Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
A comforting and hearty Cheesy Broccoli Chicken and Rice Casserole combining tender chicken, creamy soups, fresh broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese baked to perfection. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for family dinners and features a cheesy, rich flavor with a crispy cheese topping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3 chicken breasts (cooked and shredded or cubed, about 4 cups)
- 10.5 ounces Campbell’s cream of chicken soup (1 can)
- 10.5 ounces Campbell’s cheddar cheese soup (1 can)
- 2 cups Minute rice (or quick cooking rice, uncooked)
- 12 ounces broccoli florets (frozen or fresh)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon chicken base (optional, for added flavor)
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400˚F (204˚C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the casserole.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cheddar cheese soup, shredded or cubed cooked chicken breasts, broccoli florets, uncooked rice, chicken broth, and sour cream. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the mixture evenly into a 9×13-inch baking dish, distributing the ingredients so it forms an even layer.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture while baking.
- Bake Covered: Place the casserole on the middle rack of the preheated oven. Bake covered for 40 minutes to allow the rice to cook through and flavors to meld.
- Uncover and Continue Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to help the cheese melt and the top to set.
- Optional Broil: For a crispy golden cheese crust, broil the casserole for 3-4 minutes at the end. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for color and freshness, then serve warm and enjoy your cheesy, comforting casserole!
Notes
- You can use fresh or frozen broccoli florets; if frozen, no need to thaw before mixing.
- Chicken base is optional but adds richness and boosts flavor depth.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a bit more sour cream or add extra chicken broth.
- To save time, use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken.
- Covering with foil during baking helps the rice absorb moisture without drying out.
- Broiling is optional but recommended for a crispy cheese topping.
- Feel free to substitute cheddar cheese with your favorite cheese blend.
Keywords: cheesy broccoli chicken casserole, chicken and rice casserole, easy chicken casserole, baked chicken and rice, comfort food recipe
