If you’re looking for a warm, satisfying meal that’s both easy to make and loved by all ages, this Broccoli, Rice, Chicken, and Cheese Casserole is just what you need. It’s a deliciously comforting dish that brings together wholesome ingredients in the most flavorful way possible. Perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, potlucks, or make-ahead meals, this casserole is a staple that you’ll find yourself coming back to time and time again.
This hearty recipe combines tender, seasoned chicken breast pieces, fluffy long-grain rice, fresh or frozen broccoli florets, and a smooth, creamy cheese sauce that binds everything together in cheesy, melty goodness. The result is a golden-baked casserole that delivers on both taste and texture—creamy in the center, slightly crispy on top, and packed with nutrition and flavor in every bite.
Not only is it a complete meal all in one dish, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can prepare it ahead of time and bake it later, customize it with your favorite vegetables or types of cheese, and even use rotisserie chicken to cut down on prep time. Plus, it makes fantastic leftovers that taste just as good reheated the next day, making it perfect for meal planning or feeding a crowd.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this casserole recipe is a foolproof way to deliver a comforting and nutritious dinner with minimal fuss. Serve it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for a well-rounded meal everyone at the table will love.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shredded chicken | 1 lb |
| Instant rice | 2 cups |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Cream of onion soup | 1 can |
| Cream of chicken soup | 1 can |
| Unsalted butter | ¼ cup |
| Velveeta cheese food | 8 oz |
| Heavy whipping cream | ½ cup |
| Milk | ¼ cup |
| Frozen broccoli | 1 bag |
| Panko bread crumbs | Optional |
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Broccoli: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the frozen broccoli according to the microwave directions on the package until tender-crisp. Drain any excess water thoroughly.
- Cook Instant Rice: Place the 2 cups of chicken broth in a saucepan on the stove over high heat and bring it to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the instant rice to the broth, stir once, then immediately remove the saucepan from the heat. Cover the saucepan tightly with a lid and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the rice to absorb the liquid.
- Melt Cheese into Rice: After the rice has rested, stir the unsalted butter and Velveeta cheese food into the hot cooked rice in the saucepan until the butter and cheese are fully melted and combined, creating a creamy rice mixture.
- Combine Casserole Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken and the cooked broccoli. Add the cheesy rice mixture to this bowl.
- Add Soups and Cream: Place the two cans of cream of onion soup and cream of chicken soup, the milk, and the heavy whipping cream into the mixing bowl with the other ingredients. Stir everything together completely until all components are well combined and coated in the creamy sauce.
- Assemble and Bake: Layer the entire mixture evenly into a well-greased 9×13 inch baking dish. If desired, sprinkle the top with Panko bread crumbs for an extra crunchy topping.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the topping (if used) is golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this comforting and cheesy casserole!