Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe: Homestyle Magic

Comfort meets convenience in this hearty chicken broccoli rice casserole that promises pure satisfaction.

Creamy textures and robust flavors blend seamlessly throughout each delightful bite.

Weeknight dinners demand simple yet delicious solutions for busy households.

Nutritious ingredients come together effortlessly in one beautiful dish that feels like a warm embrace.

Smart home cooks appreciate how quickly this meal assembles with minimal preparation.

Fresh broccoli adds vibrant green goodness while tender chicken provides substantial protein to keep you feeling energized.

Dive into this classic recipe and watch everyone ask for seconds.

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole: Wholesome and Cheesy

• Whip Up Quickly: This casserole comes together in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Packed with tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and creamy cheese, this dish offers a satisfying blend of flavors that appeals to both kids and adults.
• Versatile Dinner Solution: Easy to customize with different cheeses, protein options, or added vegetables, this recipe adapts to your family's taste preferences and pantry ingredients.
• One-Dish Wonder: Combines protein, vegetables, and grains in a single baking dish, minimizing cleanup and providing a complete, balanced meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Chicken: A tender and flavorful protein that adds substance to the casserole.

• Broccoli: A nutritious green vegetable that provides a fresh and slightly crunchy texture to the dish.

• Cream of Chicken Soup, Sour Cream, Milk: These ingredients create a rich and smooth sauce that binds the casserole together.

• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, Pepper: These spices enhance the overall flavor of the casserole.

• Rice: A hearty base that absorbs the creamy sauce and provides a satisfying texture.

• Shredded Cheese: Adds a melty, savory layer of flavor to the casserole.

• Breadcrumbs: Provides a crispy and golden-brown crust on top of the casserole.

How to Prepare Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 375F (190C).

Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a quick spray or butter rub to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create a Creamy Flavor Base

• Cream of chicken soup
• Sour cream
• Milk
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Blend everything until the mixture looks silky smooth and all ingredients are friends.

Step 3: Combine Hearty Ingredients

• Cooked chicken pieces
• Chopped broccoli florets
• Cooked rice
• Shredded cheese

Stir everything until each ingredient is perfectly coated and distributed evenly.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish.

Use a spatula to spread it out so it’s nice and even.

Step 5: Add Crunchy Topping

Sprinkle breadcrumbs across the top for an extra crispy texture that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven.

Bake for 20-25 minutes until the casserole is bubbling hot and looks irresistibly golden.

Step 7: Serve and Savor

Pull out your masterpiece, let it cool for a few minutes, then dig in while it’s warm and wonderful.

Enjoy your delicious comfort food!

Insider Tips for Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Add a dash of smoked paprika or herbs like thyme to elevate the casserole's taste profile.
• Use day-old rice or cook rice slightly less than package instructions to prevent mushiness in the final dish.
• Swap chicken with turkey, rotisserie chicken, or plant-based protein for versatile meal options.
• Replace broccoli with cauliflower, spinach, or mixed vegetables for a colorful and nutritious twist.
• Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and grated parmesan for a golden, crunchy surface that adds irresistible texture.

Flavor Variations for Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken substitute, using vegetable broth instead of cream of chicken soup for a meat-free version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular rice with cauliflower rice and use gluten-free cream of chicken soup to make the casserole celiac-friendly.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute rice with riced cauliflower and use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining creamy texture.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use coconut milk instead of dairy milk, dairy-free cheese alternative, and dairy-free cream of chicken soup for those with lactose intolerance.

Serving Suggestions for Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Cozy Family Dinner Companion: Pair this hearty casserole with a crisp green salad dressed in light vinaigrette for a balanced meal that brings freshness to the rich dish.
• Protein Power-Up: Add a side of grilled or roasted vegetables like asparagus or carrots to increase the nutritional value and provide extra color to the plate.
• Comfort Food Combo: Serve alongside warm dinner rolls or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce and create a satisfying, filling dinner that everyone will love.
• Weekend Meal Perfection: Top with some extra shredded cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking for a golden, melty finish that makes this casserole even more irresistible.

Storage Advice for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Transfer casserole to freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freezes well for up to 3 months.
• Place individual portion on microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warm. Add splash of milk to prevent dryness.
• Preheat oven to 350F. Cover casserole with foil to prevent burning. Warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165F. Remove foil during last 5 minutes for crispy top.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just thaw and drain it completely before adding to the casserole to prevent excess moisture.

• What type of rice works best for this recipe?

Long-grain white rice or brown rice are ideal. Ensure the rice is pre-cooked and cooled before mixing into the casserole.

• How can I make this dish healthier?

Use low-fat cream of chicken soup, reduced-fat sour cream, and add more vegetables like cauliflower or carrots to boost nutrition.

• Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The creamy texture and mild flavors make it a great meal for children who might be picky eaters.

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

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4.6 from 22 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty chicken broccoli rice casserole brings classic comfort to dinner tables across America. Simple ingredients combine for a creamy, satisfying meal you can enjoy with family and friends.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups chicken, shredded or diced
• 3 cups broccoli florets, steamed
• 2 cups white rice, cooked

Dairy and Sauce Ingredients:

• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 can (10.5 ounces/298 grams) cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk

Seasoning and Topping:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven at 375F (190C) and coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Create a creamy base by whisking together cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until the mixture becomes smooth and uniform.
3. Incorporate shredded cooked chicken, chopped broccoli florets, cooked rice, and one cup of shredded cheese into the creamy sauce, ensuring all ingredients are thoroughly blended.
4. Distribute the mixture evenly across the prepared baking dish, using a spatula to create a level surface.
5. Optional: Sprinkle a light layer of breadcrumbs over the casserole for added texture and golden-brown crispiness.
6. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, watching for bubbling edges and a heated center.
7. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the casserole to set and cool slightly.
8. Serve immediately while warm, garnishing with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

• Customize the dish by using brown rice for added fiber and nutrients, which provides a healthier twist to the classic recipe.
• Swap cream of chicken soup with a homemade version or a low-sodium alternative to control salt and preservative intake.
• Make it vegetarian by replacing chicken with plant-based protein like tofu, chickpeas, or white beans for a protein-packed meatless option.
• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip them entirely, and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 370 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 640 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 32 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg