Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole
Creamy, Cheesy, and Hug-In-A-Pan Delicious!
Introduction
This Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole is everything a cozy casserole should be — hearty, creamy, satisfying, and loaded with flavor. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner or potluck superstar. This version is baked to bubbly perfection with tender chunks of chicken, fluffy rice, crisp-tender broccoli, and a luscious cheese sauce that ties it all together.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice)
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets (or 1.5 cups frozen, thawed)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (optional for extra cheesiness)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup (or homemade)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 tsp paprika or smoked paprika for a flavor boost
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sauté the onions and garlic in butter or olive oil until soft and translucent.
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken, cooked rice, broccoli, sautéed onion/garlic, cheddar, mozzarella (if using), cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and spices.
- Mix everything well until creamy and combined.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the baking dish.
- Top with extra cheese, spreading it over the top like a beautiful cheesy blanket.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until hot and bubbly and cheese is golden.
- Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Method Summary
| Step | Method |
|---|---|
| 1 | Pre-cook chicken and rice |
| 2 | Sauté onion and garlic |
| 3 | Mix all ingredients |
| 4 | Layer and top with cheese |
| 5 | Bake until golden |
| 6 | Rest and serve |
History of the Dish
This casserole emerged from mid-20th century American kitchens, where convenience met comfort. With post-war innovations like canned soups and processed cheese, homemakers developed casseroles as budget-friendly, one-pan solutions for feeding the family. The combo of chicken, rice, and broccoli became a staple in the 1970s and ’80s, often seen in community cookbooks and potluck tables. Today, it remains a nostalgic and dependable favorite.
Health Benefits
- Protein Power: Chicken gives you lean protein for muscle repair and satiety.
- Broccoli Benefits: Packed with fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants.
- Calcium Boost: Thanks to the cheese and milk.
- Whole Grains Option: Substitute brown rice for extra fiber and minerals.
Nutritional Information (per serving – based on 8 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~370 kcal |
| Protein | 22g |
| Carbs | 28g |
| Fat | 19g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Calcium | 15% DV |
| Vitamin C | 45% DV |
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients used.
For the Lovers of Comfort Food…
This one’s for:
- Busy parents who want a wholesome dinner without fuss.
- Meal preppers looking for freezer-friendly options.
- Cheese lovers who believe every good meal deserves a melty topping.
- Broccoli believers (even the skeptics fall for it in this creamy dish).
- Southern food fans, because it feels like a warm hug from Grandma.
Formation Tips
- Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking.
- Freeze for later: Assemble, wrap well, and freeze. Thaw in fridge overnight and bake as directed.
- Add crunch: Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs on top before baking.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of cayenne or hot sauce for a kick.
Conclusion
This Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole is pure comfort in a dish — creamy, cheesy, warm, and wonderfully satisfying. It’s nostalgic, family-friendly, and easy to make with pantry staples. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or freezing it for later, it’s a dish that hits all the right notes.
Final Words for the Lovers
To all the casserole lovers out there — this one’s got your name written in melted cheddar across the top. Each bite is a creamy embrace of flavor and familiarity. Serve it up and watch faces light up around your table. Because sometimes, love tastes like cheesy chicken and broccoli.