Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe You’ll Love

Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food meal that brings together the creamy goodness of cheese, the hearty texture of rice, tender bites of chicken, and the healthy crunch of broccoli.

This recipe is easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers during the week. With just 45 minutes from start to finish, this dish is creamy, cheesy, and just the right amount of indulgent—all while being incredibly simple to put together.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or prepping for a potluck, this easy chicken and broccoli casserole is versatile, family-friendly, and always a hit. Even picky eaters will come back for seconds!

My Story Behind This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

The first time I made this cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole, I was trying to bring a little ease to a hectic weekday dinner routine. You know those nights when there’s barely time to think, let alone cook? This recipe became my solution.

I grew up with casseroles gracing our family dinner table—simple ingredients layered into creamy, cheesy perfection. This homemade broccoli rice chicken casserole is my take on those traditions with an extra emphasis on bold flavors and a velvety texture.

I use a combination of processed cheese and condensed soups to create an ultra-creamy base, while the broccoli adds freshness and balance.

With chunks of tender chicken and fluffy rice, every bite is pure comfort. I can guarantee this quick chicken casserole with rice will become a repeat request in your kitchen!

Ingredients for Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

• 2 cups water
• 2 cups uncooked instant rice
• 2 (10-ounce) cans chunk chicken, drained
• 1 (16-ounce) package frozen chopped broccoli
• 1 pound processed cheese food, cubed
• 1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup butter, cubed
• 1 small white onion, chopped

How to Make Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your dish bakes evenly as soon as it goes in the oven.
2. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Stir in the instant rice, cover with a lid, remove from heat, and let it stand for 5 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
3. In a large 9×13-inch baking dish, mix together the prepared rice, drained chicken, frozen chopped broccoli, cubed processed cheese, condensed cream of mushroom soup, condensed cream of chicken soup, milk, cubed butter, and chopped onion. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
4. Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. Halfway through cooking, give the casserole a stir to help the cheese melt smoothly and blend everything together.
5. Once the top is bubbly and the cheese is fully melted, remove the casserole from the oven. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow all the flavors to come together.

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

• Don’t skip stirring halfway: Stirring ensures the cheese melts evenly and prevents any dry spots in your casserole.
• Use fresh broccoli: If you prefer, you can substitute frozen broccoli with fresh. Chop it into small florets and lightly steam it before mixing it into the dish.
• Try rotisserie chicken: For an easy shortcut, use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of canned chicken. The flavor is incredible!
• Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 1 day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole FAQs

Can I substitute fresh chicken for canned chicken?

Yes! Freshly cooked and shredded chicken, such as rotisserie or sautéed chicken, works beautifully in this recipe. It enhances the flavor and texture.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free condensed soups and ensure your instant rice is gluten-free. Swap the processed cheese for a gluten-free alternative if needed.

Is it possible to freeze this casserole?

Absolutely! Prepare and bake it, then let it cool completely. Store portions in airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What makes this the best chicken broccoli casserole recipe?

This recipe’s creamy texture, simple prep, balanced flavor, and family-friendly appeal make it stand out. It’s proven to please even the pickiest eaters!

Time to Try This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole delivers on creamy, cheesy comfort with minimal effort. With easy-to-find ingredients and only 45 minutes of total time, it’s a recipe you can count on for weeknights, potlucks, or meal prepping. Whether you’re indulging in its gooey goodness for dinner tonight or planning to freeze it for a later day, one thing’s for sure—you’ll love every bite!

Leave a comment below and let me know how you made it your own. Did you add more veggies, swap the protein, or sprinkle crunchy breadcrumbs on top? I can’t wait to hear your results!