Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a modern twist on a classic dish! Say goodbye to canned soups; we’re using real ingredients, and thanks to one-pot cooking, it’s prepared in the same amount of time.

Just like this famous Chicken Poppy Seed Casserole or my mother-in-law’s amazing Chicken Divan, this casserole is pure comfort food.

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole made Modern

My mom used canned cream of soups frequently growing up, so they’re completely nostalgic for me. I love any cheesy, creamy casserole especially when it includes rice, chicken, and broccoli.

Tuna Casserole was a main staple in our house, but the days we had chicken casserole? Those were a big deal, especially with nine of us to feed. Casseroles were our go-to!

So, here I am, giving the classic casserole a modern twist with a couple of fun updates:

1. One Pot Cooking: Yes, you read that right—this entire casserole comes together in one pot in 30 minutes or less!
2. No Canned Soups: Ever wonder what’s really in those cans? We’re skipping them completely. And don’t worry, there’s no complex cream sauce required—just a few simple ingredients and minimal extra effort.
3. Skipping the Ritz Topping: Although cracker toppings are delicious, they can be messy. I’ll let you in on how to add them if you’re interested, but here’s how I make this casserole most of the time—without them.

What Is Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole?

This casserole combines rice, chicken, and broccoli in a cheesy cream sauce, usually finished with cheese and sometimes a crunchy topping.

This particular recipe is made from scratch, but trust me when I say, you will not miss the canned soups here!

What Rice to Use

This recipe uses long-grain white rice or basmati rice. Avoid short or medium grain rice; they get too sticky. And minute rice? It doesn’t work well in this dish.

Got brown or wild rice? This recipe is not their time to shine. They need more time and water to cook. Stick to using them for something like my go-to Brown Rice Salad instead.

Can I Use Frozen Broccoli?

Sure thing! Fresh broccoli, chopped into small florets, is my preference, but if you’re reaching for frozen, just make sure it’s completely thawed first. Also, shake off any extra water – nobody wants soggy, mushy rice.

Using Rotisserie Chicken

Chicken breasts are great, but if you’re short on time or just have some rotisserie chicken on hand, it’ll work here. Toss in about 2 cups of diced, seasoned chicken right at the end with the cheese. Bonus: any leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for whipping up some tasty Rotisserie Chicken Tacos – always a hit!

Other Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Ingredients

• Onion & Garlic: Finely dice an onion to avoid crunchy pieces and sauté with garlic in butter for a flavorful base.
• Cream Sauce: The sauce is so simple to make! It starts with flour for thickening, milk (whole is my favorite) for creaminess, chicken broth to balance, and a few seasonings for added flavor.

What About A Ritz Cracker Topping?

In my house, we often skip the topping, but if you’re in the mood for some extra crunch, here’s how to make it happen:

• Mix 3/4 cup of crushed Ritz crackers or Panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• Heat the butter in a saucepan over medium-high, then add the breadcrumbs. Stir constantly until they turn a light brown. Sprinkle this crunchy mix over the cheese layer evenly.

How To Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

These steps match the accompanying photos for easy follow-along:

1. Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pan and cook the chicken over high heat until it’s fully cooked.
2. Finish Chicken: After cooking, remove the chicken from the pan, cover to let it rest, then dice it.
3. Sauté Veggies: Melt butter in the same pan and sauté the onion and garlic until they turn golden.
4. Sauté Rice: Stir in the rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
5. Add Seasonings & Flour: Add flour and seasonings, stirring constantly for another minute to cook off the raw flour taste.
6. Make Creamy Base: Whisk in milk and broth gradually, ensuring the mixture is completely smooth.
7. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cover.
8. Cook: Continue cooking until the rice is almost tender. It will still appear quite saucy.
9. Add Broccoli: Place broccoli on top of the rice, then cover again.
10. Steam: Allow the broccoli to steam until tender. Smaller pieces cook quicker and are easier to eat.
11. Combine: Off the heat, add the cheese and diced chicken, stirring gently to combine.
12. Serve: Finish with the remaining cheese, cover to melt. Once the cheese is melted, it’s ready to enjoy!

What To Serve with Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole:

Pair your chicken and rice casserole with some delicious sides to round out the meal:

• Everyday Salad: Toss some greens with your favorite dressing and whatever veggies you’ve got lingering in the fridge.
• Caesar Salad: This is a classic that always pairs well with a hearty casserole.
• Roasted Veggies: Yes, we’ve already got broccoli, but more is more when it comes to veggies, right?!
• Dinner Rolls: Perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.
• Tropical Fruit Salad: Finish with something sweet and fresh!

Customizing Your Chicken and Rice Casserole

• Adding Extras: Feel free to mix in mushrooms, peas, carrots or any other favorites you have.
• Proteins: Swap out chicken for turkey, ham, or even tuna for a different flavor. Cooked and crumbled bacon can add a savory crunch.
• Sour Cream Addition: You can mix in a bit of sour cream for extra tanginess if you like, but since the cream sauce is already rich and creamy, you might not even need it.

More One Pot Recipes You’ll Love:

• One Pot Spaghetti with ground beef
• One Pot Burrito Bowls with the best seasoning blend
• Taco Spaghetti made with enchilada sauce
• Chicken Orzo with loads of veggies
• Sausage, Corn, & Spinach Orzo with a creamy base