Welcome to your new favorite weeknight meal: a hearty and incredibly delicious Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole. This isn’t just any casserole; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures, featuring tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and perfectly cooked rice, all enveloped in a rich, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy sauce. Topped with a golden layer of melted sharp cheddar, every spoonful promises comforting warmth and satisfying goodness. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy preparations – this homemade casserole brings an abundance of flavor to your dinner table with surprising ease, making it the ultimate family-friendly dish for busy evenings.
This classic dinner staple is meticulously crafted from scratch, eschewing canned soups and artificial ingredients for a truly wholesome and flavorful experience. We believe that comfort food should also be real food. Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of lean chicken, nutrient-rich broccoli, fluffy rice, and a velvety cheese sauce that will have everyone reaching for seconds. This casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary hug, perfect for chilly evenings or any time you crave a taste of home. Its robust flavor profile makes it a standout dish that’s both impressive and delightfully simple to prepare.
If you’re constantly seeking more inspiration for quick yet delicious weeknight dinners, consider exploring some of our other crowd-pleasing casserole recipes. You might love our Chicken Taco Casserole for a Tex-Mex twist, the vibrant flavors of our Chicken Fajita Bake, or the rustic charm of our Chicken and Potato Bake. Each offers a unique way to enjoy wholesome ingredients in a convenient casserole format.
WHY THIS CHICKEN BROCCOLI AND RICE CASSEROLE IS A MUST-TRY
- A Complete, Wholesome Meal in One Dish. This casserole thoughtfully combines tender protein from chicken, essential carbohydrates from rice, and vital vitamins and fiber from broccoli. It’s a beautifully balanced and satisfying meal that hits all the major food groups, simplifying meal planning and ensuring your family gets a nutritious dinner without multiple side dishes. It’s the quintessential comfort food, delivering both nourishment and deep satisfaction in every bite.
- Irresistibly Creamy, Dreamy, and Cheesy Sauce. The magic of this casserole lies in its luxurious sauce. We create a rich, velvety base that generously coats every piece of chicken, every floret of broccoli, and every grain of rice. Infused with aromatic spices and a generous amount of sharp cheddar cheese, this sauce is the heart and soul of the dish. It melts beautifully into the casserole, creating an addictive, gooey texture and a savory flavor that makes this meal truly unforgettable.
- Made Entirely From Scratch – No Canned Soups! Bid farewell to processed ingredients and embrace the fresh, vibrant flavors of a truly homemade meal. Our recipe guides you through creating a rich, savory sauce from scratch using simple, natural ingredients. This not only allows you to control the quality and flavor of your casserole but also ensures a healthier, more authentic taste experience free from the preservatives and high sodium found in many canned alternatives.
- Effortless One-Pan (or One-Skillet) Preparation. Designed for convenience, much of this casserole can be prepared in a single oven-safe skillet, significantly reducing cleanup. From browning the chicken to building the creamy sauce and mixing in the other components, minimizing dishes means more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing. This streamlined process makes it perfect for busy weeknights when time is precious but a delicious, home-cooked meal is a priority.
KEY INGREDIENTS FOR YOUR PERFECT CASSEROLE
Crafting the perfect Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole begins with selecting high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some tips for optimal results:
- Chicken: We recommend boneless, skinless chicken tenders, cubed into uniform 1-inch pieces for even cooking and easy eating. Chicken breasts or thighs can also be used; simply adjust cooking time slightly.
- Chicken Spices: A simple yet powerful blend of salt, freshly ground black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder will season your chicken perfectly, building foundational flavor.
- Olive Oil: Essential for sautéing the chicken and forming the roux, adding a subtle richness.
- Butter: Combined with olive oil, butter forms the base of our scratch-made roux, contributing a silky texture and depth of flavor to the sauce.
- All-Purpose Flour: The thickening agent for our creamy sauce. It’s crucial for creating a smooth, luscious consistency.
- Casserole Spices: Another blend of black pepper, salt, onion powder, and garlic powder, these spices are added to the sauce to enhance its savory profile. Remember to taste and adjust salt later, as the cheese also contributes salinity.
- Cream Cheese: The secret ingredient for an extra-creamy, velvety sauce that sets this casserole apart. It melts beautifully, adding a rich tanginess.
- Long Grain Rice: Pre-cooked long grain rice, such as Jasmine rice, is ideal. Its grains hold their shape well during baking, preventing a mushy texture. Ensure it’s fully cooked before adding to the casserole.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese is divided between the sauce and the topping. Shredding your own ensures better melting and flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties.
- Broccoli Florets: Partially steamed to ensure they are tender-crisp in the final dish. Fresh broccoli yields the best texture and flavor.
- Chicken Broth: The liquid base for our creamy sauce, providing a savory foundation. Opt for low-sodium broth to better control the overall saltiness.
STEP-BY-STEP: CRAFTING YOUR CHEESY CHICKEN BROCCOLI AND RICE CASSEROLE
Follow these detailed steps to create a truly unforgettable casserole:
- Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly as soon as it goes in.
- Prepare the Chicken: Take your boneless, skinless chicken tenders and cut them into uniform 1-inch bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, toss the chicken with ½ teaspoon each of salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder until well coated.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, non-stick (or oven-safe if you plan to bake in it) skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping occasionally, until they are golden brown on the outside and cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a clean bowl and set it aside.
- Build the Roux: Using the same skillet (no need to clean it – the leftover chicken bits add flavor!), melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once melted, stir in ¼ cup all-purpose flour along with 1 teaspoon each of black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder, plus ½ teaspoon of salt. Whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until a smooth, thick, pasty mixture (your roux) forms and lightly cooks, losing its raw flour taste.
- Craft the Casserole Sauce: Gradually pour in 3 cups of chicken broth, whisking vigorously and continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the sauce becomes beautifully smooth and starts to thicken slightly. Reduce the heat to low, then add in 4 ounces of cream cheese, cut into smaller pieces to help it melt faster. Whisk slowly until the cream cheese is completely dissolved and incorporated into the sauce. Let it simmer gently for about 2 minutes, whisking occasionally, until the sauce reaches a wonderfully thick and creamy consistency.
- Incorporate the Cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat. Add 1.5 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the creamy sauce. Stir well to combine. The cheese doesn’t need to fully melt at this stage; it will finish melting as the casserole bakes.
- Combine the Casserole Elements: To the skillet with the cheese sauce, add your partially steamed broccoli florets, the previously cooked chicken, and the 2 cups of pre-cooked long grain rice. Gently fold all the ingredients together until everything is thoroughly combined and evenly coated in the rich, cheesy sauce.
- Choose Your Baking Vessel: At this stage, you have two options:
- Bake in Skillet: If your skillet is oven-safe, you can bake the cheesy chicken broccoli and rice casserole directly in it. Simply smooth the top and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the surface.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: If your skillet is not oven-safe, or you prefer a traditional casserole dish, carefully transfer the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly, then generously top with the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Place your casserole in the preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. Bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly, golden brown, and the cheese is beautifully melted and slightly crisp around the edges.
- Rest and Garnish: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the sauce to set slightly and makes for easier serving. For a fresh touch, garnish with some freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your ultimate comfort food!
EXPERT RECIPE NOTES AND HELPFUL TIPS
- For a Crispy Topping: If you enjoy a delightful crunch, enhance your casserole with a breadcrumb topping. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter and toss it with 1 cup of Panko breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheddar cheese before baking. The Panko will crisp up beautifully, adding a fantastic textural contrast.
- Vegetarian Adaptation: To easily transform this into a delicious vegetarian dish, simply omit the chicken. You can increase the amount of broccoli or add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Mind the Salt Content: Always taste your sauce before adding additional salt. Cheese, particularly sharp cheddar, contributes a significant amount of salt to the dish. It’s easier to add more salt later than to correct an overly salty dish.
- Using Rotisserie Chicken: For a fantastic shortcut, utilize pre-cooked rotisserie chicken breast instead of raw chicken tenders. Shred or cube the rotisserie chicken and simply stir it into the casserole mixture along with the rice and broccoli. Since rotisserie chicken is already seasoned, hold off on adding salt until the very end, and taste test thoroughly. You might not need any extra salt!
- Customize Your Cheese: The amount of cheese is entirely up to your preference. Feel free to use more for an extra cheesy experience or slightly less if you prefer. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a touch of smoked Gouda for a unique flavor.
- Preventing Dry Casserole: If you notice your casserole drying out during baking, especially towards the end, you can loosely cover it with aluminum foil for the last 10-15 minutes. This helps to trap moisture while still allowing the cheese to melt and brown.
- Serving Suggestions: This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with a vinaigrette, or a side of crusty bread to soak up every last bit of that creamy sauce.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ’S)
HOW TO PARTIALLY STEAM BROCCOLI FOR THIS CASSEROLE?
To partially steam your broccoli, place the florets in a microwave-safe bowl with about 1 cup of water. Cover the bowl loosely with plastic wrap or a microwave-safe lid. Microwave on high for just 1 minute. This method ensures the broccoli is tender-crisp, retaining its vibrant color and a slight bite without becoming overly soft or mushy during baking. Alternatively, you can briefly blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then immediately plunge it into an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
WHAT IS THE BEST RICE TO USE FOR CHICKEN BROCCOLI RICE CASSEROLE?
We highly recommend using long grain rice, such as Jasmine rice, for this casserole. The reason is simple: long grain varieties maintain their distinct shape and texture better through the baking process. Shorter grain rice can tend to become softer and potentially mushy when baked in a saucy environment. It is also crucial that the rice is pre-cooked before adding it to the casserole. Uncooked rice would absorb too much of the liquid from the creamy sauce, resulting in a dry casserole and undercooked rice. Cooking it beforehand guarantees a perfect, fluffy texture.
CAN I PREPARE THIS CASSEROLE IN ADVANCE?
Absolutely! This casserole is an excellent make-ahead meal, perfect for simplifying busy schedules. You can prepare the entire dish up to 2 days in advance. Simply follow the recipe instructions all the way up to the baking step. Instead of placing it in the oven, transfer the assembled casserole into your 9×13-inch baking dish, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, top with the remaining cheddar cheese and bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
CAN I USE FROZEN BROCCOLI IN THIS CASSEROLE?
Yes, frozen broccoli is a perfectly acceptable substitute and a great time-saver! When using frozen broccoli, there’s no need to partially steam it beforehand. Just ensure you thaw the frozen florets completely and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This prevents the casserole from becoming watery. Once thawed and dried, add it directly into the mixture along with the chicken and rice.
DELICIOUS VARIATIONS FOR YOUR CHICKEN BROCCOLI AND RICE CASSEROLE
- Make it Vegetarian: Easily adapt this recipe by swapping the chicken for additional broccoli or other hearty vegetables like sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or even a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas for added protein.
- Utilize Rotisserie Chicken: For the ultimate time-saving hack, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Shred the meat and incorporate it into the casserole mixture. Remember to adjust your salt content, as rotisserie chicken is typically well-seasoned.
- Swap White Rice for Brown Rice: For a whole-grain option, brown rice works beautifully. Just ensure it is fully cooked according to package directions before mixing it into the casserole to achieve the desired texture and prevent a dry dish.
- Add a Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to your sauce, or a dash of hot sauce when mixing the ingredients.
- Introduce Other Vegetables: Feel free to customize your casserole with other vegetables like corn, peas, or diced carrots for added color and nutrients.
STORING AND REHEATING LEFTOVERS
This casserole makes fantastic leftovers! For any uneaten portions, allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, maintaining its creamy texture and delicious flavor. For longer storage, this casserole freezes exceptionally well. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe, airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly. For that desirable crispy, melty cheese topping, consider sprinkling a bit more shredded cheese on top before reheating.
OTHER DELICIOUS CHICKEN RECIPES TO EXPLORE
If you’re a fan of versatile chicken dishes, here are more recipes to inspire your culinary adventures:
- Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast
- Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
- Spicy Teriyaki Chicken with Broccoli
- Creamy Chicken Broccoli Recipe
- Baked Tuscan Chicken
We sincerely hope you cherish every recipe we share, especially this delightful Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole. We encourage you to try it, savor every bite, and share your experience with friends and family. This homemade comfort food is designed to bring joy and ease to your kitchen!
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Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb. chicken tenders, cubed into 1 inch pieces
- ½ tsp. black pepper
- ½ tsp. salt
- ½ tsp. onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp. olive oil
Casserole Ingredients
- 2 tbsps. butter
- 1 tbsp. olive oil
- ¼ cup AP flour
- 1 tsp. black pepper, or less per preference
- ½ tsp. salt, or more to taste
- 1 tsp. onion powder
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- 4 oz. cream cheese
- 2 cups cooked long grain rice, I used Jasmine rice
- 2½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded and divided
- 3 cups broccoli florets, partially steamed (see notes)
- 3 cups chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
- Cut the chicken tenders into 1 inch bite sizes. Coat with the spices (salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder).
- In a non-stick skillet, heat 1 tbsp. of olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown on the outside, flipping occasionally. This should take about 6-8 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp. of butter along with 1 tbsp. of olive oil. Then add in the flour and casserole spices (black pepper, salt, onion powder, garlic powder) and mix well to obtain a smooth pasty mixture (roux).
- Gradually add in the chicken broth while whisking continuously to avoid any lumps. Mix until the sauce is nice and smooth. Then add in the cream cheese. Once the cream cheese dissolves, simmer for about two minutes, whisking slowly until the sauce thickens up.
- Add in 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and mix. The cheese does not have to fully melt at this stage.
- Add in the steamed broccoli (see notes for method), cooked chicken, and cooked rice. Mix everything together very well.
- If your skillet is oven safe, you can bake the dish directly in it. Top with the remainder of the cheddar cheese.
- If transferring to a baking dish, do so now. Transfer to a 9 x 13 baking dish. Top with the remainder of the cheddar cheese.
- Bake in a pre-heated 375 degree F oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes and garnish with some fresh parsley.
Notes
If you like to add crumbs on top, add 1 tbsp. of melted butter to 1 cup of Panko crumbs and sprinkle on top of the cheese before baking.
If you’d like this dish without chicken, you can add more broccoli instead or other vegetables.
Taste test before you add more salt. The cheese adds salt to the food.
Can use rotisserie chicken breast instead, but leave adding the salt to the very end before transferring to the baking dish, as rotisserie chicken is usually salty.
Can use more cheese or less cheese, based on your preference.
Nutrition
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