Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Hey y'all! Looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal that's perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or even a make-ahead freezer dinner? This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a cheesy, creamy classic packed with flavorful Chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and fluffy rice—all baked to golden perfection. It's comfort food that never goes out of style, and it's so simple to toss together. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Ready in under an hour with just a handful of simple ingredients.
• Kid-friendly, cheesy, and packed with protein and veggies.
• Perfect for meal prep or making ahead and freezing for busy days.
• Easily customizable for dietary needs or personal tastes.
• Makes an all-in-one meal, minimizing extra dishes or sides!

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 2 cups cooked jasmine or long-grain white rice
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• ½ cup milk
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers (optional, for topping)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for topping)

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with non-stick spray or butter. If your broccoli isn't pre-cooked, steam or blanch it for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.

Step 2: Make the Casserole Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the chicken, rice, broccoli, condensed soup, sour cream, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is fully combined and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the chicken broccoli rice mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish. Scatter the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese on top for a golden, bubbly layer.

Step 4: Add the Crunchy Topping

Mix together the crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter, then sprinkle evenly over the cheese.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the casserole, uncovered, for 25–30 minutes or until the cheese is melted, the topping is golden, and the edges are bubbling. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes For Perfect Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Use leftover rotisserie chicken or meal-prepped chicken for extra convenience—find safe chicken cooking tips from USDA.
• Don't overcook the broccoli before baking to avoid mushy texture — slight crispness makes a huge difference!
• Lighten things up by subbing low-fat cheese or using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and swap Ritz crackers for gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños for some heat.
• Veggie-Loaded: Add chopped bell pepper, carrots, or peas for even more color and nutrients.

Required Equipment for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• 9x13-inch casserole dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese grater (if shredding cheese fresh)
• Aluminum foil (optional, for storage or to prevent excess browning)

Storage Instructions: Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Let leftovers cool completely, then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For best results, reheat portions in the oven or microwave until heated through. You can also freeze tightly wrapped casserole portions for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat (covered) at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.

Serving and Pairings For Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Pair with a crisp green salad, buttery rolls, or fresh fruit for a balanced, satisfying meal. Try serving with a simple lemon vinaigrette salad or some roasted vegetables for extra freshness.

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Shred your own cheese—it melts better and adds more flavor than pre-shredded bagged cheese.
• For extra crunch, broil the casserole for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking—but keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
• Use day-old rice to prevent your casserole from turning mushy (discover more rice tips at Serious Eats).

FAQ: Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Absolutely! Just make sure it’s cooked and cooled first for the best texture.

Can I assemble this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole (without cracker topping), cover, and refrigerate overnight—add topping just before baking.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, be sure to thaw and drain well before adding to prevent extra moisture in the casserole.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes