Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

Warm, comforting, and packed with creamy cheesy goodness, this Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is the ultimate weeknight dinner hero. With tender chicken, melty cheese, and flavorful rice all baked into one satisfying dish, it’s a meal the whole family will ask for again and again. Plus, it’s made with pantry staples and comes together with minimal prep—what more could you ask for?

This dish brings classic flavors together in the best way and is reminiscent of our Cheesy Tuna Noodle Bake—simple, nostalgic, and incredibly delicious. If you’re craving a cozy meal with a hearty twist, this casserole is your go-to comfort food.

What is Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole?

This casserole is a creamy, cheesy, baked wonder that combines three beloved comfort ingredients: chicken, broccoli, and cheese—all held together with tender rice and savory soups. It’s called a casserole, but we call it magic in a dish!

Why the name? It says it all! There’s no need for frills when you’ve got real, hearty flavors doing all the work. And yes, as they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this casserole hits all the right notes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this casserole is bound to become a favorite:

• Comfort in every bite: Creamy soups, gooey cheese, and tender chicken make it irresistible.
• Pantry-friendly and budget-wise: Uses canned chicken, frozen broccoli, and instant rice for a quick and affordable meal.
• One-dish dinner: Everything goes into one pan, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy.

Much like our Chicken and Stuffing Bake, this casserole is perfect for potlucks, meal preps, or lazy nights when you just need something warm and satisfying.

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

Quick Overview

This dish is as easy as mix, bake, and serve. With a cook time of just 30 minutes and a short prep window, it’s the ideal solution for busy evenings.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups water
• 2 cups uncooked instant rice
• 20 oz (or 2 1/2 cups) canned chunk chicken, drained
• 1 can (1 1/4 cup) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can (1 1/4 cup) cream of chicken soup
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 cup milk
• 1 package (or 2 cups) frozen chopped broccoli, thawed and drained
• 1 small white onion, chopped
• 1 lb processed Velveeta cheese, cubed

Step-by-Step:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, bring water to a boil.
3. Add rinsed rice and cook for about 5 minutes, or until water is absorbed.
4. Remove from heat and fluff the rice with a fork.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, canned chicken, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, milk, butter, broccoli, onion, and Velveeta cheese.
6. Stir until well mixed and fully incorporated.
7. Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking or Pyrex dish, leaving about an inch at the top to prevent overflow.
8. Bake for 30 minutes, or until cheese is fully melted and the casserole is bubbling.
9. If needed, bake a few extra minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
10. Let cool slightly before serving.

What to Serve This Casserole With:

Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans for a balanced meal. It also goes great with garlic bread, dinner rolls, or a light fruit salad. For drinks, consider iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing contrast.

Top Tips for Perfecting the Casserole

• Use pre-cooked chicken if you prefer over canned—leftover rotisserie works great!
• Thaw and drain broccoli thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
• Chop the onion finely for even cooking and better flavor.
• For extra crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking.
• Add spices like garlic powder or paprika to jazz up the flavor.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can also freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I substitute fresh broccoli? Absolutely. Steam it slightly before adding to the mix to ensure it cooks through.

Is there a low-fat version? Try using reduced-fat soups, skim milk, and part-skim cheese. The taste may vary slightly, but it’ll still be delicious.

Conclusion

Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is a warm, filling dish that hits all the comfort food cravings with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing meals for the week, this one-dish wonder delivers flavor, ease, and plenty of cheesy joy. Go ahead—dig in and savor every creamy, cheesy, comforting bite!