Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food

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This creamy Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Easy to make, freezer-friendly, and perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks!

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Introduction

If there’s one dish that can warm hearts and fill bellies all at once, it’s a homemade Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole. It’s the perfect balance of tender chicken, wholesome broccoli, fluffy rice, and creamy cheese sauce all baked into one comforting dish. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner, a family-friendly meal, or something that freezes well for busy nights, this casserole checks all the boxes.

In this article, we’ll cover:

• Why this casserole is a must-try
• Ingredients and substitutions
• Step-by-step instructions
• Storage and reheating tips
• Variations to suit your taste
• Nutritional benefits of this dish

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Why You’ll Love This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

1. Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike can’t resist the cheesy goodness.
2. Make-Ahead & Freezer-Friendly – Perfect for meal prepping or stocking up for busy nights.
3. Customizable – Swap proteins, change the cheese, or add more veggies.
4. One Dish Meal – You’ve got your protein, carbs, and veggies all in one.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s the basic ingredient list for a classic Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed or blanched
• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or wild rice)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or homemade cream sauce)
• 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup milk (for a creamier consistency)
• Optional topping: crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter

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Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

• Chicken – Use turkey for a post-holiday twist or cooked ground chicken for a different texture.
• Broccoli – Fresh or frozen both work. If using frozen, thaw and drain well.
• Rice – Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and more fiber. Wild rice adds texture.
• Cheese – Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby Jack also melt beautifully.
• Soup – You can replace canned cream soup with a homemade béchamel for a fresher taste.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Cook the Ingredients

• Cook your rice according to package directions.
• Steam or blanch your broccoli until just tender (about 3-4 minutes for fresh, 5 minutes for frozen).
• Shred or cube your cooked chicken.

Step 3: Make the Casserole Mixture
In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, broccoli, rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and 1 1/2 cups of the cheese. Mix until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish.

Step 5: Add Toppings
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheese evenly over the top. If desired, add a breadcrumb or Ritz cracker topping for extra crunch.

Step 6: Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through. If topping is used, bake until golden brown.

Step 7: Serve
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

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Tips for the Best Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

• Don’t overcook the broccoli before baking—it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother melt. Pre-shredded cheese can have anti-caking agents that affect creaminess.
• Make it extra creamy by adding 4 ounces of softened cream cheese to the mixture.

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Make-Ahead, Storage, and Freezing

• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
• Refrigerator Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing Instructions: Assemble the casserole without baking, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Reheating: Bake at 350°F covered with foil until warmed through, or microwave single servings.

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Variations You’ll Love

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
• Low-Carb: Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
• Extra Veggie: Add peas, carrots, or mushrooms for more color and nutrition.
• Different Protein: Use leftover ham, ground turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.

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Serving Suggestions

This casserole is a hearty one-dish meal, but you can pair it with:

• A crisp green salad
• Garlic bread or dinner rolls
• Fresh fruit salad for a refreshing side

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Nutritional Benefits

While this is a comfort food dish, it has nutritional perks:

• Protein from chicken helps with muscle repair and satiety.
• Broccoli is rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Rice provides energy, especially if using whole grain varieties.
• Cheese offers calcium for bone health.

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Final Thoughts

The Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is a timeless recipe that brings together everything you love in comfort food—creamy texture, cheesy flavor, wholesome veggies, and hearty chicken. With its flexibility, freezer-friendliness, and crowd-pleasing appeal, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself making again and again.

Whether you’re cooking for family dinner, bringing something to a potluck, or prepping meals for the week, this casserole will not disappoint.

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