Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole is a cozy, filling dish that combines tender chicken, tender-crisp broccoli, fluffy rice, and lots of melty cheese all baked together in one pan. The creamy sauce ties everything together perfectly, making it a comforting and satisfying meal that warms you up on any night.
I love how this casserole comes together in one dish, which means less cleanup and more time to relax. The mix of textures—from the soft rice and chicken to the slight crunch of broccoli—always keeps things interesting. I usually make an extra batch because it tastes even better the next day, and it’s perfect for leftovers or taking to a friend’s house.
My favorite way to serve this is with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to mop up all the cheesy sauce. It’s one of those meals that feels like a big, warm hug on a plate, and it’s great for feeding a hungry family or a group of friends. Whenever I make it, everyone always asks for seconds, and I’m happy to oblige!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using cooked chicken breast adds protein and a mild flavor. You can swap it for rotisserie chicken or turkey for convenience and a different twist.
Rice: White rice works well here, but brown rice adds nuttiness and extra fiber. For a low-carb version, cauliflower rice is a great choice.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives a nice bite, but frozen works fine if steamed first. You can also try other green veggies like spinach or green beans.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella add creamy, melty textures. Feel free to use Monterey Jack or Colby for a milder taste or sharper cheeses for bold flavor.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess. If you’d prefer homemade, mix a béchamel sauce with chicken broth or use cream of mushroom for a vegetarian twist.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Both add tanginess and creaminess. Greek yogurt is a lighter, protein-packed option if you want to cut calories.
How Do I Get a Creamy Sauce That Isn’t Too Runny or Dry?
The creamy sauce is what holds this casserole together and keeps it moist—so getting the balance right is key. Here’s how:
- Mix the condensed soup, sour cream, and milk well until smooth. This combo forms the base of your sauce.
- Coat the chicken, rice, and broccoli evenly with the sauce. This helps everything stick together and stay moist while baking.
- Don’t overbake! Around 25-30 minutes is enough to heat through and melt the cheese without drying it out.
- Let the casserole rest 5 minutes after baking. This helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes serving easier.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – I like using a big bowl to easily combine all the creamy ingredients and mix everything together.
- Greased casserole dish – a 9×13-inch dish works well to hold all the ingredients and get the sides crispy.
- Measuring cups and spoons – essential for pinpointing the right amounts of soups, spices, and cheese.
- Stirring spoon or spatula – makes mixing smooth and easy without spilling.
- Oven mitts – for safely removing the casserole hot from the oven.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Switch up the protein by using cooked turkey, ham, or even cooked shrimp for different flavors.
- Try adding a layer of cooked bacon or pancetta for extra smoky flavor and crunch.
- Mix in sliced mushrooms, chopped bell peppers, or diced tomatoes to boost veggies and texture.
- Swap cheddar for provolone or Monterey Jack for a different cheesy taste that melts well and complements the other flavors.
Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 3 cups cooked white rice
- 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, steamed until tender-crisp)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. Plan for a few extra minutes to let the casserole cool before serving, so the flavors set perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a large casserole dish or oven-safe pot so the casserole won’t stick.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In a big mixing bowl, stir together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well mixed.
3. Combine Main Ingredients:
Add the cooked chicken, cooked rice, steamed broccoli, 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, and all of the mozzarella cheese into the sauce. Mix everything gently until all pieces are evenly covered with the creamy sauce.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the mixture into your prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
5. Bake and Serve:
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese on top melts to a golden finish. Take it out and let it rest for 5 minutes—this helps it set and cool just enough for easy serving. If you like, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a bit of color and freshness.
Enjoy your warm, cheesy, comforting Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole! It goes great with a simple salad or some crusty garlic bread.
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli in This Casserole?
Yes! Just be sure to steam or blanch the frozen broccoli first until it’s tender-crisp, then drain any excess water before mixing it in. This prevents your casserole from becoming watery.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to ensure it’s heated through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if the casserole seems dry.
Can I Substitute the Cream of Chicken Soup?
Yes, you can use cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade creamy sauce as a substitute. For a healthier option, try a béchamel sauce with chicken broth and a bit of flour or cornstarch as a thickener.
