If you're looking for a hearty, comforting meal that combines wholesome ingredients with creamy, cheesy goodness, this broccoli rice cheese casserole with chicken is your new go-to recipe. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze and perfect for feeding a hungry family. You’ll love how the tender chicken, fluffy rice, and crisp broccoli come together under a golden cheese crust.
This broccoli rice cheese casserole recipe is not only delicious but also packed with protein and veggies, making it a well-rounded dish that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s customizable and stores well, so it’s great for leftovers or meal prep too.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and creamy with a cheesy, golden top
- Balanced meal with protein, veggies, and carbs in one dish
- Easy to prepare with common pantry ingredients
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping ahead
- Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly for convenience
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to make your broccoli rice cheese casserole with chicken come together effortlessly.
- 2 cups cooked white rice (about 1/2 cup uncooked)
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
YOUR NEXT FAVORITE RECIPE STARTS HERE
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
How to Make Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, shredded chicken, broccoli florets, sautéed onion and garlic, sour cream, mayonnaise, milk, Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, pepper, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese on top for a golden crust.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and the casserole set.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use freshly cooked rice that is slightly cooled to prevent mushiness.
- For a creamier texture, substitute half the sour cream with cream cheese.
- Roast or steam broccoli lightly beforehand to keep it tender but still crisp in the casserole.
- Leftover cooked chicken works perfectly and saves time.
- Feel free to swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different cheese flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover broccoli rice cheese casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions until heated through.
This casserole also freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating using the oven method for best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute cooked brown rice for white rice. Just be aware that brown rice has a chewier texture and a nuttier flavor, which may slightly change the overall taste and texture of the casserole.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free mayonnaise and check that your seasonings contain no gluten additives.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! You can mix in vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas to add more color and nutrition to the casserole.
How can I make this casserole lower in calories?
Try using reduced-fat cheese, light sour cream, and swapping mayonnaise for Greek yogurt to reduce calories while maintaining creaminess.