Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

If you’re a fan of comfort food that’s both hearty and wholesome, then you’re in for a real treat with this Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe. Imagine tender shredded chicken, vibrant green broccoli florets, and fluffy rice all baked together in a luscious creamy sauce, crowned with melted cheddar and Parmesan. It’s a perfect one-dish meal that combines creamy textures, cheesy goodness, and a delightful balance of flavors that make every bite simply irresistible. Whether you want a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your family, this casserole is bound to become one of your new favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This casserole shines because of its simple, everyday ingredients that each bring their own flair to the dish. From the tender chicken for protein, to the fresh broccoli adding that perfect pop of color and crunch, and cheeses delivering creamy richness, every single component plays a vital role in creating a deeply satisfying meal.

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded: Use leftover roasted chicken or quick-poach chicken breasts for tenderness and flavor.
• 2 cups broccoli florets: Fresh or lightly steamed broccoli works best to keep its bright green color and slight crunch.
• 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked: Provides a fluffy base that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth: Adds moisture and savory depth to the casserole.
• 1 cup milk: Creates creaminess and helps with the cheesy texture.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully, bringing bold, sharp flavor.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty kick to balance the cheddar.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Boosts creaminess and tanginess for a lovely rich taste.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and aromatic notes when cooked.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with warm, savory undertones.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Provides a silky base for sautéing and richness.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing and subtle fruity flavor.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all flavors in the casserole.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds mild heat and complexity.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Gives a smoky touch and beautiful color.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers an earthy herbaceous note that complements the chicken and cheese.

How to Make Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This simple step sets you up for a smooth assembly later, preventing the casserole from sticking and making cleanup easier.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, combine olive oil and butter for a perfect flavor foundation. Toss in the finely chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, around 3 to 4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic for about 30 seconds just until fragrant – this brings out a warm aroma that will make your kitchen smell amazing.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir well so each grain is nicely coated with the buttery, garlicky goodness. Cooking it for 1 to 2 minutes like this gives a subtle nutty flavor and ensures a better texture when baked into the casserole.

Step 4: Combine Main Ingredients

Transfer the rice mixture into your prepared baking dish. Add the shredded chicken, broccoli florets, chicken broth, milk, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Stir everything gently but thoroughly to evenly distribute flavors and ensure every bite is packed with deliciousness.

Step 5: Bake Covered

Seal the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. This steaming step allows the rice to cook through and flavors to meld together beautifully, while keeping the dish moist.

Step 6: Check Rice and Continue Baking if Needed

Remove the foil and stir the casserole, checking if the rice is tender. If it needs more time, cover again and bake an extra 5 to 10 minutes, ensuring a perfectly cooked base without any crunchiness.

Step 7: Add Sour Cream and Cheese

Stir the sour cream into the warm casserole for that creamy tang everyone loves. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan evenly over the top, giving it that irresistible cheesy crust.

Step 8: Final Bake Until Bubbling

Pop the uncovered dish back into the oven for 10 to 15 minutes, just until the cheese melts and bubbles enticingly, developing golden spots that promise pure comfort in every bite.

Step 9: Rest and Serve

Let your Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set up nicely, making it easier to portion and allowing flavors to settle perfectly.

How to Serve Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate the presentation and add a fresh contrast, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top. A light dusting of smoked paprika can also enhance both color and flavor, giving your casserole a beautiful final touch that feels special.

Side Dishes

This casserole stands well on its own but pairs exceptionally with crisp green salads or roasted root vegetables. Simple garlic bread or warm dinner rolls complement the creamy, cheesy dish perfectly, rounding out the meal with delightful textures and tastes.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a personalized touch, or layer the leftovers with extra cheese on top and broil for a few minutes to create a crunchy crust. Adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze or hot honey on the side introduces a surprising burst of flavor your guests will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooling, store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making the next-day meal just as comforting and delicious.

Freezing

This Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap the entire dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It will keep well for up to 2 months, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or busy nights.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered in the microwave or oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15 to 20 minutes if baking. You can add a splash of milk before reheating to restore creaminess and cover the dish to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.

Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?

Absolutely! The recipe as written is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free chicken broth. Double-check labels to ensure all ingredients fit your dietary needs.

Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Definitely! This casserole is versatile. Try shredded turkey, cooked sausage, or even a plant-based protein if you want a meatless twist.

What type of rice works best?

Long grain white rice is ideal because it cooks evenly and remains fluffy. Avoid quick-cooking varieties which may become mushy.

How creamy should the casserole be?

It should be delightfully creamy but not soupy. The sour cream and cheeses create a rich texture that binds the ingredients without excess liquid, giving it that perfect cozy consistency.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about the blend of cheesy, creamy textures with wholesome chicken and vibrant broccoli in this Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe. It’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug after a long day, easy to make yet impressively delicious. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try and discover how this cozy casserole can quickly become a family favorite in your kitchen too.

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