Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Bake
This Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Bake is the kind of simple, comforting dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, broccoli, creamy chicken soup, and plenty of melted cheddar cheese come together in one casserole for a filling meal the whole family can enjoy.
With just 10 minutes of prep, this easy chicken and rice casserole is also a great way to use leftover chicken and cooked rice. Mix everything together, top it with cheese, and let the oven do the rest!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken & Broccoli Rice Bake
This easy casserole has everything you need for a simple family dinner:
- Only 10 minutes of prep
- Chicken, rice, broccoli, and cheese all in one dish
- Great way to use leftover or rotisserie chicken
- Works with fresh or frozen broccoli
- Simple, budget-friendly ingredients
- Makes 6 servings
- Easy to prepare ahead of time
- Creamy, cheesy, and family-friendly
Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Bake Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and stir until everything is evenly combined.
- Spread the chicken and rice mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese is completely melted.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is one of the easiest options for this cheesy chicken casserole. Simply remove the skin, shred the chicken, and measure out about two cups.
Leftover baked, grilled, or slow cooker chicken will work just as well. Using precooked chicken is what makes this recipe so quick to assemble.
Fresh or Frozen Broccoli?
You can use either fresh or frozen broccoli in this chicken and broccoli rice casserole.
If you’re using frozen broccoli, there’s no need to completely cook it first. Breaking larger florets into smaller, bite-sized pieces will help distribute the broccoli throughout the casserole and make it easier to serve.
What Kind of Rice Works Best?
White rice, jasmine rice, basmati rice, or brown rice can all be used as long as the rice is already cooked.
This recipe is especially convenient when you have leftover rice in the refrigerator. Just measure out two cups and add it directly to the casserole mixture.
Easy Ways to Customize This Casserole
One of the best things about a chicken and rice bake is how easy it is to adjust based on what you already have.
Try swapping the cheddar for Colby Jack or a cheddar blend. You could also add frozen peas, carrots, cauliflower, or mixed vegetables.
For a little crunch, sprinkle buttery cracker crumbs or breadcrumbs over the cheese before the final 10–15 minutes of baking.
What to Serve With Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Since this casserole already has chicken, rice, broccoli, and cheese, it works perfectly well as a complete meal on its own.
If you’d like to add something on the side, try a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, fresh fruit, or warm dinner rolls.
Can I Make It Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole as directed, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
Because the casserole will be cold when it goes into the oven, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time. Make sure the center is hot before serving.
How to Store Leftovers
Store leftover Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Individual portions can be reheated in the microwave for an easy lunch or quick dinner. If the casserole seems a little dry after refrigeration, add a small splash of chicken broth before reheating.
An Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole for Busy Nights
This Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Bake brings chicken, rice, vegetables, and plenty of melted cheddar together in one easy casserole.
It’s creamy, cheesy, filling, and requires only about 10 minutes of hands-on prep. Whether you’re using leftover chicken and rice or starting with a rotisserie chicken, it’s an easy dinner to keep in your rotation for those nights when you need something simple and satisfying.