Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

This Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole is pure comfort food—tender chicken, fluffy rice, vibrant broccoli, and layers of gooey cheddar all baked together in one cozy dish. It delivers homestyle flavor in every creamy, cheesy bite, and it’s so simple to put together, you’ll want to make it every week!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Just a handful of kitchen staples come together to bring this Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole to life. Each one plays its part—whether it’s infusing flavor, making the dish extra creamy, or adding that irresistible golden cheese melt on top.

• Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless breasts cut into cubes result in super tender bites and cook up perfectly in the casserole.
• Onion: A finely chopped onion adds a sweet, aromatic base flavor that melds into the sauce as it cooks.
• Garlic: Two cloves, minced—garlic brings a sharp but subtle warmth that makes everything pop.
• White long grain rice: Rinsed rice bakes up tender and fluffy while soaking in every bit of savory broth.
• Chicken stock: This gives the rice and chicken deep, savory flavor you just won’t get from water alone.
• Water: Keeps everything moist so the rice cooks evenly and doesn’t get sticky.
• Broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli adds color and crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy rice and gooey cheese.
• Milk: Just a splash brings extra creaminess and makes the casserole beautifully luscious.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: The star ingredient—divided for that creamy, cheesy base and the lovely, bubbling top.
• Olive oil, salt, pepper: Simple, everyday seasonings that help tie everything together.

Variations

One of my favorite things about Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole is how easy it is to customize! Whether you’re clearing out the fridge, eating gluten-free, or catering to picky eaters, these simple swaps and add-ins make the recipe your own.

• Add Mushrooms: Sauté some sliced cremini or button mushrooms with the onions for extra earthiness.
• Swap the Protein: Use rotisserie chicken, leftover turkey, or even cooked ham for a fun twist and zero waste.
• Go Extra-Veggie: Toss in a handful of peas, shredded carrots, or spinach to bump up the veggie content and color.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like a gentle heat with your cheese.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: This casserole is naturally gluten-free—just make sure your stock and seasonings don’t contain hidden sources!

How to Make Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole

Step 1: Prep and Brown the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes, then give them a quick season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe pan over medium-high until it shimmers, and sauté the chicken just until golden brown on all sides. Don’t worry about cooking it through yet—it will finish baking in the casserole for perfectly juicy bites. Browning simply builds that crave-worthy flavor!

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Transfer your browned chicken pieces to a plate, then add chopped onion directly to the pan. Stir and cook until the onion softens and turns translucent, about 5 minutes, then stir in your garlic for a fragrant 30-second sizzle.

Step 3: Build the Casserole Base

Place the chicken cubes back into the pan with the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir in the rinsed rice, chicken stock, and water until everything is fully combined. Bring to a gentle boil, reduce the heat, and cover—this lets the rice absorb all the savory flavors and form the perfect base for your Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole.

Step 4: Add Broccoli and Cook the Rice

After about 10 minutes, lift the lid and stir in your chopped broccoli florets. Recover the pot and cook until the rice is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed—remember to give an occasional stir so nothing sticks or burns at the bottom. This step ensures tender, bright green broccoli that’s never mushy!

Step 5: Finish with Cheese & Bake

With the rice fully cooked, stir in the milk to create a creamier consistency, then fold in half of the shredded sharp cheddar until melted into the rice. Smooth everything out, sprinkle the rest of the cheddar on top, and transfer your pan to a 425°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fantastically golden and bubbling.

How to Serve Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole

Garnishes

Top each serving with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thinly sliced green onions for a pop of color and a hint of freshness—these little touches really elevate the casserole’s look and flavor.

Side Dishes

This cozy casserole is nearly a meal on its own, but I love to serve it alongside a crisp green salad or simple roasted vegetables for extra crunch and color. Warm, crusty bread is wonderful for soaking up every last cheesy bite!

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, spoon your Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole into individual ramekins or oven-safe bowls before popping them in the oven—everyone gets their own bubbly portion! If you’re serving a crowd, garnish the entire casserole straight from the baking dish with more herbs and an extra grating of cheddar just before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole are a true gift—just transfer any cooled portions into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to four days. The flavors meld and become even more irresistible overnight!

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully! Wrap individual portions or the whole cooled dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to keep everything creamy and delicious.

Reheating

To reheat, pop servings in the microwave in 30-second bursts or bake (covered with foil) in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly. A fresh sprinkle of cheese before reheating never hurts—just for that gooey “just baked” finish!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a simple, irresistibly cozy dinner, this Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole truly checks all the boxes. It’s the kind of dish you’ll crave again and again, so I hope you’ll give it a try soon—your loved ones (and your tastebuds!) will thank you.

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