If you’re craving a comforting, all-in-one meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and crisp broccoli florets, it’s a harmonious blend that hits all the right notes — satisfying your taste buds and your soul. Whether for a family dinner or meal prep for the week, this casserole brings effortless joy and hearty flavor with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of creaminess, savoriness, and texture. Simple staples come together to build layers of flavor and that irresistibly comforting feel we all love in casseroles.
- Long grain rice (12 oz): The fluffy base that soaks up all the delicious flavors without getting mushy.
- Butter (1/4 cup, divided): Adds richness and helps brown the chicken and veggies beautifully.
- Chicken breast (1 pound, diced): Lean protein that stays tender and juicy in the casserole.
- Small onion (chopped): Provides a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth when sautéed.
- Mushrooms (1/2 pound, sliced): Earthy flavor and meaty texture that complements the chicken perfectly.
- Dried garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): A punch of garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Celery salt (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a mild herbal note that brightens the overall taste.
- Dried thyme (1/4 teaspoon): Infuses an earthy, slightly minty flavor that rounds out the aromatics.
- Flour (4 tablespoons): Essential for thickening the sauce to that luscious, creamy consistency.
- Chicken broth (1 1/2 cups, plus extra as needed): Builds the savory base for the sauce and keeps everything moist.
- Evaporated milk (1 cup): Gives the sauce a silky texture with a subtle sweetness.
- Broccoli (1 head, cut into florets): Adds vibrant color, freshness, and a crunchy contrast.
- Cream cheese (8 oz): Brings a velvety creaminess that melds all the flavors together seamlessly.
- Shredded cheese (2 cups): Use your favorite blend for that ooey-gooey topping and extra flavor kick.
How to Make Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to get it nice and hot, so your casserole bakes evenly. Lightly grease a deep 9×13 inch casserole dish — this will prevent sticking and make cleanup much easier.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken and Aromatics
Melt half of your butter (2 tablespoons) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook it until it’s just lightly browned on all sides — this locks in the juices for tender bites. Then stir in chopped onions and sliced mushrooms, sautéing until they’re softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Sprinkle in garlic powder, celery salt, dried thyme, and the remaining butter to caramelize the flavors and infuse the mixture with savory layers.
Step 3: Craft the Creamy Sauce
Sprinkle flour into the skillet, stirring constantly so you don’t see any dry pockets — this is your secret to a smooth, thick sauce. Gradually pour in chicken broth and evaporated milk while stirring, allowing it to thicken and become velvety without lumps.
Step 4: Add Broccoli and Cheese to the Sauce
Fold in the broccoli florets and let everything simmer gently for 5 minutes. If the sauce looks too thick or dry, splash in up to half a cup more chicken broth to keep it juicy and tender. Remove from heat, then stir in cream cheese, one cup of shredded cheese, and the cooked rice. This mix brings together creaminess, melty cheese, and perfectly tender rice.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer this gorgeous rice mixture into your prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheese evenly on top — a gooey golden blanket that will bubble and brown beautifully in the oven.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered at 375 degrees for 20 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. This is the sign your casserole is bursting with creamy, comforting goodness, ready to be served.
How to Serve Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate your Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole Recipe from cozy to restaurant-worthy. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness that cuts through the richness. Add a few red pepper flakes if you enjoy a tiny touch of heat. A light drizzle of olive oil right before serving also adds a subtle fruity note.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with crisp, refreshing sides. Consider a simple mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted root vegetables for earthy contrast. Lightly toasted garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce — a real crowd-pleaser.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, serve your casserole in individual ramekins or elegant mini cast iron skillets for a charming presentation. You can also turn leftovers into hearty stuffed bell peppers by scooping the casserole inside halved peppers and baking until warmed through. Another fun idea is layering this dish with extra cheese and topping with breadcrumbs for crunchy baked squares that make gorgeous handheld portions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole Recipe in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 to 4 days, making it ideal for busy weeknight dinners or lunches to-go. The flavors actually deepen over time, so leftovers taste even better!
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap the entire casserole dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It’s best consumed within 2 to 3 months for optimal flavor. Thaw overnight in your refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To bring your leftovers back to life, warm individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway to heat evenly. For larger amounts, reheat covered in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until bubbly and warmed through, usually about 20 minutes. If it looks dry, add a splash of chicken broth to restore creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of long grain white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and more chewiness, but make sure to cook it fully before combining, as it takes longer to cook than white rice. Adjust liquids accordingly if you want a softer casserole texture.
Is it okay to substitute cream cheese with sour cream?
Sour cream can be a substitute, but it will make the casserole less thick and slightly tangier. If you choose sour cream, consider reducing other acidic ingredients and stirring it in gently at the end.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works great and saves prep time. Just thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to avoid a watery casserole. You may want to reduce the additional broth slightly.
What cheeses work best in this casserole?
Cheddar, American, and mozzarella are classic choices for meltiness and flavor. You can also mix in Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even Gruyère for a more sophisticated twist. Just use whatever cheese melts well and you enjoy!
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine, replace cream cheese and shredded cheese with plant-based alternatives, and use a non-dairy milk like oat or almond milk. The casserole will have a different but still delightful flavor and texture!
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to enjoy a meal that’s comforting, satisfying, and loaded with flavor, this Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole Recipe is a winner every time. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that invites warm memories and happy bellies. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen — and you’ll be looking forward to making it over and over again.
Print
Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Casserole combines tender chicken breast, fresh broccoli, and creamy cheeses baked to bubbly perfection. Featuring a rich homemade sauce with evaporated milk and chicken broth, this dish is a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Rice
- 1 (12-oz) package long grain rice (cooked according to package directions)
Chicken and Vegetables
- 1/4 cup butter (divided)
- 1 pound chicken breast (diced)
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 1/2 pound mushrooms (sliced)
- 1 head broccoli (in florets)
Seasonings and Sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon celery salt
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth (or more as needed)
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese
Cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheese (American, cheddar, mozzarella… whatever you like)
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a deep 9×13 inch casserole dish to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick during baking.
- Sauté chicken and aromatics: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until lightly browned on all sides. Stir in the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, mix in garlic powder, celery salt, dried thyme, and the remaining butter, allowing the flavors to blend.
- Make sauce: Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously, ensuring no dry flour streaks remain. Gradually pour in 1.5 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup evaporated milk, stirring well until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken.
- Add broccoli and cheeses: Stir in the broccoli florets and simmer the mixture for 5 minutes, adding up to 1/2 cup extra broth if the sauce appears too dry. Remove the skillet from heat and incorporate the cream cheese, 1 cup of shredded cheese, and the cooked rice, mixing everything thoroughly.
- Assemble: Transfer the rice mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese on top has melted and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
Notes
- Feel free to use your favorite combination of shredded cheeses for a customized flavor.
- If the sauce becomes too thick while cooking, add extra chicken broth a little at a time to achieve desired consistency.
- For a lower-fat version, substitute butter with olive oil and use reduced-fat cheeses.
- The casserole can be assembled the night before and baked fresh when ready.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
