Broccoli Rice Cheese and Chicken Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly dish that has earned its place as a go-to meal in many households. This hearty casserole brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, nutritious broccoli, and melty cheddar cheese, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s an all-in-one meal that satisfies both kids and adults alike, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings.

One of the reasons casseroles are so beloved is their simplicity—everything is cooked in one pan, which means less cleanup. They’re filling, easy to prepare, and adaptable to different tastes and ingredients. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced chef, casseroles like this offer a versatile base that can be customized based on what’s available in your kitchen. You can also make this dish ahead of time, making meal prep a breeze for busy days.

Ingredient Breakdown 

Butter (2 tablespoons):
Butter plays a crucial role in this casserole, adding richness to the dish and helping brown the chicken. When you sear chicken in butter, it not only prevents sticking but also creates a flavorful crust, enhancing the overall taste of the protein. Additionally, butter lends a creamy mouthfeel to the dish, contributing to its indulgent nature.

Chicken (2 boneless/skinless chicken breasts or 2 cups diced rotisserie chicken):
The chicken is the primary source of protein in the casserole. You can use either raw chicken breasts or pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience. Using raw chicken allows you to season and sear it for a freshly cooked flavor, while rotisserie chicken speeds up the process, making this a quick weeknight meal. Either option works well, but rotisserie chicken adds a bit more moisture and flavor from the roasting process.

Seasonings (Italian seasoning, salt, pepper):
Seasoning the chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper ensures a deep, flavorful base. Italian seasoning brings a blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme, elevating the dish with earthy and aromatic notes. Adjusting the seasoning to your taste is easy, whether you prefer a stronger herb presence or something milder.

Chicken Broth (2 1/2 cups):
Using chicken broth to cook the rice is key to infusing the grains with a savory flavor. Broth adds depth to the dish that plain water cannot achieve. Opt for homemade broth if available, as it usually has a richer taste, but store-bought varieties work just as well. Low-sodium broth is a good option if you’re watching your salt intake.

Rice (1 1/4 cups uncooked long-grain white rice):
Long-grain white rice is ideal for this casserole because of its fluffy texture and ability to absorb flavors without becoming mushy. As the base of the dish, it provides a hearty component that ties everything together. If you prefer, you can substitute brown rice for a healthier option, though the cooking time may need to be adjusted. Quinoa or wild rice are also great alternatives for a more complex flavor and additional nutrients.

Broccoli (2 cups fresh florets):
Broccoli adds vibrant color, texture, and a wealth of nutrients to the casserole. Known for its high vitamin C and fiber content, it’s a great way to incorporate vegetables into a meal that might otherwise lean heavily on starches and proteins. Fresh florets are recommended for the best texture, but frozen broccoli can also be used—just ensure it’s thoroughly thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.

Cream of Chicken Soup (10.5 oz. can):
The cream of chicken soup serves as the base for the casserole’s creamy sauce, binding the ingredients together. It offers a rich, comforting flavor with minimal effort. If you prefer to avoid processed ingredients, you can make a homemade roux or cream-based sauce as a substitute. Dairy-based alternatives like béchamel or a mushroom cream sauce can provide a similar creamy consistency.

Milk (1/2 cup):
Milk helps to thin the cream of chicken soup, making the sauce smooth and velvety without being overly thick. Regular dairy milk works well, but plant-based milks such as almond or oat milk can be used for a dairy-free option. For a richer texture, you could also use heavy cream.

Sour Cream (1/2 cup):
Sour cream adds a tangy richness to the sauce, balancing out the flavors of the dish. Its creamy texture complements the other ingredients without overwhelming the palate. For a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt, which provides similar tang and creaminess with added protein.

Cheddar Cheese (2 cups grated, divided):
Cheddar cheese plays a dual role in this casserole. Half of it melts into the creamy mixture, enhancing the flavor with its sharp, bold profile, while the other half is reserved for topping, creating a bubbly, golden crust. You can substitute other cheeses like mozzarella, Colby Jack, or even Gruyère for a different flavor twist.

Garlic Powder & Thyme (Optional):
Both garlic powder and thyme add extra layers of flavor to the casserole. Garlic powder gives a subtle kick of warmth and spice, while thyme brings an earthy, aromatic note. These ingredients are optional, but they can elevate the dish if you’re looking for more complex flavors.

Ritz Crackers & Melted Butter (1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons):
Crushed Ritz crackers mixed with melted butter create a buttery, crunchy topping that contrasts perfectly with the soft, creamy interior of the casserole. The topping adds texture and richness, enhancing each bite. If you’re looking for alternatives, panko breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips can be used for a similar crunchy effect.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions 

Preheat Oven and Prepare Casserole Dish 

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole cooks evenly throughout. Preheating the oven to the right temperature before baking is crucial to avoid undercooking or overcooking the dish. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent the ingredients from sticking to the dish during baking.

Cook Chicken 

If using raw chicken breasts, season them generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for maximum flavor. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is hot and melted, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This will give the chicken a nice sear, enhancing its flavor and texture. Alternatively, for a quicker option, you can use 2 cups of diced rotisserie chicken, which will save time and still provide rich flavor.

Cook Rice and Broccoli 

In the same pot where you cooked the chicken (to preserve the flavor), add 2 1/2 cups of chicken broth and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Bring the mixture to a boil, then stir in 1 1/4 cups of uncooked long-grain white rice. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 7 minutes. Adding olive oil prevents the rice from sticking and helps it cook evenly.

After 7 minutes, without stirring, layer the broccoli florets on top of the rice. This method allows the broccoli to steam gently while the rice finishes cooking, which preserves its nutrients and texture. Cover the pot again and cook for an additional 8 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the broccoli is cooked but still crisp. Alternatively, you can steam the broccoli separately if you prefer a firmer texture.

Prepare Creamy Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup, 1/2 cup of milk, 1/2 cup of sour cream, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder (optional), and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme (optional). Stir the ingredients until they are fully combined and the mixture is smooth. It’s important to mix everything thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavor and to avoid any lumps in the sauce. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream or use a lower-fat version of the soup.

Combine Rice, Broccoli, and Creamy Mixture

Once the rice and broccoli are done, allow them to sit covered for 10 minutes. Then, add the rice and broccoli into the creamy chicken mixture, stirring gently until everything is evenly combined. This step ensures that all components are well-distributed, so every bite of the casserole is balanced in flavor and texture.

Layer and Top with Cheese and Crackers 

Spread the combined mixture evenly into your prepared casserole dish. Top it with the remaining grated cheddar cheese, spreading it out evenly for a gooey, melty top layer. Then, sprinkle the crushed Ritz crackers over the cheese. This provides a delicious crunchy contrast to the creamy base of the casserole.

Bake the Casserole 

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in your preheated oven for 15 minutes to lock in moisture and allow the flavors to meld. After 15 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and the cracker topping is golden brown and crispy.

Tips for Perfecting Your Casserole 

Choosing the Right Rice

Long-grain white rice works best for this casserole because it absorbs the chicken broth well, resulting in a light, fluffy texture that doesn’t become mushy. If you want to experiment with other grains, wild rice or quinoa are great alternatives. Wild rice adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber, while quinoa provides a protein boost and a slightly different texture. Be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly if you opt for these alternatives, as they may need more or less time to cook.

Customizing Ingredients

The beauty of casseroles lies in their versatility. While chicken is the classic choice, you can easily substitute it with other proteins such as turkey, beef, or tofu for a vegetarian version. If you want to add more vegetables, consider incorporating peas, carrots, or spinach into the dish. These vegetables complement the flavors and add more nutrients and color to the casserole.

Cheese Variations

While cheddar is commonly used in this recipe for its sharp flavor and meltability, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Gruyère adds a rich, nutty flavor, while Parmesan provides a salty, savory punch. Monterey Jack or Colby Jack are milder options that also melt well and can be substituted if you prefer a creamier, less sharp cheese topping.

Make-Ahead Tips

To save time, you can prep components of the casserole ahead of time. Cook the chicken and rice a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Alternatively, you can fully assemble the casserole and freeze it before baking. When ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. Reheating leftovers is simple—just cover the casserole and bake at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual servings for a quick meal.

Nutritional Benefits of the Casserole

This Broccoli Rice Cheese and Chicken Casserole is not only delicious but also offers several nutritional benefits.

Protein-Packed: The chicken and cheddar cheese provide high-quality protein, making this dish ideal for muscle repair and maintenance. Chicken is a lean source of protein, while cheddar cheese contributes both protein and fats that help keep you full and satisfied.

Vegetables for Balance: Broccoli plays a crucial role in balancing the richness of the casserole. It’s packed with dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, as well as essential vitamins like C and K. Broccoli also contains antioxidants that help protect your body from oxidative stress, promoting overall health.

Calcium from Dairy: Dairy ingredients such as cheese, sour cream, and milk are rich in calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth. These dairy products also contribute to the creamy texture and enhance the flavor of the casserole.

Customizing for Diets: For gluten-free options, simply replace the Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs, and ensure your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free. To reduce fat content, you can use low-fat sour cream, milk, and cheese, or opt for Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.

Serving Suggestions 

Side Dishes: To complement the richness of the casserole, serve it with a light, crisp salad or some steamed vegetables. A simple side salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette will help cleanse the palate and provide extra freshness. Alternatively, steamed vegetables like green beans, carrots, or peas can add more nutrients and balance the dish without overwhelming the flavors.

Adding bread or rolls is another great option to make the meal more filling. A warm loaf of crusty bread or soft dinner rolls pairs wonderfully with the creamy casserole, offering a satisfying texture contrast.

Pairing with Drinks: For wine lovers, a glass of Chardonnay is an excellent pairing, as its buttery notes complement the richness of the cheese and sour cream. If you prefer red wine, opt for a light Pinot Noir, which won’t overpower the delicate flavors of the dish.

For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime adds a refreshing, light contrast to the casserole’s creaminess. Iced tea, either unsweetened or lightly sweetened, also works well to cleanse the palate between bites.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used in place of fresh. However, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Since frozen broccoli is partially cooked during the freezing process, it will cook more quickly. Ensure it’s fully thawed and drained before adding to the casserole, or cook it directly from frozen but reduce the time it steams on the rice to avoid overcooking.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. This casserole can be prepped in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. Assemble the dish and cover it with plastic wrap or foil, then bake when ready. This makes it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or when you want to have dinner ready in advance.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make the recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and substitute the Ritz crackers with a gluten-free alternative, such as gluten-free breadcrumbs or crackers. Be sure to check all ingredient labels, especially the soup, to confirm there’s no hidden gluten.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. You can freeze it before baking or after it has cooled completely. If freezing before baking, cover it tightly with foil and plastic wrap. When ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. If freezing after baking, allow the casserole to cool fully before wrapping it for freezing. Reheat it in the oven until warmed through.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
To reheat leftovers, cover the casserole and bake it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20–25 minutes. For smaller portions, you can also microwave individual servings in a microwave-safe dish. If microwaving, cover with a microwave-safe lid or wrap to retain moisture.

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