This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole is the ultimate cozy family dinner—rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced with tender chicken, fluffy rice, fresh broccoli, and melted cheese. It’s a one-dish comfort meal that brings warmth to the table and makes everyone reach for seconds.
I love this casserole because it combines everything you need in one pan: protein, vegetables, and carbs. It’s hearty but not heavy, creamy but not greasy, and it’s easy to make ahead or customize with what you have on hand. Plus, it’s baked until the cheese forms a bubbly, golden crust that smells absolutely amazing coming out of the oven.
Serve it with a simple salad or warm bread for a complete meal. It’s the kind of dinner that feels nostalgic—homemade, comforting, and deeply satisfying.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Every ingredient in this casserole contributes to its creaminess and flavor, and there are plenty of ways to adapt it to your taste.
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken works perfectly. You can also use turkey for a holiday leftover twist.
Broccoli: Fresh florets bring a pop of color and texture, but thawed frozen broccoli works well too—just drain excess moisture.
Rice: White rice gives a soft and classic texture. Use brown rice for a nutty flavor and extra fiber.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella are the perfect duo for stretch and flavor. Swap in Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even Pepper Jack for variety.
Cream Soup: Condensed cream of mushroom or chicken soup adds body and creaminess. For a homemade option, make a quick roux with butter, flour, and milk.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Adds tang and richness. Greek yogurt gives a lighter texture while keeping it creamy.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×9-inch casserole dish for even baking
- Large mixing bowl to combine all ingredients
- Skillet for sautéing onion and garlic
- Measuring cups and spoons for precision
- Wooden spoon or spatula for mixing
- Aluminum foil to cover if browning too fast
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked bacon bits or diced ham for smoky flavor.
- Mix in chopped spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more veggies.
- Use Pepper Jack cheese for a spicy kick.
- Top with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for a crispy crust.
- Replace chicken with cooked turkey or even canned tuna for variation.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, drained)
- 1½ cups cooked white rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom or chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Olive oil or butter for sautéing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare, 25–30 minutes to bake, and 5 minutes to rest before serving. In total, you’ll have a hot, comforting dinner on the table in under 45 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
2. Cook the Broccoli
Steam or blanch broccoli just until tender but still bright green. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
3. Sauté Onion and Garlic
In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and softened. Remove from heat.
4. Mix the Base
In a large bowl, combine chicken, cooked rice, broccoli, sautéed onion, garlic, cream soup, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), milk, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until creamy and evenly coated.
5. Add Cheese and Assemble
Fold in half of the cheddar and all of the mozzarella cheese. Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar evenly over the surface.
6. Bake and Serve
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese on top is golden brown. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Pro Tips for Best Texture & Taste
Small tweaks make all the difference in turning this casserole from good to unforgettable.
- Use freshly shredded cheese—it melts smoother than pre-shredded bags.
- Drain the broccoli well so the casserole doesn’t become watery.
- Let the dish rest before serving; it firms up and slices beautifully.
- For a richer flavor, add a spoonful of cream cheese to the mixture.
- Double the recipe and freeze half for an easy future dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add 5 extra minutes to the oven time.
Can I freeze Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?
Absolutely. Wrap the unbaked casserole tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen at 350°F, adding 15–20 extra minutes.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if needed to refresh the creaminess.
Can I use other vegetables?
Yes! Cauliflower, peas, or green beans all work well. Just make sure to cook and drain them before mixing into the casserole.