Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
This Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish that combines tender shredded chicken, nutritious broccoli, and fluffy rice all baked together in a rich mixture of cream of chicken and cheddar cheese soups. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh parsley, it’s a one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Vegetables
- 3 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded or cubed (about 4 cups)
- 12 ounces broccoli florets (frozen or fresh)
- chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Soups and Dairy
- 10.5 ounces Campbell’s cream of chicken soup (1 can)
- 10.5 ounces Campbell’s cheddar cheese soup (1 can)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Rice and Broth
- 2 cups Minute rice (or quick cooking rice, uncooked)
- 2 cups chicken broth
Additional Flavoring
- 1 tablespoon chicken base (optional, but amps up the richness and flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400˚F to get it ready for baking the casserole.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly mix together the cream of chicken soup, cheddar cheese soup, shredded chicken, broccoli florets, uncooked rice, chicken broth, sour cream, and chicken base if using. Ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated to create a creamy mixture.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Spread the combined mixture evenly into a 9×13 inch baking dish so it cooks uniformly.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole mixture to create a cheesy crust.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake on the middle rack of the oven for 40 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb the liquid and the flavors to meld.
- Uncover and Continue Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to brown the cheese topping.
- Optional Broiling: For a crispier top, broil the casserole for 3-4 minutes until you achieve golden, crispy bits.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, and serve hot for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Using Minute rice or quick cooking rice ensures the casserole cooks properly within the given time; if using regular rice, additional cooking time may be needed.
- Chicken base is optional but recommended for an extra depth of flavor.
- Fresh broccoli works well, but frozen broccoli florets are convenient and equally delicious.
- Broiling at the end is optional but adds a lovely crisp texture on top.
- This casserole can be prepared in advance and baked when ready.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheated.
Keywords: cheesy broccoli chicken casserole, chicken and rice casserole, broccoli rice bake, comfort food casserole, easy chicken dinner
