When life calls for comfort food, few dishes satisfy quite like a hearty casserole. Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is a timeless classic that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. This dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and wholesome broccoli, all tied together with creamy soups and melted cheese.

It’s quick to assemble, easy to customize, and delivers a warm, nostalgic hug in every bite. Let’s dive into this crowd-pleaser and learn how to make it step by step.

Jump to Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Casserole

Quick and Easy: A one-dish meal that comes together in no time.
Family-Friendly: Packed with cheesy goodness that even picky eaters will love.
Make-Ahead Option: Perfect for meal prep or freezing for later.
Customizable: Swap ingredients to fit your preferences or pantry staples.

Ingredients: A Pantry Staple Dream

This recipe is built on simple, affordable ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.

The Essentials:

2 cups water: For cooking the rice.
2 cups uncooked rice: Long-grain or basmati works best.
1 can (10 oz) cream of chicken soup: Adds creaminess and depth.
1 can (10 oz) cream of mushroom soup: For a rich, earthy flavor.
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Use rotisserie chicken or leftovers for convenience.
¼ cup butter: Adds richness to the casserole.
1 cup milk: Helps bind the ingredients and keep everything moist.
1 small white onion, diced: Adds sweetness and texture.
16 ounces broccoli pieces: Fresh or frozen broccoli both work beautifully.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: The star ingredient for creamy, gooey goodness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create a casserole that’s equal parts comforting and delicious.

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the rice according to the package instructions, using 2 cups of water. Once cooked, fluff it with a fork and set aside.
If you’re using fresh broccoli, chop it into small pieces and blanch it in boiling water for 2 minutes, then drain. For frozen broccoli, allow it to thaw before using.
Dice the onion and shred your chicken if it’s not prepped already.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

Grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and start layering the goodness:

Spread the cooked rice evenly across the bottom of the pan.
Add the shredded chicken on top of the rice.
Pour in the cream of chicken soup and cream of mushroom soup.
Add the butter, milk, broccoli, and diced onion.
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture.
Stir everything together gently until well combined.

Tip: Stir directly in the baking pan to save on dishes!

Step 3: Bake the Casserole

Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. During this time, the flavors will meld together, and the casserole will start to bubble around the edges.

Step 4: Add the Cheesy Topping

In the final 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return the dish to the oven just long enough for the cheese to melt into a gooey, golden topping.

Step 5: Rest, Serve, and Enjoy

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes to cool slightly and set. This brief resting period also makes it easier to serve.

Pair your casserole with a fresh dinner salad or warm, buttery breadsticks for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

Use Leftover Chicken: Rotisserie chicken or leftovers from a roast work perfectly.
Frozen vs. Fresh Broccoli: Both are great options—use whatever you have on hand. If you prefer a crunchier texture, fresh broccoli is ideal.
Shred Your Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese can be convenient but often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting as smoothly as freshly shredded cheese.
Customize the Soups: Feel free to experiment with other creamy soups like cream of celery or cheddar cheese soup for a flavor twist.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Instructions

This casserole is ideal for busy schedules because it can be prepped ahead or frozen for later use.

To Make Ahead:

Assemble the casserole as instructed but hold off on baking. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge, let it come to room temperature, and bake as directed.

To Freeze:

Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake according to the instructions.

Variations to Try

This recipe is versatile, so don’t be afraid to get creative!

Add a Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or French fried onions over the top for added texture.
Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce for a kick of heat.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add more vegetables, like mushrooms or zucchini. Substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of celery or cream of potato.
Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor profile.

Nutritional Information

Serving Size	1 portion (based on 8 servings)
Calories	~350 kcal
Protein	~20g
Carbs	~35g
Fat	~15g

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of creamy soups, tender chicken, and melted cheese ensures every bite is comforting and flavorful. Adding broccoli not only boosts the nutrition but also balances the richness of the dish. Meanwhile, the rice acts as a hearty base that ties everything together, making this casserole a complete meal.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting a potluck, or simply craving a nostalgic meal, this Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole fits the bill. It’s the kind of dish that reminds you of home, delivering warmth and satisfaction in every bite.

Make it once, and it’s sure to earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. So grab your baking dish, gather your ingredients, and prepare for the ultimate comfort food experience.