Chicken broccoli rice casserole

Ingredients

- 8 +

• 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1

Preheat oven to 350F.

Done!

2

Cook rice according to package instructions.

Done!

3

In a large skillet, saut chicken and broccoli in butter until chicken is cooked through and broccoli is tender.

Done!

4

In a separate mixing bowl, combine milk, cream of chicken soup, and shredded cheese.

Done!

5

In a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish, arrange half of the cooked rice.

Done!

6

Add the chicken and broccoli mixture on top of the rice.

Done!

7

Pour the milk and cheese mixture over the top.

Done!

8

Arrange the remaining rice on top.

Done!

9

Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Done!

Kitchen Tools

• 9x13-inch casserole dish
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Chef's Tips

Use fresh broccoli instead of frozen for better texture and flavor.

Add some diced onions or bell peppers to the skillet with the chicken and broccoli for extra flavor.

Use low-sodium cream of chicken soup to reduce the sodium content of the dish.

Cover the casserole with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent the top from browning too quickly.

Troubleshooting

If the casserole is too dry, add some more milk or cream of chicken soup to the mixture.

If the casserole is too wet, add some more rice or bread crumbs to absorb the excess moisture.

If the cheese is not melted and bubbly, increase the oven temperature or baking time.

If the casserole is not hot and bubbly, check the oven temperature and baking time.

Recipe Variations

Add some diced ham or bacon to the skillet with the chicken and broccoli for a smoky flavor.

Use different types of cheese, such as Swiss or mozzarella, for a unique flavor profile.

Add some chopped herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to the milk and cheese mixture for extra flavor.

Use leftover cooked chicken or turkey instead of raw chicken for a convenient twist.

Healthy Alternatives

Use brown rice instead of white rice for more fiber and nutrients.

Use reduced-fat cheese and cream of chicken soup to lower the calorie and fat content.

Add some diced veggies like carrots or zucchini to the skillet with the chicken and broccoli for extra nutrients.

Use chicken breast without the skin to reduce the fat content.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Add some crusty bread or crackers on the side for a satisfying crunch.

Use as a main dish for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for extra creaminess.

Nutrition Facts

420

Calories

35g

Protein

30g

Carbs

20g

Fat

5g

Fiber

5g

Sugar

400mg

Sodium

60mg

Cholesterol

Dietary Info

Suitable for gluten-free diets when using gluten-free cream of chicken soup.

Suitable for low-carb diets when using cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.

Suitable for keto diets when using full-fat cheese and cream of chicken soup.

Not suitable for vegan diets due to the presence of chicken and dairy products.

Garnish Ideas

Sprinkle some chopped herbs, such as parsley or thyme, on top of the casserole before serving.

Add some diced veggies, such as carrots or bell peppers, on top of the casserole for extra color and flavor.

Use a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top of the casserole for extra creaminess.

Sprinkle some grated cheese, such as cheddar or parmesan, on top of the casserole for extra flavor.

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freeze individual portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.

Reheat refrigerated or frozen leftovers in the oven or microwave until hot and bubbly.

Use within a day or two of freezing for best flavor and texture.

Leftover Ideas

Use leftover cooked chicken or turkey to make chicken salad or sandwiches.

Use leftover cooked rice to make fried rice or rice bowls.

Use leftover broccoli to make a broccoli soup or salad.

Use leftover cheese to make a cheese plate or grilled cheese sandwiches.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not cooking the rice according to package instructions, resulting in undercooked or overcooked rice.

Not sauting the chicken and broccoli long enough, resulting in undercooked or raw chicken.

Not stirring the milk and cheese mixture well enough, resulting in a lumpy or separated sauce.

Not covering the casserole with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking, resulting in a burnt or overcooked top.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate or freeze until baking.

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

A: Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but thaw and pat dry before using.

Q: Can I use different types of cheese?

A: Yes, you can use different types of cheese, such as Swiss or mozzarella, for a unique flavor profile.

Q: Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

A: Yes, you can use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and gluten-free rice to make the casserole gluten-free.

Reviews

Emily B.

Mar 21, 2026

This casserole is amazing! I made it for my family and they loved it.

Michael T.

Feb 22, 2026

This casserole is delicious, but I think it needs more cheese.

Sarah K.

Mar 5, 2026

I made this casserole for a potluck and it was a hit!

David L.

Mar 6, 2026

This casserole is easy to make and tastes great, but I think it needs more veggies.

Rachel G.

Feb 24, 2026

I made this casserole for my kids and they loved it!

James D.

Mar 14, 2026

This casserole is great, but I think it needs more flavor.

Lisa N.

Feb 20, 2026

I made this casserole for a dinner party and it was a hit!

Tom S.

Mar 17, 2026

This casserole is delicious, but I think it needs more sauce.

Karen W.

Mar 19, 2026

I made this casserole for my family and they loved it!

Chris H.

Mar 5, 2026

This casserole is great, but I think it needs more protein.