Do Share Recipe

Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe | Comfort Meal

When I first made this cheesy broccoli chicken and rice casserole recipe, I didn’t expect it to become such a family favorite. The creamy texture, gooey melted cheese, and comforting combination of chicken, rice, and broccoli made it feel like the perfect weeknight meal. I remember pulling it out of the oven, golden and bubbling, and everyone instantly gathered around.

It’s one of those recipes that brings warmth and satisfaction in every bite, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. If you’re looking for something cozy, quick, and full of flavor, this casserole might just be your new go-to dinner — or you can also enjoy a similar Creamy Chicken, Leek and Thyme Pie Recipe for another comforting meal idea.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this cheesy, hearty casserole. Each ingredient plays a special role in bringing out the best flavor and texture.

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces – Chicken thighs stay juicy and tender after baking. You can use chicken breast if you prefer, but thighs add more flavor.
½ white onion, diced – Adds a sweet, savory base to the casserole. Sautéing it with chicken enhances depth of flavor.
2 cups broccoli florets, chopped small – Fresh or frozen both work, but small florets blend better into each bite. If using frozen, thaw and drain well.
1½ cups cooked white rice – Pre-cooked rice ensures even texture and prevents a soggy casserole. Leftover rice works perfectly here.
1 (14 oz) can cream of mushroom soup – This creates the creamy base that ties everything together. You can also use cream of chicken soup if you prefer.
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded – Always grate it fresh from a block for smoother melting and richer flavor.
2 tbsp vegetable oil (or olive oil) – Used to sauté the chicken and onion for the best texture.
1 tsp seasoning salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
1 tsp black pepper – Adds a subtle heat that balances the creaminess.
1 tsp paprika – Optional, for a smoky hint and bright color on top.
1 tsp dried parsley flakes – Adds freshness and a pop of color for presentation.

Note: Serves 8

Variations

There are plenty of ways to customize this recipe to fit your taste or dietary needs:

Dairy-free: Swap the cream of mushroom soup with a dairy-free cream alternative and use dairy-free shredded cheese.
Low-carb: Replace the cooked rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb option.
Vegetable boost: Add peas, diced bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra color and nutrition.
Different protein: Try cooked shredded turkey or rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.
Crunchy topping: Add crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs before baking for a crispy golden topping.

If you love experimenting with comfort food twists, the Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread Recipe is another fun and cheesy dish to try next.

Cooking Time

This recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Equipment You Need

You won’t need much — just a few kitchen staples:

Large skillet: To sauté the chicken and onions.
9×13-inch baking dish: For assembling and baking the casserole.
Cutting board & knife: For chopping chicken, onion, and broccoli.
Mixing spoon or spatula: To combine the ingredients evenly.

How to Make Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Let’s break it down step by step — it’s super easy to make and comes together fast.

Step 1: Cook the chicken and onions

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and onions. Season with seasoning salt and pepper, then cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked and the onions are soft and fragrant.

Step 2: Add broccoli and rice

Stir in the chopped broccoli and cooked rice. If using frozen broccoli, make sure it’s thawed and drained to avoid extra moisture. Mix everything so the ingredients are evenly distributed in the skillet.

Step 3: Combine with soup and cheese

Add the cream of mushroom soup and half of the shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir until the mixture is creamy and fully coated. Everything should be evenly mixed and slightly thick.

Step 4: Transfer to baking dish and top

Grease your baking dish, then spread the mixture evenly into it. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, then finish with a dusting of paprika and parsley for color.

Step 5: Bake until golden and bubbly

Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, golden, and bubbling around the edges.

Step 6: Rest and serve

Once baked, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This short rest helps it set and makes it easier to scoop neat servings.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

I’ve made this recipe many times, and here are a few tricks I’ve learned that make it even better:

Always shred your own cheese — it melts creamier and doesn’t clump like bagged cheese.
Don’t overcook the chicken before baking — it continues to cook in the oven, so just sauté until it’s no longer pink.
Chop the broccoli into small, bite-sized pieces so it blends nicely with the rice.
If you like more flavor, sprinkle a bit of garlic powder or onion powder into the mix before baking.
For a crispy top, add crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for the last few minutes of baking.

How to Serve Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but I love pairing it with a few simple sides. Serve it with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for balance. For a prettier presentation, sprinkle fresh parsley or extra cheese on top just before serving. It’s warm, hearty, and looks great right out of the baking dish.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a general idea of the nutritional values per serving (may vary slightly based on ingredients used):

Calories: 320
Protein: 24 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fat: 14 g

This casserole is balanced with protein, carbs, and fat — a satisfying all-in-one dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing in the Fridge

Once cooled, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing

You can freeze it either before or after baking. If unbaked, wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until warmed through. For a quicker option, microwave individual portions, covering them to keep the moisture in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s a reason I keep making this casserole again and again — it’s simple, delicious, and comforting. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it too:

Effortless to make: It uses everyday ingredients and takes less than an hour start to finish.
Family-friendly: Everyone loves the cheesy, creamy flavor — even picky eaters.
Customizable: You can switch up the veggies, protein, or cheese to suit your taste.
Perfect for meal prep: Great for freezing or making ahead for busy days.
Comfort in every bite: It’s creamy, cheesy, warm, and perfectly satisfying — the ultimate comfort food.

Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole is that reliable, cozy dinner that never fails. It’s easy to whip up, full of flavor, and makes everyone happy at the table. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or prepping for leftovers, this dish hits the spot every time.

Ben Carraoli