Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole has always been one of those dishes people come back to when they want comfort with technique behind it. When I first tested this recipe, someone asked me, “Is it really different if the sauce is homemade?” My answer was simple: absolutely. A from-scratch creamy base gives this casserole better texture, cleaner flavor, and elevates it from ordinary weeknight food to chef-level comfort. If you’re here because you want something cozy, reliable, and made with real ingredients instead of shortcuts, you’re in the right place. Let’s build flavor with intention.
Love flavorful chicken dishes? Try our Hibachi Chicken Recipe for a quick, restaurant-style meal that’s perfect alongside this creamy casserole.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is the kind of comforting meal that makes everyone at the table happy. It is creamy hearty and full of flavor which makes it perfect for busy weeknights family dinners or meal prep. The combination of tender chicken fluffy rice fresh broccoli and melted cheese creates a complete meal all in one baking dish so there is no need for multiple pots or complicated steps.
Another reason this recipe stands out is the homemade sauce. Instead of using canned soup or processed ingredients the sauce is made from scratch which gives the casserole a rich fresh and restaurant quality taste. You will have full control over seasoning texture and flavor making it even more delicious and satisfying.
This casserole is also very customizable. You can swap the type of cheese use brown rice or jasmine rice add extra veggies or make it spicier for a flavor twist. It reheats well which means leftovers are just as tasty the next day.
Whether you are cooking for picky eaters or someone craving a cozy homemade meal this casserole checks every box. It is easy filling and incredibly comforting with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this cozy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole you only need simple everyday ingredients that come together to create a creamy and satisfying meal. Each component plays an important role in building flavor and texture.
Cooked Chicken
Use shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken breast or thighs. The chicken should be tender and well seasoned for the best flavor.
Rice
Cooked white rice works perfectly because it absorbs the sauce and becomes creamy. You can also use jasmine or basmati rice if preferred.
Fresh Broccoli
Chopped fresh broccoli adds color texture and nutrients. It cooks until tender inside the casserole while still keeping a pleasant bite.
Cheddar Cheese
Sharp or medium cheddar melts beautifully and gives the casserole a rich cheesy finish. You will use part in the mixture and the rest for topping.
Milk or Cream
This creates the creamy base for the homemade sauce and helps bind everything together.
Butter and Flour
These two ingredients form a classic roux which thickens the sauce naturally without needing canned soup.
Seasonings
Salt black pepper garlic powder onion powder and paprika help balance the flavors and enhance the chicken and broccoli.
How to Make Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Making this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is simple and beginner friendly. Everything comes together in just a few steps and the result is a warm and comforting dish ready for the oven.
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to a baking temperature of 375°F or 190°C. This ensures the casserole bakes evenly and the cheese melts to a golden bubbly finish.
Cook or Prepare the Ingredients
Make sure your rice is fully cooked. Steam or lightly boil the chopped broccoli until slightly tender but not mushy. If you are using rotisserie chicken shred it and set it aside.
Make the Homemade Sauce
Place a large skillet on medium heat and melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk to form a smooth paste. Slowly pour in the milk or cream while whisking continuously. Allow the sauce to simmer until thick and silky. Season it with garlic powder onion powder paprika salt and black pepper.
Mix Everything Together
In a large bowl combine the cooked rice shredded chicken steamed broccoli half of the cheddar cheese and the warm sauce. Gently mix until everything is evenly coated.
Transfer to a Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into a lightly greased baking dish making sure it spreads evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top for a perfectly cheesy finish.
Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes or until the cheese melts and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Serve
Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set and makes scooping much easier.
If you enjoyed prepping this casserole, you’ll love our Black Pepper Chicken for another quick, flavorful chicken dinner. It’s savory, easy to make, and packed with bold flavors that your family will adore.
Sauce Technique
The key to a truly exceptional Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is the homemade sauce. Using a classic béchamel method ensures a creamy luxurious base that binds the chicken rice and broccoli together without relying on canned soup.
Create a Roux
Melt unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle in all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for one to two minutes until it forms a smooth paste and loses its raw flour taste. This step is essential for a silky smooth sauce.
Incorporate the Liquid
Slowly add warm milk or cream to the roux while whisking constantly. This prevents lumps and creates a thick and velvety texture. You want the sauce to coat the back of a spoon without being runny.
Enhance the Flavor
Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for depth. A pinch of smoked paprika brings subtle warmth while garlic-infused butter or freshly minced garlic adds an aromatic note. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Finish with Cheese
Once the sauce has thickened, fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. This adds richness and a smooth texture that will envelop the chicken and broccoli perfectly in the casserole.
Combine with Casserole Ingredients
Pour the warm sauce over the cooked rice, chicken, and broccoli, mixing gently until everything is coated evenly. This technique ensures every bite is creamy flavorful and cohesive.
Variations
This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is versatile and can be adjusted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Here are some ways to customize it:
Gluten-Free Version
Use a gluten-free flour or cornstarch to make the sauce. Ensure the rice and all seasonings are certified gluten-free for a safe alternative.
Low-Sodium Version
Choose low-sodium chicken broth and reduce added salt in the sauce. You can also use unsalted butter to keep the flavors balanced without excess sodium.
Rotisserie Chicken Version
For convenience, use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts. Adjust seasoning as needed since rotisserie chicken may already contain salt and spices.
Without Cheese
If you prefer a lighter casserole, omit the cheddar cheese and finish with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or a light layer of breadcrumbs for texture.
Brown or Wild Rice Version
Swap the white rice for brown or wild rice for added fiber and a nuttier flavor. Adjust the liquid ratio and cooking time according to the rice package instructions to ensure proper doneness.
Serving and Storage Tips
This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and special family gatherings. Serve it directly from the oven for a warm comforting meal. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a light sprinkle of extra cheddar for an elevated presentation. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the casserole.
To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool to room temperature. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through.
For freezing, assemble the casserole without baking. Wrap it securely with foil and store in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed. Adding the cheese topping during the final ten minutes of baking helps maintain a golden and crisp finish.
Following these tips ensures that each serving maintains its creamy texture and delicious flavor even after storage or reheating.
Conclusion
This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. Made with a homemade sauce, it delivers restaurant-quality taste at home. Perfect for weeknights or meal prep, it stores and reheats beautifully.
Try it, leave a comment, and share your variations. Don’t forget to save it on Pinterest or Facebook for later.
Frequently Asked Questions
What goes in chicken broccoli rice casserole?
This casserole includes cooked chicken, white rice, fresh broccoli, a creamy homemade sauce made with butter flour and milk, and shredded cheddar cheese. Optional seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme enhance the flavor. A cheese or breadcrumb topping adds texture.
Is eating chicken rice and broccoli healthy?
Yes, this combination provides a balanced meal. Chicken is a good source of protein, broccoli adds fiber and vitamins, and rice provides energy. Using a homemade sauce and controlling the cheese allows you to manage fat and sodium levels.
What is in Paula Deen’s broccoli casserole?
Paula Deen’s version typically uses canned soups, mayonnaise, and cheddar cheese mixed with broccoli. Our version is healthier and fresher with a from-scratch creamy sauce and tender chicken.
Can you cook raw chicken and broccoli in the same pan?
Yes, but timing is important. Chicken should be cooked first to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature. Broccoli can be added later to avoid overcooking and maintain texture.
Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A cozy, creamy, from-scratch Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole made with a homemade sauce for clean flavor and perfect comfort.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 3 cups cooked white rice
- 3 cups chopped fresh broccoli, lightly steamed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk or cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook rice fully and steam broccoli until slightly tender.
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour to form a smooth roux.
- Slowly pour in milk or cream while whisking continuously.
- Simmer until thickened, then season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Combine cooked rice, shredded chicken, broccoli, and half of the cheddar cheese in a large bowl.
- Pour the homemade sauce over the mixture and stir gently to coat evenly.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until hot, bubbly, and golden.
- Let rest a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For the best texture, avoid overcooking the broccoli before baking. The homemade sauce gives this casserole a cleaner, richer flavor than canned soup.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg