If you’re craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, fluffy rice, and ooey-gooey cheese, then this Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine a warm, cheesy embrace every time you dig in—each bite bursting with creamy goodness and a perfect balance of textures. It’s one of those recipes that feels like home, yet is so simple to prepare, making dinner both effortless and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, this casserole is guaranteed to become a favorite on your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole Recipe just right depends on fresh, straightforward ingredients that collectively create rich flavor and a wonderful texture. Each component plays a role, from the tender chicken to the melty cheeses and the punch of seasoning.
- 2 cups cooked rice: Acts as the hearty base that soaks up all the creamy flavors perfectly.
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: Provides lean protein with a tender bite.
- 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets, steamed: Adds a pop of color and a nutritious crunch.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Gives the casserole sharp, savory depth.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts smoothly to create that irresistible gooey texture.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Brings velvety creaminess and rich chicken flavor.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Enhances creaminess while keeping the casserole moist.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds a subtle tang and silky texture.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Offers a fragrant depth without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Balances the flavors with mild sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Elevates all the flavors; adjust to taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides just the right hint of spice.
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers (optional, for topping): Adds a buttery, crunchy finish.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (optional, for topping): Helps the cracker topping crisp up beautifully.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole will cook evenly and come out perfectly golden on top. Preparing your space now keeps everything running smoothly.
Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the cooked rice, shredded chicken, and steamed broccoli. This trio forms the hearty foundation of our casserole—each ingredient adding its unique texture and flavor.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Base
Add the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Stir everything until fully combined, creating a luscious sauce that binds the ingredients in perfect harmony.
Step 4: Cheese It Up
Fold in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, spreading them evenly throughout the mixture. The cheeses melt during baking, making the dish irresistibly creamy and flavorful.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then spread the casserole mixture evenly in it. An even layer ensures consistent cooking and a gorgeous golden finish.
Step 6: Optional Crunchy Topping
If you love a bit of crunch, mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and sprinkle the mixture on top of the casserole. This step adds texture contrast and buttery richness that elevates the whole dish.
Step 7: Bake Until Bubbly
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for the top to turn a beautiful golden brown and the cheese to bubble enticingly. That’s when you know it’s ready.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
After baking, give the casserole several minutes to cool slightly. This helps it set a bit so it serves beautifully without falling apart, keeping all that creamy goodness intact.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a burst of color and a little freshness that counters the rich creaminess wonderfully. For an extra kick, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce can also complement this casserole nicely.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines as a stand-alone comfort meal but pairs exceptionally well with a crisp green salad or a light vinaigrette-dressed slaw. Roasted veggies or a simple tomato cucumber salad also offer brightness to balance the creamy dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a classy, personalized touch. Or transform leftovers into stuffed bell peppers or wraps for a fun, portable lunch option. Using fresh herbs as a garnish helps make every serving look as inviting as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate. It stays delicious for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy a quick and satisfying meal later in the week.
Freezing
This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. To freeze, assemble the casserole but do not bake. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for convenience—but the oven will revive that crispy, golden topping better.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice works just fine in this casserole and adds a nuttier flavor and extra fiber. Just be sure your brown rice is fully cooked before mixing it in.
Is it possible to make this casserole dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy-free cheese and sour cream options and use a dairy-free cream soup substitute. The texture will be similar, but the flavor may vary slightly.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in cooked mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots to customize the casserole to your taste preferences.
What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
You can make a quick homemade version with chicken broth, flour, and milk or use cream of mushroom soup as an alternative. Both will create a creamy texture that works well here.
How do I make the topping crunchy without crackers?
Try using breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter or chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for a delightful crunch on top.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole Recipe is one of those soul-satisfying meals that bring warmth and smiles to the table without complicated fuss. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with wholesome ingredients that everyone loves. Next time you want an easy yet impressive dish, don’t hesitate to give this recipe a whirl—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
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Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender chicken, steamed broccoli, and cooked rice in a rich mixture of cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Topped with melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses and an optional buttery Ritz cracker crust, it’s baked to golden perfection, making it a perfect family-friendly meal or cozy dinner option.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Topping
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Combine Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix the cooked rice, shredded chicken, and steamed broccoli until evenly combined.
- Add Creamy Mixture: Add the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended.
- Incorporate Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, ensuring the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and transfer your mixture into it, spreading it out evenly for uniform cooking.
- Add Topping (Optional): If desired, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole for a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and to avoid burns.
Notes
- You can use fresh or frozen broccoli; just be sure to steam it first for best texture.
- The Ritz cracker topping adds a nice crunch but can be omitted for a softer casserole.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheated in the oven.
- For a lighter version, use reduced-fat mayonnaise and sour cream and a low-fat cream of chicken soup.
- This casserole is versatile and can be customized with other veggies or cheeses to suit your taste.
