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Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole brings together everything comforting about dinner in one bubbling dish. You get chunks of chicken, tender broccoli, and fluffy rice all held together with a rich cheese sauce that feels like pure comfort after a long day. It is a fast fix for hungry families and perfect for those moments when you want a crowd-pleaser without much fuss.
My kids always request this casserole after a busy day. The first time I served it for a weeknight dinner it disappeared before I could get seconds.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: provide lean protein and are easy to cook. Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and tastes delicious
- Cream of chicken soup: boosts the savory chicken flavor. Choose a low-sodium version for less salt
- Cream of mushroom soup: adds extra creaminess. Look for brands with real mushrooms for richer taste
- Heavy whipping cream: makes the sauce smooth and decadent. Use fresh cream for the best texture
- Colby Jack cheese: offers a creamy melt and mild flavor. Cheddar works for extra sharpness
- Broccoli: gives a pop of green and crunch. Fresh or frozen both work just chop into small pieces
- White rice: creates the casserole’s fluffy base. Day-old rice or cooked rice from last night holds up best in the sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep and Cook the Chicken:
- Brush chicken breasts with olive oil and season all over with garlic powder onion powder and seasoned salt. In a large skillet over medium heat cook the chicken for about five minutes per side until golden and reaching 165 degrees inside. Let it rest then dice into bite sized chunks
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- Reduce the skillet heat to low then add the cream of chicken soup cream of mushroom soup and heavy cream. Season with salt and black pepper. Stir in two cups of Colby Jack cheese until melted into a creamy sauce
- Add the Broccoli Rice and Chicken:
- Mix diced chicken broccoli and cooked rice into the cheese sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated. Break up any large broccoli pieces for even cooking
- Assemble and Top with Cheese:
- Pour the combined mixture into a nine by thirteen inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining Colby Jack cheese over the top making sure every inch is covered for that tasty cheesy crust
- Bake and Serve:
- Cover with foil and bake at three hundred fifty degrees for thirty to forty minutes. The casserole should be bubbling at the edges and piping hot inside. Let it rest for ten minutes before serving to help slices hold their shape
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Broccoli is my favorite addition here because it soaks up the sauce and adds freshness. My family always shares stories around the dinner table when this casserole comes out of the oven so it brings extra warmth beyond the food.
Storage Tips
Let the casserole cool to room temperature before storing. Seal leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to four days. For longer storage portions can be wrapped tightly in freezer-safe containers and frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight then reheat in the oven at three hundred fifty degrees until hot throughout.
Ingredient Substitutions
No Colby Jack cheese Try cheddar mozzarella or a mix of both. If you are out of heavy cream whole milk or even evaporated milk can make a creamy sauce in a pinch. You can swap in brown rice or even cooked quinoa for a different texture and extra fiber. Cauliflower florets work beautifully if you are short on broccoli.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole on its own or alongside a crisp green salad for a lighter meal. If you are feeding a crowd offer warm dinner rolls or roasted vegetables on the side. For extra comfort sprinkle a little more cheese over each serving and pop under the broiler for golden bubbly tops.
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Cultural and Historical Context
Casseroles like this became popular in American kitchens during the mid twentieth century when quick family meals were in high demand. Cream soups made these baked dishes both easy and affordable. The combination of broccoli chicken and rice has stood the test of time for good reason—it is a complete meal loved by all ages.
Commonly Asked Questions
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh?
Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken keeps things quick and adds extra flavor. Just mix it in with the sauce and rice.
- → Is frozen broccoli okay for this dish?
Yes, both fresh and frozen broccoli work well. Chop large florets so everything cooks evenly.
- → Which cheeses work best if I don't have Colby Jack?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorite melty cheeses all bring great taste and texture here.
- → Can this casserole be frozen for later?
Definitely! Cool it fully, then freeze in individual containers. Reheat until piping hot before serving.
- → How do I keep the casserole from getting mushy?
Using day-old or chilled rice helps maintain structure. Avoid overmixing after combining ingredients.
- → What's the best way to reheat leftovers?
Gently reheat in the oven covered with foil, or microwave individual portions until steaming hot.