Go Back
+ servings

Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

Ann Jones
Ah, the beloved casserole! It’s like a warm hug on a plate. The Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole stands out amidst the sea of bakeware delights. 
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 Servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into small cubes
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • ¼ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika adds a subtle smoky depth to the dish
  • ¾ cup uncooked long-grain rice
  • 1 can 10 ounces cream of chicken soup
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped

Instructions
 

  • Ready to dive into the cooking process? Let’s break it down step by step.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

  • Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). A little preheating helps ensure even cooking for our casserole.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it softens, about 3-4 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  • Next, add the cubed chicken. Cook until no longer pink on the outside, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. I love paprika; it gives that smoky flavor, and the color? It’s a beauty!

Step 3: Combine Key Ingredients

  • In a large bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth until well blended. Stir in uncooked rice, and then fold in broccoli florets. Finally, add your sautéed chicken mixture into the bowl, ensuring everything’s coated evenly.

Step 4: Assemble in a Casserole Dish

  • Transfer your mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly. Seriously, the scents will start to draw folks in at this stage.

Step 5: Cheese and Bake

  • Sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly over the top. Cover with aluminum foil (to keep it from browning too fast) and bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is beautifully golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

  • Once finished, let the casserole sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This step helps everything a little. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. All set!

Notes

To ensure your casserole turns out just right, keep these tips in mind:
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and quality chicken make a significant difference in flavor. Frozen broccoli can work, but fresh is always better.
  • Adjust Cooking Time if Needed: Depending on your oven’s quirks, check for doneness. The casserole should be hot and bubbly without drying out.
  • Make Ahead: You can prepare this dish a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
  • Save Time on Cleanup: Line your casserole dish with parchment paper if you want to make cleanup easier.
  • Experiment with Cheeses: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, gouda, or a blend. It’s your kitchen—experiment away!

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 25gFat: 12gSodium: 800mgFiber: 2g
Keyword Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!