The Ultimate Comfort Dinner You’ll Want on Repeat

When it comes to cozy, no-fuss comfort food, nothing beats a warm dish of Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli & Rice Casserole. 🥘🧀🥦 It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with everything you want in a one-pan dinner—tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, fresh broccoli, and a blanket of melted cheese that ties it all together. Every bite feels like a hug in a bowl.

I’ve been making this dish for years, especially on busy weeknights when I need something easy but filling. It’s one of those recipes that brings everyone to the table with smiles (and seconds!). The best part? It’s all baked in one dish, which means minimal cleanup—a total win for anyone juggling a busy schedule.

Nutritional Benefits

This casserole isn’t just pure comfort—it’s also packed with nutrients that make it a wholesome meal. Chicken gives you lean protein for muscle strength and sustained energy. Broccoli adds fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants that support immunity. And rice provides those comforting carbs your body loves, helping you feel satisfied and balanced. With a bit of cheese for calcium and flavor, you’ve got a meal that hits every nutritional note while still feeling indulgent.

Adaptable Variations

• Healthy Swap: Use brown rice or quinoa for extra fiber and a nuttier flavor.
• Veggie Boost: Add in spinach, peas, or diced carrots for even more color and nutrients.
• Extra Creamy: Stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese or sour cream before baking.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace rice with cauliflower rice—same comfort, fewer carbs!
• Spicy Twist: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or add a touch of hot sauce to the sauce mix for a little kick.

Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli & Rice Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
• 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
• 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup milk (optional, for thinning the sauce)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for greasing the dish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with olive oil or butter.
2. Steam or lightly blanch your broccoli florets for 3–4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, shredded chicken, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, half the cheese, and seasonings. Stir well to mix everything together.
4. If the mixture feels too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up a bit.
5. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining cheese.
6. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
7. Let it cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. The sauce thickens as it rests, making it even creamier!

Helpful Tips

• Use pre-cooked ingredients: Leftover rotisserie chicken and rice make this recipe incredibly quick.
• Fresh or frozen broccoli? Either works! Just make sure to thaw frozen broccoli and drain it well before mixing.
• Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge—just add 5–10 extra minutes of baking time.
• Freezer-friendly: This casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months. Reheat covered at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use uncooked rice? Yes, but you’ll need extra liquid. Add 1 cup chicken broth, cover tightly with foil, and bake for about 45–50 minutes until rice is tender.
2. Can I substitute the soup? Absolutely! Use homemade white sauce (milk, butter, and flour) for a cleaner version without canned soup.
3. How do I make it more flavorful? Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard, a sprinkle of paprika, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a flavor boost.
4. Can I make it vegetarian? Yes! Replace chicken with chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms and use cream of mushroom soup instead.

Let’s Stay Connected

If this Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli & Rice Casserole made your kitchen smell like heaven (and I know it did!), I’d love to see your creation. 🧀💛 Tag me on Pinterest or share your own twist—whether it’s extra cheesy, loaded with veggies, or topped with crispy breadcrumbs. Let’s spread the love for easy, family-style comfort food that warms both the heart and the belly!