Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Packed with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, creamy soup, and melty cheese, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines hearty ingredients into one satisfying casserole.
- Perfect for busy nights, ready in just 35 minutes.
- A great way to use up leftover chicken and rice.
- Family-friendly with a creamy, cheesy flavor that everyone loves.
- Customizable with your favorite veggies and seasonings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups diced rotisserie chicken (or any other cooked chicken)
- 2 cups broccoli florets, broken down into bite-sized pieces
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (can use low-sodium or Healthy Request)
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- Seasoning to taste (salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder)
For the Topping:
- 1/2–3/4 cup crushed corn flakes
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In the baking dish, combine the diced chicken, broccoli florets, cream of chicken soup, cooked rice, shredded cheese, mayonnaise, and your desired seasonings. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Evenly sprinkle the crushed corn flakes over the top of the casserole mixture.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the corn flakes to ensure a crispy, golden topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the topping is golden and crunchy.
- Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy comfort of this delightful casserole.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 8 servings
- Calories: 354 kcal
Variations
- Veggie Boost: Add chopped carrots, peas, or cauliflower for extra nutrition.
- Different Cheese: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix of your favorites.
- Protein Options: Substitute chicken with turkey, ham, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
- Healthier Option: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter dish.
- Gluten-Free: Replace the cream of chicken soup and corn flakes with gluten-free alternatives.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just thaw and drain it before mixing it into the casserole.
2. What type of rice works best?
Any cooked rice works, but long-grain or basmati rice provides the best texture.
3. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to a day before baking.
4. What can I use instead of corn flakes for the topping?
Try breadcrumbs, crushed Ritz crackers, or even panko for a crunchy topping.
5. Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cheese and substitute the cream of chicken soup with a dairy-free version.
6. Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, assemble it without the topping, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Add the topping just before baking.
7. How do I know when it’s done?
The casserole is ready when it’s bubbling around the edges, and the topping is golden brown.
8. What other soups can I use if I don’t have cream of chicken?
Cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup works well as substitutes.
9. Can I use leftover grilled chicken?
Yes, leftover grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor to the casserole.
10. What side dishes pair well with this casserole?
A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement this dish perfectly.
Conclusion
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole is a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that brings comfort to the table with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing a dish for a potluck, this casserole is guaranteed to impress. Try it today and savor the creamy, cheesy goodness.
Print
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Savor the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole. A creamy, cheesy bake that’s perfect for family dinners or easy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups diced rotisserie chicken (or any cooked chicken)
- 2 cups broccoli florets, bite-sized
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (low-sodium or Healthy Request optional)
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- Seasoning: salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder
For the Topping:
- 1/2–3/4 cup crushed corn flakes
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Casserole Mixture:
- In the dish, combine chicken, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, cooked rice, shredded cheese, mayonnaise, and seasonings. Mix thoroughly.
- Add the Topping:
- Evenly sprinkle crushed corn flakes over the mixture. Drizzle melted butter on top.
- Bake:
- Bake for 30–35 minutes until heated through and the topping is golden and crispy.
- Serve:
- Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, creamy goodness!
Notes
- Substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom for variation.
- Add a pinch of paprika to the topping for extra flavor.
- Pair with a side salad for a balanced meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 354 kcal
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