Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole

Imagine sinking your fork into a warm, bubbling Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole where tender chunks of chicken nestle among perfectly cooked rice and vibrant broccoli florets, all enveloped in a rich, velvety cheese sauce. This comforting casserole brings together protein, vegetables, and carbs in one magnificent dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend family gatherings. The harmonious blend of savory flavors and creamy texture makes this Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole an instant favorite for both kids and adults alike. You’ll learn how to create this delicious one-dish wonder with simple ingredients and foolproof techniques.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that delivers on every level. First, it’s incredibly convenient – a complete meal in one dish that eliminates the need for multiple sides. The contrast between the tender chicken, slightly al dente broccoli, and fluffy rice creates a textural symphony that keeps every bite interesting.

The cheese sauce is the real star here – rich and velvety, coating every morsel with its creamy goodness without being overwhelmingly heavy. The subtle garlic notes and herbs elevate the flavors beyond a basic casserole, giving it a homemade touch that tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen.

Parents especially appreciate how this chicken broccoli casserole with rice sneaks in vegetables that even picky eaters devour without complaint. Plus, it’s easily adaptable based on what you have on hand, making it the perfect recipe for those “what’s for dinner?” moments when the pantry seems bare.

Ingredients

For this delicious Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole, you’ll need:

• 2 cups cooked rice (about 2/3 cup uncooked)
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 medium heads)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided (8 oz)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (4 oz)
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream or milk
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

The chicken provides lean protein while the broccoli adds vibrant color and nutritional value. The combination of cheddar and mozzarella creates the perfect cheese blend – cheddar for flavor and mozzarella for that irresistible stretchy quality.

Pro Tips

Perfectly Cooked Rice
For the best Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole, start with properly cooked rice. Cook it slightly al dente (about 2 minutes less than package directions) as it will continue cooking in the oven. Using day-old, chilled rice works wonderfully as it’s less likely to become mushy during baking. If using instant rice, reduce the liquid in your casserole by about 1/4 cup to prevent excess moisture.

Pre-Cook Your Broccoli
Blanch your broccoli florets for just 2 minutes in boiling water, then immediately plunge into ice water. This quick cooking process, called blanching, sets the bright green color and ensures the broccoli will be perfectly tender-crisp in the finished casserole, not mushy or undercooked. Thoroughly dry the broccoli before adding it to prevent excess water from diluting your sauce.

The Perfect Cheese Sauce
The key to a smooth, creamy sauce begins with a proper roux. Melt butter completely before adding flour, then cook the flour-butter mixture for 1-2 minutes until it smells slightly nutty but hasn’t browned. Add warm (not cold) liquid gradually while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Most importantly, remove the sauce from heat before adding cheese and stir until just melted – overheating will cause the cheese to separate and become grainy.

Instructions

Step 1: Prep Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cook rice according to package directions, but reduce cooking time by 2 minutes to keep it slightly undercooked. Meanwhile, cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season generously with salt and pepper. Blanch broccoli florets in boiling water for 2 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain thoroughly and set aside.

Step 2: Cook Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces in a single layer (work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding) and cook for 3-4 minutes until golden on the outside but not fully cooked through. They’ll finish cooking in the oven. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make The Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil and sauté diced onions until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add butter and allow it to melt completely. Sprinkle in flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in chicken broth while whisking constantly to prevent lumps, then add cream or milk. Bring to a gentle simmer until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Seasonings And Cheese
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese and all of the mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

Step 5: Combine And Bake
In a large mixing bowl, combine the partially cooked rice, chicken pieces, and blanched broccoli. Pour the cheese sauce over everything and gently fold until evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread in an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top. For a crispy topping, mix panko breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese.

Step 6: Bake To Perfection
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the top is golden brown. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to portion.

Variations

Make-Ahead Freezer Meal
This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole is perfect for meal prep. Prepare the entire casserole but don’t bake it. Cool completely, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. Alternatively, bake from frozen at 350°F for about 1 hour, covered with foil for the first 45 minutes.

Vegetarian Option
Create a delicious meatless version by replacing chicken with 2 cups of sliced mushrooms and 1 cup of diced bell peppers. Sauté the vegetables before adding to the casserole and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add 1 cup of white beans or chickpeas for protein, or mix in 1 cup of cubed firm tofu tossed with 1 tablespoon soy sauce for flavor.

Spicy Southwest Twist
Transform your casserole with Tex-Mex flavors by adding 1 diced jalapeño, 1 can of drained black beans, 1 cup of corn kernels, and swapping the thyme for 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning. Use pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella and top with crushed tortilla chips instead of breadcrumbs. Serve with avocado slices, sour cream, and cilantro.

Storage And Serving

This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole refrigerates beautifully for up to 4 days in an airtight container. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. The casserole can also be frozen after baking – portion it into individual containers for easy grab-and-go meals that will keep for up to 2 months.

For serving, pair this hearty casserole with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. A side of garlic bread or crusty French bread makes a perfect accompaniment for soaking up any extra cheese sauce. For a complete meal with minimal effort, simply add a fruit salad on the side.

Transform leftovers by using the casserole as a filling for stuffed bell peppers, or thin it slightly with additional broth to create a hearty soup for the next day.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice works well but requires adjustments. Pre-cook it according to package directions, as brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice. Reduce the chicken broth in the sauce by 1/4 cup since brown rice won’t absorb as much liquid during baking.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Use about 16 oz of frozen broccoli florets. There’s no need to thaw or pre-cook them; simply add them to the casserole frozen. They’ll cook perfectly during the baking process, though the texture may be slightly softer than with fresh broccoli.

My sauce is too thin. How can I thicken it?
If your sauce seems too thin before baking, create a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water. Add this to your warm sauce and simmer for 1-2 minutes until thickened. If the baked casserole is too watery, let it rest longer before serving to allow the rice to absorb excess moisture.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours ahead, cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then add 5-10 minutes to the baking time since you’re starting with a cold casserole.

What’s the best cheese to use for this casserole?
Medium or sharp cheddar provides the best flavor, while mozzarella adds stretchiness. For more complexity, try using a combination of cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack. Avoid pre-shredded cheese if possible, as it contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce less smooth.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole is comfort food at its finest — a satisfying one-dish wonder that wraps you in a warm hug of creamy, cheesy goodness while still delivering balanced nutrition. It’s the kind of dish that brings the family rushing to the dinner table and makes weeknight meals feel special without hours of preparation. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing potluck contribution or a reliable family dinner that guarantees clean plates and requests for seconds, this casserole delivers every time. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, fresh broccoli, and that irresistible cheese sauce creates a meal that feels like home, no matter where you’re serving it.

Print