Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole (Easy, Budget-Friendly & Family Approved)
There are some recipes that earn a permanent place in the dinner rotation, and this cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole is one of them. It’s warm, creamy, filling, and made with ingredients most families already have on hand. When you need a meal that stretches your grocery budget, feeds everyone happily, and reheats like a dream, this casserole checks every box.
This dish brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, and bright broccoli in a rich, cheesy sauce that bakes into pure comfort. It’s the kind of dinner that feels nostalgic and cozy, yet practical enough for busy weeknights. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or trying to use up leftover chicken, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- Cooked chicken breast or thighs, diced or shredded
- Cooked white rice
- Broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- Butter
- All-purpose flour
- Milk
- Garlic, minced
- Onion powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Optional breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven and lightly grease a casserole dish.
- Steam or blanch broccoli until just tender and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and sauté garlic briefly.
- Whisk in flour and cook for about one minute.
- Slowly add milk, whisking constantly, until smooth and thickened.
- Season the sauce with onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella until melted and creamy.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, chicken, broccoli, and cheese sauce.
- Transfer mixture to the prepared casserole dish.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top if using.
- Bake until hot, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
- Let rest a few minutes before serving.
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven and grease a casserole dish.
- Cook broccoli until just tender and set aside.
- Melt butter and sauté garlic in a saucepan.
- Whisk in flour, then slowly add milk until thickened.
- Season sauce and stir in cheeses until melted.
- Combine rice, chicken, broccoli, and sauce.
- Transfer to dish and bake until bubbly and golden.
Notes
Every bite delivers creamy comfort with just enough texture from the broccoli to keep things balanced. It’s simple food done right—and exactly what family dinners are meant to be.
Tips & Tricks
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Slightly undercook broccoli to avoid mushy texture.
- Freshly shredded cheese melts smoother than pre-shredded.
- Add a splash of milk before reheating to restore creaminess.
Variations
- Swap broccoli for cauliflower or mixed vegetables.
- Use brown rice for a heartier texture.
- Add cooked bacon for smoky flavor.
- Stir in a pinch of paprika or mustard powder for depth.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a simple green salad.
- Pair with garlic bread or dinner rolls.
- Add roasted vegetables on the side.
- Enjoy on its own as a complete meal.
Storage Information
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze tightly wrapped portions for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight and reheat gently.
FAQ
- Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. - Can I use uncooked rice?
This recipe works best with pre-cooked rice. - Is this freezer-friendly?
Absolutely, it freezes very well.
History / Fun Facts
Chicken and rice casseroles became popular as economical meals during times when families needed to stretch ingredients. Adding broccoli brought color, nutrition, and balance to the dish, turning it into a complete one-pan dinner loved across generations.
