Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting, creamy dish perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Combining tender chicken, broccoli, and cheese with fluffy rice, it offers a satisfying one-pan meal that’s easy to make and sure to please.

Ingredients

• 1 pound frozen broccoli
• 10 ounces cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, chopped into very small pieces
• 3 1/2 cups cooked white rice
• 3 cups diced, cooked chicken
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cracked pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. Step 2: Cook the frozen broccoli according to the package directions. Drain any excess liquid, then place the hot broccoli on a cutting board and chop into smaller, bite-sized pieces.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the cooked broccoli with the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and Velveeta cheese. Stir well until fully mixed.
4. Step 4: Add the cooked rice, diced chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Stir again to blend all ingredients together.
5. Step 5: Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if needed, especially depending on how your chicken was seasoned.
6. Step 6: Spoon the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
7. Step 7: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the oven for 15 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to brown the cheese.
8. Step 8: Serve the casserole hot and enjoy your creamy, cheesy meal.

Tips & Variations

• Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful protein option.
• Swap Velveeta with cream cheese for a tangier texture.
• Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
• Mix in some cooked mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350-degree oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions until hot.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh broccoli works well. Steam it until tender before chopping and using in the recipe.

What type of rice is best for this casserole?

Plain cooked white rice is recommended for the best texture, but you can use brown rice or any rice you prefer, adjusting cooking time as needed.

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 84 reviews

This hearty Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole combines tender cooked chicken, nutritious broccoli, creamy Velveeta cheese, and a blend of seasonings baked to perfection. It’s a comforting, one-dish meal perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, delivering creamy texture and rich flavors with every bite.

• Author: Elena
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 1 pound frozen broccoli

Dairy

• 1 cup sour cream
• 8 ounces Velveeta cheese (chopped into very small pieces)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Proteins

• 3 cups diced, cooked chicken

Carbohydrates

• 3 1/2 cups cooked white rice

Condiments & Seasonings

• 10 ounces cream of chicken soup
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cracked pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook and Chop Broccoli: Cook the frozen broccoli according to package directions. Once cooked, drain any excess liquid. Place the hot broccoli on a cutting board and chop into smaller, bite-sized pieces to ensure even distribution in the casserole.
3. Combine Creamy Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and Velveeta cheese pieces. Stir well until all are thoroughly combined.
4. Add Rice, Chicken, and Seasonings: Mix in the cooked white rice, diced cooked chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and cracked pepper. Stir everything together evenly to combine all flavors.
5. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if necessary. If your chicken was already seasoned, the current amount might be sufficient. Otherwise, add more salt, pepper, or spices to your preference.
6. Assemble the Casserole: Pour and evenly spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
7. Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. This helps the casserole heat through and cheese to melt gradually.
8. Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil carefully and continue baking for another 10 minutes. This will allow the cheese to brown slightly and develop a nice crust.
9. Serve Hot: Once baked, remove from the oven and serve the casserole hot for a comforting meal.

Notes

• Sour cream adds creaminess; you can substitute with plain Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor and healthier option.
• Use cooked chicken leftovers or rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor.
• Make sure to fully cook and drain the broccoli to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
• Feel free to add extra herbs or spices like paprika or thyme for more flavor depth.
• This dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated; bake straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to baking time.

Keywords: chicken broccoli rice casserole, cheesy broccoli casserole, chicken casserole, baked casserole, comfort food, easy dinner recipe