepper flakes for a little kick.
• Prep ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 2 days beforehand. Simply bake when ready, adding 15 extra minutes to account for the cold dish.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Here are answers to common questions to help you master this recipe!

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook. Adjust the cooking time and liquid amount according to package instructions.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until warmed through.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole without the cracker topping and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge, let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as directed with an extra 15 minutes of cooking time.

What can I serve with this casserole?

This dish is hearty on its own, but a fresh side salad, roasted veggies, or dinner rolls pair wonderfully.

Try This Recipe Tonight!

If you’re craving a simple, cozy dinner, this chicken broccoli rice casserole is the perfect choice. It’s creamy, cheesy, comforting, and oh-so-easy to make. I know your family will love it as much as mine does!

Give it a try and let me know how it turns out in the comments below. Don’t forget to share your finished casserole on social media and tag KitchenShortcuts.net—I love seeing your creations. And if you’re looking for more one-pan meals, check out my other recipes for crowd-pleasing weeknight dinners!