Nothing beats the cozy comfort of a warm, cheesy casserole on a busy weeknight. Our Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy rice in a rich, flavorful sauce that will satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe is designed to be family-friendly, easy to prepare, and full of wholesome ingredients, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.

Whether you’re looking for a wholesome meal to feed the family or a comforting dish to warm your soul, this casserole checks all the boxes. In this article, we’ll cover everything from the ingredients and instructions to helpful tips, variations, and serving suggestions.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
2 cups broccoli florets, lightly steamed
2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray.
Cook the broccoli and rice: Steam the broccoli florets until tender-crisp and cook the rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
Sauté aromatics: In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
Combine the creamy base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Add main ingredients: Stir in the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, sautéed onion and garlic, and cooked rice. Mix until everything is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
Transfer to baking dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top. If using, add breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
Cool and serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps it set slightly and makes it easier to slice.

Tips for the Perfect Casserole

Cheese choice matters: For extra creaminess, use a mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella. The cheddar adds flavor while mozzarella gives a gooey melt.
Chicken prep: Rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe, saving time without sacrificing flavor.
Broccoli texture: Steam broccoli just until bright green and tender-crisp. Overcooking will make it mushy in the casserole.
Rice variations: Brown rice adds nutty flavor and fiber, while white rice makes the dish creamier.

Variations

Low-carb version: Swap rice for cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb casserole.
Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with chickpeas or extra vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms.
Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the creamy mixture.
Cheesy topping: Mix shredded Parmesan with panko breadcrumbs and a drizzle of olive oil for a crunchy topping.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
Serve with garlic bread or warm dinner rolls to scoop up the creamy goodness.
Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for color and a mild herbal note.

Fun Facts & Cultural Context

Casseroles have been a staple of American home cooking since the 20th century, often enjoyed as a comforting, one-dish meal that’s easy to prepare in large quantities. The combination of chicken, broccoli, and rice has become a modern classic, balancing protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates in a creamy, cheesy package. This dish also reflects the versatility of casseroles: you can easily adapt it to different dietary needs, spice levels, or flavor preferences while keeping it family-friendly.

Why This Recipe Works

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and satisfying without being overly heavy. The broccoli adds color and nutrition, the chicken provides lean protein, and the rice creates a comforting, filling base. Baking allows the flavors to meld, producing a casserole that tastes even better the next day — perfect for leftovers.

With a mix of textures — creamy filling, tender chicken, slight crisp on top — and rich flavors, this casserole will likely become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. It’s easy enough for beginners but comforting enough for seasoned home cooks to feel proud serving it.

Storage & Make-Ahead

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze before baking in a foil pan for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 45–50 minutes.
Reheating: Microwave individual portions or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.

Quick Summary

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6–8

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and simple to prepare — perfect for busy families, potlucks, or meal prep.