The Ultimate Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Cheesy broccoli chicken and rice casserole represents the ultimate comfort food for families seeking hearty, satisfying meals.

Warm, melted cheese blankets perfectly cooked chicken, creating a mouthwatering blend of textures and flavors.

Nutritious broccoli adds a vibrant green element that elevates this classic dish beyond ordinary weeknight dinners.

Busy home cooks appreciate how seamlessly these ingredients change into a crowd-pleasing meal that requires minimal preparation.

The one-pan approach simplifies cooking and cleanup, making this recipe a smart choice for those juggling multiple responsibilities.

Creamy, rich, and incredibly delicious, this casserole promises to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Preparing Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole Step by Step

Step 1: Season Chicken

Sprinkle salt and pepper over chicken cubes to boost flavor.

Step 2: Brown Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a plate.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan, cook onions until soft and translucent, around 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

• Rice
• Chicken stock
• Water

Mix thoroughly and bring to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer Rice

Reduce heat, cover pan tightly, and simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 6: Add Broccoli

Stir in broccoli, cover again, and cook until rice is tender, about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally.

Step 7: Prepare Oven

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

Step 8: Create Creamy Mixture

Stir in milk and of shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.

Step 9: Bake and Melt Cheese

Sprinkle remaining cheese on top. Transfer to preheated oven and bake 10-15 minutes until cheese melts and becomes bubbly.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from oven and serve immediately while hot and cheesy.

Tips for Better Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole

• Season Strategically: Use a blend of salt, pepper, and optional herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the chicken's natural flavors before browning.
• Brown with Precision: Ensure chicken cubes develop a golden-brown crust by avoiding overcrowding the pan, which helps lock in moisture and creates deeper taste profiles.
• Rice Texture Matters: Select long-grain white rice for optimal absorption and fluffy consistency, preventing potential mushiness during the cooking process.
• Cheese Melting Technique: Grate cheese freshly and allow it to reach room temperature before adding, promoting smoother melting and more even distribution throughout the casserole.
• Broccoli Brilliance: Cut broccoli florets into uniform sizes to guarantee even cooking and prevent some pieces from becoming overcooked while others remain undercooked.

Maintaining Freshness for Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container within two hours of cooking. Keep the casserole refrigerated for up to four days to maintain optimal freshness and food safety.
• Reheating Oven Method: Preheat oven to 350°F. Transfer casserole to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle a few tablespoons of chicken stock or water to prevent drying. Cover with aluminum foil and warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through completely.
• Microwave Method: Place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of chicken stock to keep moisture levels high. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly. Stop heating when the casserole reaches steaming hot temperature throughout.

Ways to Serve Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio cuts through the creamy richness of the casserole, balancing its cheesy depth with bright, zesty notes.
• Complement with Fresh Green Salad: Toss a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to provide a tangy contrast against the warm, hearty casserole, adding freshness and balance to the meal.
• Serve with Buttery Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread becomes the perfect sidekick, helping to soak up the extra cheese and providing a satisfying crunch that enhances the overall dining experience.
• Match with Fruity Craft Beer: A slightly hoppy pale ale or wheat beer offers a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, cheesy chicken and rice, creating a delightful flavor harmony on your palate.

Extra Twists for Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole

• Spicy Southwest Sensation: Replace chicken stock with salsa, add diced jalapeños, and swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese for a zesty kick.
• Mediterranean Medley: Substitute broccoli with spinach, use feta cheese, add oregano and diced tomatoes for a Greek-inspired version.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Companion: Swap rice with cauliflower rice, use Greek yogurt instead of milk, and include extra protein like diced bacon for added flavor.
• Vegetarian Veggie Blend: Remove chicken, double the broccoli, add mushrooms and zucchini, use vegetable broth, and incorporate nutritional yeast for a cheesy plant-based alternative.

Reasons to Make Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole

• Whip Up a Comfort Food Classic: This cheesy broccoli chicken and rice casserole delivers pure home-cooked comfort with minimal kitchen effort, combining protein-packed chicken, hearty rice, and nutritious broccoli in one satisfying dish.
• Savor the One-Pan Wonder: Streamline your cooking process by using a single skillet from stovetop to oven, reducing cleanup time and maximizing flavor development through layered cooking techniques.
• Customize Your Creamy Cheesy Delight: Easily adapt the recipe by swapping cheddar for different cheese varieties, adjusting spice levels, or adding extra vegetables to match your taste preferences and nutritional needs.
• Meal Prep Magic: Perfect for busy families and individuals seeking a nutritionally balanced meal that can be prepared quickly, stored easily, and reheated without losing its delicious texture and flavor profile.

What You Need for Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole

• Chicken Cubes: Tender meat that provides the main protein source, best when fresh and trimmed of excess fat.
• Chicken Stock: Adds rich flavor and helps cook the rice with depth, low-sodium option recommended for better control of saltiness.

• Broccoli, Onion, Garlic: Fresh vegetables that add nutrition, texture, and aromatic flavor to the casserole, choose crisp and vibrant produce.

• Milk, Cheddar Cheese: Creamy elements that create a smooth, rich sauce and provide a golden, melty topping, select sharp cheddar for more intense flavor.

• Rice: Provides a hearty base for the casserole, long-grain white rice works best for even cooking and fluffy texture.

• Salt, Pepper, Olive Oil, Water: Essential for seasoning, cooking, and moisture, use kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for best results.

Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 16 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Classic comfort meets nutritious delight in this Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole. Creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and crisp broccoli combine for a hearty meal that satisfies from first bite to last, promising warmth and flavor in each comforting forkful.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound (454 grams) chicken breasts, cut into 1×1-inch cubes
• 1½ cups (270 grams) white long grain rice, rinsed
• 3 cups (450 grams) broccoli florets, roughly chopped
• 2 cups (226 grams) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided

Liquid Ingredients:

• 2 cups (473 milliliters) water
• 2 cups (473 milliliters) chicken stock
• ½ cup (118 milliliters) milk
• Olive oil for cooking

Aromatic Ingredients:

• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Thoroughly season chicken cubes with salt and black pepper to elevate the overall taste profile.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, carefully searing chicken pieces until golden brown on all surfaces, approximately 5-7 minutes.
3. Transfer browned chicken to a separate plate, reserving the flavorful pan drippings.
4. In the identical skillet, gently sauté diced onions until they become soft and translucent, approximately 4-5 minutes.
5. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, releasing its aromatic qualities without burning.
6. Reintroduce the browned chicken to the skillet, combining with uncooked rice, chicken stock, and water, ensuring thorough mixing.
7. Bring the entire mixture to a rolling boil, then immediately reduce heat to low, covering the skillet tightly.
8. Simmer the contents for 10-12 minutes, allowing rice to partially cook and absorb liquid.
9. Carefully fold chopped broccoli florets into the partially cooked mixture, replacing the lid and continuing to cook.
10. Allow the dish to simmer for an additional 15-18 minutes, occasionally stirring to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
11. Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) during the final cooking stages.
12. Gently stir in whole milk and of shredded cheddar cheese, thoroughly incorporating throughout the mixture.
13. Sprinkle remaining cheese across the top of the casserole.
14. Transfer the skillet or transfer contents to a baking dish and place in preheated oven.
15. Bake for 12-15 minutes until cheese melts completely and develops a light golden crust.
16. Remove from oven and let rest for 3-4 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.
17. Serve immediately while hot, garnishing with optional fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

• Maximize flavor by seasoning chicken cubes with salt and pepper before browning in olive oil for a delicious golden exterior.
• Create a rich base by sautéing onions until soft, then adding garlic for an aromatic foundation that builds depth in the casserole.
• Transform your pan into a one-pot wonder by returning browned chicken and combining rice, stock, and water for a hearty mixture.
• Integrate broccoli during the final cooking stage, ensuring tender vegetables and perfectly cooked rice blend seamlessly together.
• Elevate the dish with a generous cheese topping, melting cheddar until golden and bubbly for an irresistible creamy finish.
• Serve immediately for the ultimate comfort food experience, enjoying the warm, cheesy goodness straight from the oven.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 450 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg