Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is the ultimate comfort food—warm, creamy, and packed with flavor. It’s incredibly easy to assemble, making it perfect for hectic schedules. The blend of cheddar and mozzarella provides a delightful cheesy balance, while an optional crunchy cracker topping adds a satisfying crispness. It’s also a fantastic way to utilize leftover chicken and rice.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
2 cups cooked white rice
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup milk
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon butter, melted
½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, rice, steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika until well combined.
Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
Add Topping: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs, then sprinkle over the casserole.
Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Cheese Options: Substitute mozzarella with Monterey Jack or Colby cheese.
Soup Alternative: Replace cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup.
Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms, carrots, or peas for extra nutrition.
Low-Carb Version: Replace the rice with riced cauliflower to reduce carbohydrates.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
Freezing: Wrap the casserole tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

How can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Assemble the casserole as directed, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to ensure it’s heated through.

What can I use instead of Ritz crackers for the topping?

Breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or additional shredded cheese can be used as alternatives for the topping.

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of steamed?

Yes, chop fresh broccoli into small pieces and add them directly to the mixture. They will cook during the baking process, retaining a slight crunch.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. Ensure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but ensure the brown rice is fully cooked before incorporating it into the casserole, as it requires a longer cooking time than white rice.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Use low-fat cheeses, a reduced-sodium soup, and incorporate more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Replacing white rice with brown rice or quinoa can also boost the nutritional value.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes, omit the chicken and use a can of drained chickpeas or extra vegetables. Also, substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or another vegetarian-friendly soup.

What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken works well. You can also cook and shred boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs specifically for this casserole.

How do I prevent the casserole from becoming dry?

Ensure all ingredients are well-mixed and the casserole is covered during baking if it appears to be drying out. Adding a bit more milk or a dollop of sour cream can increase creaminess.

Can I add spices to enhance the flavor?

Absolutely! Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

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Author: Julia
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a creamy, comforting one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Made with tender chicken, fluffy rice, steamed broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce, this dish is family-friendly and incredibly easy to prepare.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, rice, steamed broccoli, cheddar and mozzarella cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir until well mixed.
Assemble the Casserole: Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
Prepare Topping: Mix melted butter with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs in a small bowl. Sprinkle over the casserole.
Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Cool & Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Cheese Alternatives: Substitute mozzarella with Monterey Jack or Colby cheese.
Soup Variation: Use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup instead of cream of chicken.
Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, carrots, or peas for added nutrition.
Low-Carb Option: Swap rice with riced cauliflower.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American