Name: Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Water (For cooking rice); 2 cups Uncooked Rice; 1 can (10 ounces) Cream of Chicken Soup; 1 can (10 ounces) Cream of Mushroom Soup; 2 cups Cooked Chicken, shredded (Use rotisserie or leftover chicken); 1/4 cup Butter (For sautéing onions); 1 cup Milk; 1 small White Onion, chopped; 16 ounces Broccoli pieces (Fresh or frozen); 2 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded (Divided for mixing and topping)

Jump to Recipe

Looking for the ultimate comfort food to warm your soul and satisfy your hunger? This Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is the answer. Creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly savory, it’s a dish that brings together all the things we love about home-cooked meals in one bubbling pan. Did you know casseroles became popular in American kitchens during the 1950s, when families wanted quick and hearty meals that could feed a crowd? My family gathers around the table whenever this casserole comes out of the oven, and there’s never a crumb left. The best part is how easy it is to make, even on busy weeknights. If you’ve tried my Cheesy Tuna Noodle Bake, you’ll love the familiar classic flavors here too. Get ready to treat yourself—and your loved ones—to a cozy, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a new favorite!

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

Let’s play a little game—can a casserole pack all your dinner favorites into one hearty dish? With a name like Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole, there’s no mystery about what you’ll find inside! This dish is exactly what it claims: tender chicken, fluffy rice, flecks of steamed broccoli, all in a cheesy, creamy sauce. Why’s it called that? Sometimes, simplicity is the way to a man’s heart… and the whole family’s, too. I like to call it the “Everything But the Kitchen Sink” bake—filling, comforting, and no-nonsense. If you’re on the hunt for a meal that checks every box, pull out your casserole dish and give this classic a try tonight!

Why You’ll Love This

There’s a reason Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is a staple in so many kitchens. First, the star highlight: it’s pure comfort food, wrapped in a creamy, cheesy blanket, with every bite delivering tender chicken and perfectly cooked veggies. Making this at home also saves you money—not only is it far more budget-friendly than takeout, but you can customize it with ingredients you already have. Don’t forget the generous layer of melted cheddar on top, which adds that irresistible golden crust and puts this recipe over the top. Craving more cozy casseroles? Give my Chicken Alfredo Bake a try, too. Ready for a homemade dinner that leaves everyone asking for seconds? This one’s your ticket!

How to Make

Quick Overview

This casserole is so easy, you might just add it to your weeknight dinner rotation. With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have a bubbling, golden-topped meal on the table in about an hour. The appeal? A rich, creamy sauce, perfectly balanced with protein, veggies, and ooey-gooey cheese. Between prepping and baking, expect to spend roughly 15 minutes on prep and 40 minutes hands-off in the oven.

Baked casserole dish with golden cheese, chicken, broccoli, and rice

Ingredients

2 cups water
2 cups uncooked rice
1 can (10 ounces) cream of chicken soup
1 can (10 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1/4 cup butter
1 cup milk
1 small white onion, chopped
16 ounces broccoli pieces (fresh or frozen)
2 cups Cheddar cheese, shredded

Step-by-Step

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with a little butter or nonstick spray.
Cook the rice according to package instructions, using the 2 cups of water. Fluff and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
If using fresh broccoli, steam it for 3-4 minutes until just tender. If using frozen, defrost and drain if needed.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, cooked onion, steamed broccoli, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated.
Stir in half the shredded Cheddar cheese. Add salt and black pepper to taste.
Pour the mixture into your prepared casserole dish, smoothing the top.
Sprinkle the remaining Cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese is golden and melted.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

What to Serve Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole With

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad—think spinach with a zesty vinaigrette—or roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts. For a touch of freshness, serve alongside sliced tomatoes or a cold cucumber salad. Want to keep things classic? Add a basket of warm dinner rolls or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce. On chilly evenings, a bowl of tomato soup or light chicken broth also works great as a starter. For drinks, serve with iced tea, fresh lemonade, or a chilled white wine for adults.

Top Tips for Perfecting

Swap out the chicken for leftover turkey or rotisserie chicken in busy weeks.
Lighten things up by using a reduced-fat Cheddar or subbing Greek yogurt for some of the milk.
Love spice? Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a little tang.
Don’t overcook the broccoli—steam just until tender so it holds up in the oven and keeps its beautiful green color.
If your casserole looks dry before baking, add an extra splash of milk or chicken broth.

Avoid mixing all the cheese into the casserole—save half for that luscious topping! And if you use instant rice, cut down the cooking liquid or your bake may be too wet. Experiment with your favorite veggies or even a different kind of cheese—Monterey Jack and mozzarella both work beautifully.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftovers are a blessing with casseroles! Simply cover the cooled casserole tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in a 350 degree oven for 20-25 minutes until hot throughout. This casserole also freezes well: wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Add a few tablespoons of milk and cover with foil to keep the casserole moist while reheating.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can! Adjust the cooking time for the rice accordingly, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

Can I substitute the canned soups?
Absolutely. Condensed cream of celery or even homemade white sauce works in place of canned soups for a less processed option.

How do I make this vegetarian?
Skip the chicken and use extra broccoli or substitute in drained, canned chickpeas for added protein.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely. Assemble everything and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Add 10 extra minutes to the baking time if starting cold.

What’s the best cheese to use?
Sharp Cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend for a different flavor.

Conclusion

Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole is as comforting as a home-cooked hug—easy to prepare, full of flavor, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving something satisfying, this dish is sure to bring smiles to your table. Give it a try, make it your own with a few creative tweaks, and don’t forget to check out more hearty, wholesome recipes around the blog. Your next favorite comfort meal might be just a click away. Happy cooking!