Name: Ultimate Comfort: Easy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Adds richness and helps sauté onions.); 1 medium Yellow Onion, diced (Provides flavor and sweetness to the sauce.); 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour (Thickens the sauce, contributing to desired creaminess.); 2 cups Unsalted Chicken Broth (Acts as the base for the sauce, enhancing chicken flavor.); 1 cup Half and Half (Adds creaminess and depth to the sauce; substitute with milk for a lighter version.); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Enhances overall flavor.); 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adds mild heat and depth.); 1 cup Colby Jack Cheese, freshly grated; 0.5 cup Mayonnaise (optional) (Ensures a smooth, homogenous cheese topping; omit for a lighter option.); 3 cups Steamed White Rice (Serves as the base, absorbing flavors and providing substance; use brown rice for added fiber.); 2 cups Steamed Broccoli florets (Adds nutrients and color, enhancing the dish’s appeal; use frozen broccoli as a quick alternative.); 2 cups Cooked, Shredded Chicken (Provides protein and heartiness; use store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience.); 1 cup Corn Flakes, crushed (Adds a crunchy topping for texture contrast.)

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After a long day juggling work and family schedules, I often find myself yearning for something cozy and satisfying—a dish that wraps you in warmth like a favorite blanket. That’s when my Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole comes to the rescue! This comforting meal combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and fluffy rice, all enveloped in a creamy sauce and topped with a crunchy Cornflake layer. It’s a dish that whispers ‘home’ with every bite, making it perfect for family dinners or a special gathering with friends.

You won’t believe how effortlessly this casserole comes together, especially if you opt for rotisserie chicken or instant rice. It’s a versatile recipe that takes the stress out of cooking while still delivering that rich, indulgent flavor that everyone craves. Whether you’re dealing with picky eaters or simply want to delight your loved ones, this casserole is sure to please. Join me in the kitchen, and let’s whip up a comforting classic that will become a staple on your dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

Comforting Blend of Flavors: This casserole blends creamy cheese, tender chicken, and crispy broccoli, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug.
Time-Saving Options: Use rotisserie chicken or instant rice for a quick, stress-free meal prep.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s family-friendly and caters to picky eaters, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Versatile Ingredients: Substitute with brown rice or different veggies to suit your preferences. You could also check out our tips on how to elevate your casserole with a simple side salad for a balanced meal.
Easy Cleanup: With all ingredients combining in one dish, you’ll spend less time cleaning up and more time enjoying dinner together!

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Ingredients

• Gather everything you need for this comforting Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole.

For the Sauce

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and helps sauté onions.
Yellow Onion, diced – Provides flavor and sweetness to the sauce.
All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the sauce, contributing to desired creaminess.
Unsalted Chicken Broth – Acts as the base for the sauce, enhancing chicken flavor.
Half and Half – Adds creaminess and depth to the sauce; substitute with milk for a lighter version.
Kosher Salt – Enhances overall flavor.
Black Pepper – Adds mild heat and depth.
Colby Jack Cheese, freshly grated – Melts beautifully, creating a gooey texture in the casserole; substitute with cheddar for a sharper flavor.
Mayonnaise (optional) – Ensures a smooth, homogenous cheese topping; omit for a lighter option.

For the Casserole

Steamed White Rice – Serves as the base, absorbing flavors and providing substance; use brown rice for added fiber.
Steamed Broccoli florets – Adds nutrients and color, enhancing the dish’s appeal; use frozen broccoli as a quick alternative.
Cooked, Shredded Chicken – Provides protein and heartiness; use store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience.

For the Topping

Corn Flakes, crushed – Adds a crunchy topping for texture contrast.

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Preheat oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a casserole dish. This step ensures your casserole cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the dish.
Sauté onions: In a sauté pan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Look for a translucent texture, which adds a lovely sweetness to your sauce.
Make the roux: Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the softened onions, stirring for 1 minute. This creates a roux that will thicken your sauce beautifully.
Add broth: Gradually whisk in 2 cups of unsalted chicken broth. Stir continuously to avoid lumps, and let it come to a simmer. Watch for thickening, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
Stir in cream: Incorporate 1 cup of half and half, along with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently until it’s creamy and thickened to your liking.
Mix cheese and mayo: In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of freshly grated Colby Jack cheese with ½ cup of mayonnaise (if using). Stir well and set aside for the topping.
Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, blend together 3 cups of steamed white rice, 2 cups of steamed broccoli florets, and 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken. Pour the creamy sauce over this mixture and mix until everything is well combined.
Assemble the casserole: Transfer the combined mixture into your greased baking dish. Evenly top with the reserved cheese and the crushed Corn Flakes, ensuring a delightful crunch on every bite.
Bake it up: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After that, uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the top to turn golden and crispy.
Serve & enjoy: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. This resting period helps set the layers and makes serving easier!

Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Variations

Feel free to explore creative twists that will make this comforting dish your own!

Cauliflower Rice: Swap out white rice for cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative that still packs flavor.
Veggie Boost: Add chopped bell peppers or spinach to boost nutrition and bring extra color to the dish.
Turkey Twist: Substitute shredded chicken for turkey for a delicious twist that works equally well and is perfect for leftovers.
Spicy Kick: Mix in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a delightful heat that complements the creaminess.
Herbal Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or parsley before baking for an aromatic lift and added freshness.
Creamy Swap: Use cream cheese instead of half and half for a thicker, richer sauce that indulgently coats every bite.
Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella for a mild taste or pepper jack for a spicy cheese fusion.
Nutty Crunch: For added flavor, sprinkle some toasted almond slivers or sunflower seeds on top before serving to provide both a nutritious boost and delightful crunch.

What to Serve with Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

To create the perfect meal around this comforting casserole, consider these delicious side options that will enhance your dining experience.

Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette balances the rich flavors of the casserole and adds a refreshing crunch.
Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is a delightful addition that invites you to scoop up every last bite of the casserole. Its savory flavor pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted carrots and bell peppers bring a delightful sweetness and vibrant color, complementing the dish while adding nutritional variety.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For an ultra-comforting meal, serve mashed potatoes as a side. Their creamy texture harmonizes wonderfully with the casserole’s richness.
Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a fresh, slightly grassy flavor that cuts through the creaminess, making for an enticing contrast.
Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad with seasonal berries and melons offers a refreshing sweetness that cleanses the palate between bites.
Homemade Applesauce: Sweet and slightly spiced, applesauce brings a warm, homey flavor that complements the casserole’s savory notes, perfect for a family-friendly meal.
A Glass of Iced Tea: This refreshing drink, whether sweetened or unsweetened, cools down the richness of the casserole, making it an ideal companion for your dinner.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: Finish off the meal with warm chocolate chip cookies. Their gooey sweetness is sure to delight everyone and make your dinner unforgettable!

Expert Tips for Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Broccoli Precaution: Avoid overcooking the broccoli before adding it to the casserole; this helps maintain its vibrant color and crisp texture.

• Smooth Sauce: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth to create a smooth sauce; adding too quickly may result in lumps.

• Fresh Cheese Win: For the creamiest casserole, opt for freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties, as the latter may not melt as well.

• Crispy Topping: If preparing ahead, bake the casserole without the Corn Flakes initially; add them just before serving to ensure maximum crunch.

• Storage Tip: This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen without the topping for longer storage.

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole options are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy homemade comfort food without the fuss! You can prep the entire casserole filling (excluding the Corn Flakes) up to 3 days in advance; simply assemble your rice, broccoli, and chicken mixture with the creamy sauce, then store it covered in the refrigerator. To maintain the casserole’s quality, avoid adding the crushed Corn Flakes until just before baking to keep them crispy. Once you’re ready to serve, simply top with Corn Flakes, cover, and bake for the recommended time. Trust me, this delicious dish will taste just as fresh and comforting!

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Fridge: Refrigerate leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover it to maintain its creamy texture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole (without the Corn Flake topping) for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s well-wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes. Add Corn Flakes just before serving for that perfect crunch.

Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole in advance and store it in the fridge, then simply bake it when you’re ready to serve!

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right broccoli for my casserole?
Absolutely! Look for broccoli florets that are bright green and firm, avoiding any with yellowing or dark spots. Fresh broccoli will give your casserole a nice crunch and vibrant color. If you choose frozen broccoli, ensure it’s from a reputable brand, as frozen veggies can be just as nutritious and are often convenient for quick meals.

What is the best way to store leftover casserole?
Very! You can refrigerate leftover Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover it tightly to maintain its creamy texture. Reheating is a breeze—just pop it in the oven or microwave, but I recommend oven reheating for a better texture.

Can I freeze Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?
Yes, indeed! For freezing, ensure that the casserole is prepared without the Corn Flake topping. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or store it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw the casserole in the fridge overnight before baking.

How can I prevent my casserole from being too dry when reheating?
Great question! To enhance moisture, place a small dish of water in the oven while reheating, or cover the dish with foil to keep the steam in. This method ensures that your casserole retains its creamy consistency rather than becoming dry.

Can I substitute any ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you’re catering to dietary needs, consider using gluten-free flour for thickening or opting for low-fat dairy products. You can also replace the chicken with turkey or a plant-based protein, and if dairy is an issue, non-dairy alternatives like almond milk and vegan cheese work wonderfully!

Is this casserole safe for my pets?
Not at all! It’s best to avoid sharing this casserole with pets, especially due to ingredients like onion and garlic, which can be harmful to them. Always stick to pet-safe food options.