Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

If there’s one dish that never fails to make my family gather around the table a bit faster, it’s Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole. A true classic, this cozy all-in-one meal is brimming with juicy chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and a dreamy, cheesy sauce—finished with an irresistible buttery cracker topping. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight staple, a make-ahead meal for busy days, or just something seriously comforting, Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole always delivers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is built around simple, loveable ingredients you probably already have. Each one plays a key role, from creating the creamy sauce to adding savory depth and irresistible texture.

• Butter: Adds rich flavor and helps brown the chicken beautifully.
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts (or rotisserie chicken): Provides juicy protein and cuts down on prep time if you use rotisserie.
• Italian Seasoning: Brings a herby warmth that complements the casserole’s creamy base.
• Salt/Pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer just right.
• Chicken broth: Infuses the rice with savory flavor and keeps everything moist.
• Olive oil: A touch keeps the rice from sticking and adds subtle flavor.
• White long grain rice: Becomes perfectly tender and soaks up all the goodness.
• Fresh broccoli florets: Add vibrant color and crunch—you’ll love how they peek through each bite.
• Condensed cream of chicken soup: The secret behind the casserole’s ultra-creamy sauce.
• Milk: Lightens up the sauce and makes it velvety-smooth.
• Sour cream: Adds a gentle tang and extra creaminess.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey pockets—use half inside and half on top for great contrast.
• Dried thyme: A hint adds a deeper, savory note.
• Garlic powder: Gives the casserole that little something extra in the background.
• Ritz crackers: Crushed and sprinkled on for the ultimate crunchy topping.
• Melted butter (for topping): Makes the cracker topping golden and never greasy.

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by setting your oven to 350° F so it’s ready by the time your casserole goes in. Trust me—there’s nothing worse than an oven that’s still cold when your dish is ready to bake.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season generously with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to make sure every bite of Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is well-flavored from the very start. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, just dice it up and let it shine in the next step.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and sauté until golden on all sides—about 5 minutes. This adds lots of flavor! If you’re using cooked rotisserie chicken, you can skip this step and save some time.

Step 4: Make the Rice Base

Poured the chicken broth, add the olive oil, and stir in the rice. Bring it to a boil, then drop the heat to a simmer and cover tightly. Let it cook for 6 minutes to give the rice a head start on absorbing all that flavor.

Step 5: Steam the Broccoli with the Rice

Add fresh broccoli florets right on top of the partially cooked rice, then cover again. Let it all simmer for another 9 minutes, until the rice is fluffy and the broccoli just-tender. If the rice isn’t quite there, cover and let it steam for another 5 minutes—it’ll get perfect.

Step 6: Rest and Release

Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit with the lid on for 10 minutes. Don’t be tempted to stir! This step lets any rice at the bottom finish cooking and makes the entire casserole base extra fluffy and light.

Step 7: Mix in the Good Stuff

Now for the fun part—add your cooked chicken (or rotisserie chicken), cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, thyme, garlic powder, and half of the cheddar cheese into the pot with the rice and broccoli. Stir gently to combine everything into a luscious, fragrant mixture.

Step 8: Assemble the Casserole

Lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish, then scoop in the chicken-broccoli-rice mixture. Spread it out evenly and shower the top with the remaining cheddar cheese. You’re already close to comfort food heaven.

Step 9: Bake Covered

Cover the casserole with foil and bake it for 15 minutes. This step helps everything melt together and get beautifully creamy.

Step 10: Add the Crunchy Topping

While the casserole bakes, melt the butter and crush the Ritz crackers in a zip-top bag. Toss them together for your buttery, golden topping.

Step 11: Bake Again for Crisp Topping

Remove the foil and sprinkle the cracker mixture all over the casserole. Bake uncovered for another 10 minutes, until the topping is crispy and golden.

Step 12: Let It Rest, Then Serve

Give your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole a 5-minute rest before slicing in. This makes it easier to serve—and gives everyone time to grab a fork!

How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Garnishes

For a fresh finish, sprinkle a little chopped parsley or sliced green onions over the top. If you’re a cheese lover, a light dusting of parmesan or a drizzle of hot sauce can take each serving to the next level.

Side Dishes

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is hearty all on its own, but it shines alongside a crisp green salad or some roasted veggies. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are also fantastic for soaking up every last bit of creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

You can spoon the casserole into individual ramekins for a dinner-party twist, or dress it up with a sprinkling of extra herbs for a pop of color. For casual nights, tuck it straight from the baking dish onto plates—there’s something extra comforting about that family-style vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole will keep in the fridge, tightly covered, for up to 4 days. Simply scoop into airtight containers so it stays moist and fresh.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully! Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Store for up to 3 months, and be sure to label for easy meal planning.

Reheating

Reheat single servings in the microwave, or warm larger portions (covered) in a 350°F oven until heated through. If it looks dry, stir in a splash of milk before reheating to restore its creamy perfection.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Absolutely! Just remember that brown rice needs more liquid and a longer cooking time, so keep an eye on the package directions and adjust accordingly for best results in your Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole.

Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap in cooked chickpeas or extra broccoli for the chicken, and use vegetable broth and a vegetarian-friendly condensed soup. The flavor and comfort are still unbeatable.

Can I make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole ahead of time?

You sure can! Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate overnight. When ready, let it sit at room temperature while you preheat the oven, then proceed with baking and adding the topping.

What can I use instead of Ritz crackers for the topping?

Panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or even potato chips can stand in for the cracker topping, each adding their own tasty twist and crunch.

How do I know when the casserole is done baking?

The topping should be golden and crispy, and the cheese melted and bubbling around the edges. A few minutes of rest afterward ensures everything sets up nicely for serving.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to add a true comfort classic to your rotation, give Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole a go. Every bite is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, making it perfect for family dinners or sharing with friends. I promise, it’s the kind of dish you’ll come back to again and again!

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