This Chicken Rice and Broccoli Casserole is a staple in my kitchen for its comforting warmth, balanced flavors, and the wholesome goodness it brings to the table. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you need a hearty meal to share with friends and family, this casserole combines tender chicken, creamy rice, and nutritious broccoli in a cheesy, savory sauce. So, let’s dive right in and start cooking together!

This delightful casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s a gathering point for warm conversations and cherished moments. As we embark on this culinary journey together, imagine the aroma of bubbling cheese and savory chicken filling your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that beckons everyone to the table.

Ingredients Needed for This Recipe

To serve about 4 to 6 people, you’ll need:

2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded (You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or boil and shred chicken breasts.)
1 cup of rice (white or brown, according to your preference), cooked

2 cups of broccoli florets, steamed until just tender
1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom soup for a variation)
1/2 cup of mayonnaise

1 cup of milk
1 cup of cheddar cheese, shredded (plus extra for topping, if desired)
1 teaspoon of garlic powder

1 teaspoon of onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon of paprika (optional, for garnish)

Cooking spray or a bit of butter for greasing the casserole dish

Instructions for Making Chicken Rice and Broccoli Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, take this time to gather your ingredients and reflect on the comfort this meal is about to bring.
Prepare the casserole dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or a bit of butter. This helps to ensure that nothing sticks and makes clean-up a breeze.

Combine the ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, mix the cooked chicken, cooked rice, and steamed broccoli. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour this creamy mixture over the chicken, rice, and broccoli. Stir everything together until well combined. Fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to add that irresistible cheesy goodness throughout.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Spread it out evenly with a spoon or spatula. If you’re a cheese lover like I am, feel free to sprinkle some extra cheddar cheese on top for that golden, bubbly finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden. For a touch of color and a hint of smokiness, lightly sprinkle paprika over the casserole before serving.

Serve and enjoy! Once the casserole is beautifully baked, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. This patience pays off, as it allows the flavors to meld together even more and makes serving easier.

Tips for Perfecting the Recipe

Choose the Right Rice: The type of rice you use can significantly affect the texture of your casserole. Long-grain rice like Basmati or Jasmine holds up well, giving the dish a fluffy texture. If you’re opting for brown rice, remember it takes longer to cook but adds a delightful nutty flavor and extra fiber.

Pre-Cook Ingredients Properly: Ensure your chicken is cooked thoroughly but still moist, as it will continue to cook in the casserole. For the broccoli, steam it until just tender; it should still have a bit of crunch before going into the oven to avoid becoming too mushy.

Season Well: Don’t be shy with seasonings. The garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper are essential for flavoring the creamy base. Taste your mixture before baking and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Remember, the cheese and soup add saltiness, so balance your seasonings accordingly.

Cheese Matters: The type of cheddar you use can change the flavor profile of your casserole. A sharp cheddar adds a deeper cheese flavor, while a mild cheddar is more subtle. Mixing cheeses can also add complexity; consider combining cheddar with a bit of Parmesan or Gruyere for an extra savory touch.

Avoid Soggy Casseroles: To prevent your casserole from becoming too soggy, make sure your rice and broccoli are not overcooked before they go into the oven, as they will absorb more liquid and continue to cook in the casserole.

Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking is crucial. This resting period lets the ingredients settle and the flavors meld, ensuring that every bite is as delicious as the last.

Serving Suggestions

A Chicken Rice and Broccoli Casserole is a hearty meal on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides to round out your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to complement your casserole:

Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the casserole, adding a refreshing contrast to your meal.

Crusty Bread: Serve your casserole with a side of warm, crusty bread to soak up any creamy sauce. A garlic bread would be especially delightful, adding a punch of flavor.

Roasted Vegetables: For an even more veggie-packed meal, consider roasting some seasonal vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs.

Fruit Salad: A light and sweet fruit salad can be a refreshing end to your meal, offering a palate-cleansing contrast to the savory casserole.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven cold from the fridge.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly? Absolutely. To freeze, prepare the casserole without baking, wrap it well in foil or freezer-safe wrap, and freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed, adding a bit more time if necessary.

Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the casserole to prevent it from becoming soggy.

How can I make this casserole healthier? To make a healthier version, consider using low-fat soup, mayonnaise, and cheese. You can also increase the broccoli and use brown rice for added fiber.

What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup? If you prefer not to use cream of chicken soup, you can make a simple white sauce flavored with chicken broth as an alternative. This gives you more control over the ingredients and sodium content.

How long does the casserole keep? Leftover casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container.

Chicken Rice and Broccoli Casserole

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This Chicken Rice and Broccoli Casserole is a staple in my kitchen for its comforting warmth, balanced flavors, and the wholesome goodness it brings to the table.

Ingredients

2 cups of cooked chicken shredded (You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or boil and shred chicken breasts.)
1 cup of rice white or brown, according to your preference, cooked
2 cups of broccoli florets steamed until just tender
1 can 10.5 oz of cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom soup for a variation)

1/2 cup of mayonnaise
1 cup of milk
1 cup of cheddar cheese shredded (plus extra for topping, if desired)

1 teaspoon of garlic powder
1 teaspoon of onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 teaspoon of paprika optional, for garnish
Cooking spray or a bit of butter for greasing the casserole dish

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, take this time to gather your ingredients and reflect on the comfort this meal is about to bring.

Prepare the casserole dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or a bit of butter. This helps to ensure that nothing sticks and makes clean-up a breeze.
Combine the ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, mix the cooked chicken, cooked rice, and steamed broccoli. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour this creamy mixture over the chicken, rice, and broccoli. Stir everything together until well combined. Fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to add that irresistible cheesy goodness throughout.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Spread it out evenly with a spoon or spatula. If you’re a cheese lover like I am, feel free to sprinkle some extra cheddar cheese on top for that golden, bubbly finish.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden. For a touch of color and a hint of smokiness, lightly sprinkle paprika over the casserole before serving.
Serve and enjoy! Once the casserole is beautifully baked, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. This patience pays off, as it allows the flavors to meld together even more and makes serving easier.