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Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Chicken broccoli rice casserole baked in a white ceramic casserole dish on a bright white marble surface, with creamy rice, chicken pieces, broccoli florets, melted cheddar, and a lightly golden breadcrumb topping.

Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a cozy baked dinner made with cooked chicken, broccoli, rice, cheddar cheese, and a simple creamy sauce. It bakes until hot, bubbly, and lightly golden, making it a practical 45 mins meal for busy weeknights or make ahead dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or lightly steamed
  • 2 cups cooked rice, white or brown
  • 1 can 10.5 oz condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus extra for topping
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika, optional for color
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, optional for topping
  • 1 tablespoon butter, optional for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven: Set the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish.
  2. Prepare broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, steam or microwave it for 3 to 4 mins, until just tender but still bright green. Drain well so the casserole does not turn watery.
  3. Mix filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, 1 cup cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
  4. Assemble casserole: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle extra shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
  5. Add topping: Melt the butter and mix it with the breadcrumbs, if using. Scatter the buttered crumbs over the cheese for a crunchy finish.
  6. Bake casserole: Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 mins, until hot, bubbling around the edges, and lightly golden on top. Let it rest for 5 mins before serving.

Notes

  • Use cooked rice only, since uncooked rice will not soften properly in this casserole.
  • Frozen broccoli works well, but thaw and drain it first to avoid extra moisture.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat covered in a 325°F oven, or microwave individual portions until hot.

Nutrition

Keywords: hicken broccoli rice casserole