Description
This Chicken and Broccoli Cheesy Casserole is a comforting, deliciously cheesy bake that combines tender chicken, steamed broccoli, and fluffy rice in a creamy, flavorful sauce. Perfect for a family dinner, it’s easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite toppings or ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 3 cups broccoli florets, steamed until just tender
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Topping
- ½ cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (if using cracker topping)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated and well combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top for a cheesy crust.
- Add Optional Topping: If desired, mix crushed crackers with melted butter to create a crunchy topping, then sprinkle it over the cheese layer for added texture and flavor.
- Bake: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese has melted and slightly browned.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set and make serving easier.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe and saves prep time.
- You can substitute quinoa for rice or use frozen broccoli (thawed and drained) for convenience.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture if you like a bit of heat.
