If you’re searching for comfort food that checks all the boxes for warmth, heartiness, and a touch of nostalgia, you’ve got to try this fantastic Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe. It’s one of those all-in-one dishes that feels incredibly satisfying without any fuss, bringing together tender chicken, creamy cheese, fluffy rice, and vibrant broccoli in every delicious bite. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a potluck favorite, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that cooks up easily and nourishes beautifully.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, wholesome ingredients make this casserole shine, each bringing its own essential texture and flavor. From the creamy melted cheese to the fresh pop of broccoli and hearty chicken, every component plays an important role in creating that perfect balance between creamy, savory, and colorful.
- 2 cups water: Used to perfectly cook the instant rice, providing a soft base for the casserole.
- 2 cups uncooked instant rice: Quick-cooking and fluffy to soak up all the creamy flavors.
- 2 (10 ounce) cans chunk chicken, drained: Tender, ready-to-use chicken adds satisfying protein throughout.
- 1 (16 ounce) package frozen chopped broccoli: Adds a fresh green crunch and vibrant color to the dish.
- 1 pound processed cheese food, cubed (such as Velveeta): Offers amazing creaminess and rich cheesy flavor that melts beautifully.
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup: Deepens the savory flavor and adds a gentle earthiness.
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup: Enhances the chicken taste while keeping the casserole moist.
- 1 cup milk: Softens the soups and cheese, blending everything smoothly together.
- ¼ cup butter, cubed: Adds richness and a velvety texture to every spoonful.
- 1 small white onion, chopped: Brings a mild sweetness and depth of flavor when baked.
How to Make Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius), getting everything ready for baking. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan, then stir in the instant rice. Cover the pan and remove it from heat, letting the rice steam for about 5 minutes so it turns perfectly fluffy without becoming mushy.
Step 2: Combine All Ingredients
In a roomy 9×13 inch baking dish, add the cooked rice, drained chunk chicken, frozen chopped broccoli, and cubed processed cheese. Next, pour in the condiments — cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and milk — which will meld together into a creamy sauce while baking. Toss in the butter cubes and chopped white onion for a buttery, flavorful touch, then mix everything thoroughly to make sure every bite gets a fair share of goodness.
Step 3: Bake the Casserole
Place your loaded casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Halfway through cooking, give everything a gentle stir to encourage even melting of the cheese and to keep all the flavors melding perfectly. When the dish is bubbly and golden, it’s ready to come out and make your kitchen smell irresistible.
How to Serve Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your casserole presentation, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top right before serving. These little green herbs add a pop of brightness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, cheesy layers. If you like a bit of crunch, toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crispy onions scattered on top can add a delightful texture.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a fantastic dish on its own, but pairing it with a fresh side salad or a crisp vegetable medley can lighten the meal perfectly. Something like a tangy coleslaw or a simple cucumber and tomato salad complements the rich casserole by adding freshness and a little zing.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in small ramekins or muffin tins to create personal-sized casserole cups. This looks charming and is perfect for potlucks or casual family dinners. You can also layer additional ingredients like sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers in the casserole for extra flavor dimensions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. Your Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe will keep well for up to 3 to 4 days, making it an ideal meal to enjoy for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers before baking or freeze after it’s baked and cooled. Frozen casserole will keep for about 2 to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain creamy texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, place your portion in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) until warmed through, around 20 minutes, or microwave it for a quicker option. Add a splash of milk if it seems a bit dry, stirring gently to restore that creamy cheesy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen in the casserole?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli works great if you steam it lightly beforehand so it cooks evenly with the rest of the casserole. Frozen broccoli is just convenient and adds a bit more moisture.
Is this casserole suitable for making ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Then bake it fresh when you’re ready. It saves prep time and helps flavors meld wonderfully.
Can I substitute the processed cheese with real cheese?
You can! Using cheddar or a blend of cheeses will give a more natural flavor, but it might change the melting texture slightly. Just make sure the cheese you choose melts well.
What can I serve with this casserole for a balanced meal?
A crisp green salad or some roasted veggies alongside will add fresh contrast and balance the richness of the casserole beautifully.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Yes, you can omit the chicken and perhaps add extra veggies like mushrooms or beans for protein. Using vegetable soup instead of cream of chicken will keep it vegetarian-friendly.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like settling in with a comforting, cheesy casserole that feels like a big warm hug, and this Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe truly does just that. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner, yet satisfying and flavorful enough to make any mealtime special. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this dish soon—you might just find it becoming one of your favorite go-tos for cozy, delicious family meals.
Print
Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, creamy cheeses, and fluffy rice into a hearty, cheesy baked dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Rice Mixture
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups uncooked instant rice
Main Ingredients
- 2 (10 ounce) cans chunk chicken, drained
- 1 (16 ounce) package frozen chopped broccoli
- 1 pound processed cheese food, cubed (such as Velveeta)
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- ¼ cup butter, cubed
- 1 small white onion, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat and Cook Rice: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan. Stir in 2 cups of uncooked instant rice, cover the saucepan, and remove it from heat. Let the rice stand for 5 minutes to absorb the water and fluff up.
- Combine Ingredients: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine the cooked rice, drained chunk chicken, frozen chopped broccoli, cubed processed cheese, condensed cream of mushroom soup, condensed cream of chicken soup, milk, cubed butter, and chopped white onion. Mix all ingredients thoroughly to evenly distribute the flavors and cheese.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Halfway through baking, stir the casserole to ensure even melting of the cheese and to blend the ingredients together. Bake until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly on top.
Notes
- Using processed cheese like Velveeta helps achieve that creamy, smooth texture in the casserole.
- Feel free to substitute fresh broccoli for frozen, but steam or blanch it before adding to the casserole.
- If you prefer a lower sodium version, opt for reduced-sodium canned soups and cheese.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking; just add extra baking time if baking from cold.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
