This creamy chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole is a warm hug in a dish! Packed with tender chicken, crunchy broccoli, fluffy rice, and gooey cheese, it’s a meal nobody can resist.
Guilty confession: I sometimes make a double batch just to eat it all week. It’s so easy to toss together, and you get all your favorite flavors in one bite. What’s not to love? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded or diced chicken is key for this recipe. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken works great! You can even use leftover chicken from another meal.
Broccoli: Fresh or frozen broccoli florets are both good options. If you don’t have broccoli, you could substitute with other veggies like cauliflower or mixed vegetables to add variety!
Rice: White rice gives a classic texture. Brown rice is a healthy alternative and gives a nutty flavor. Quinoa could also be a great protein-packed substitute if you’re looking for something different.
Cheese: Cheddar is a must for flavor, and mozzarella adds creaminess. If you’re lactose intolerant, try vegan cheese shreds, or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How Do I Ensure the Best Texture for My Casserole?
Getting that perfect creamy and comforting texture is key! First, combine all your ingredients in a bowl thoroughly; this ensures even flavor distribution. Adding chicken broth makes the dish extra creamy but is totally optional. Just remember to not skimp on the cheese when you layer it on top for that gooey goodness!
- Use warm chicken and rice for better mixing.
- Press down your mixture in the baking dish to eliminate air pockets.
- Let it rest after baking to firm up for easier slicing when serving.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 1/2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided, plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. That means in just around 45-50 minutes, you can have a warm and comforting meal ready for your family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important so your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly delicious!
2. Prepare the Casserole Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, broccoli florets, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Then, add half of the cheddar cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese to the bowl. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. If you like your casserole extra creamy, stir in the chicken broth. Mix everything together until it’s all well combined.
3. Transfer and Top the Casserole:
Now, take your mixture and pour it into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly so it cooks nicely. Next, sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top. If you love a crispy topping, add the breadcrumbs on top of the cheese.
4. Bake the Casserole:
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown. It will smell amazing too!
5. Let It Rest and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let your casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes. This helps it set up nicely and makes serving easier. Then, dig in and enjoy your creamy chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole while it’s warm!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen broccoli, there’s no need to thaw it first. Just toss it directly into the mixing bowl. It will cook perfectly as the casserole bakes!
What If I Don’t Have Cream of Chicken Soup?
No worries! You can substitute with a homemade cream sauce or use cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor. Simply use the same amount as the recipe calls for!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Adding a bit of broth can help restore some moisture when reheating!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and keep it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, you may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats up fully.
