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Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

A warm, comforting one-dish casserole packed with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, fluffy rice, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for family dinners, busy weeknights, or meal prep, this cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole is easy to make and loved by all ages.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced

Vegetables

  • 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Grains

  • 2 cups cooked white or brown rice

Dairy & Sauces

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken or mushroom soup
  • 1/2 cup milk

Seasonings

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika or Italian herbs (optional)
  • 12 tablespoons cooking oil (for sautéing)

Instructions

  1. Prepare your ingredients: Cook your rice and chicken if not using pre-cooked. Chop broccoli into bite-sized florets. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Sauté aromatics: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Combine main ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir together cooked rice, cooked chicken, broccoli, sautéed onions and garlic, condensed soup, milk, and half of the shredded cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika or Italian herbs, mixing until evenly combined.
  4. Transfer and top: Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top to create a golden crust when baked.
  5. Bake until bubbly: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and edges are slightly browned. Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Keep broccoli slightly crisp by not overcooking it prior to baking.
  • Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and creamier texture.
  • Prep the mixture the night before without adding the cheese topping, then bake fresh when ready.
  • Add sautéed mushrooms or cooked bacon for extra flavor.
  • If casserole looks too runny before baking, add 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs to absorb excess moisture.
  • Ensure cooked vegetables are well-drained to avoid sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy chicken casserole, broccoli rice casserole, comfort food, one-dish meal, easy dinner, family-friendly, meal prep