Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole Recipe

This Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole is one of those dishes that brings people together. It’s hearty, flavorful, and simple enough to whip up even on a busy weeknight.

The best part? It’s incredibly versatile. You can make it with leftover chicken, use frozen broccoli, or even prepare it ahead of time for an easy family dinner that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Why This Recipe Works

This casserole has the perfect mix of textures and flavors: juicy chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce that ties everything together. It’s satisfying but not heavy, cheesy but not overwhelming.

What I love most about this dish is how adaptable it is. I’ve made it countless times — sometimes with rice, sometimes with pasta, sometimes even low-carb without either. It always comes out comforting, flavorful, and perfectly golden on top.

If you’re craving something cozy but don’t want to fuss with too many steps, this is the recipe for you.

Ingredients 

(Serves 6)

For the casserole:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie works great)
• 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, lightly steamed)
• 2 cups cooked rice or pasta (optional but recommended for a heartier dish)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced

For the sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups milk (whole or 2%)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Topping (optional but delicious):

• ½ cup breadcrumbs mixed with 1 tablespoon melted butter
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Prep the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

If you’re using fresh broccoli, steam it for about 3–4 minutes until just tender. If using frozen, thaw and drain it well.

Cook the rice or pasta if you’re adding it, and have your chicken ready to go — shredded rotisserie chicken saves tons of time here.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.

Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant. This step adds depth and gives your casserole that “homemade” flavor that shortcuts can’t replicate.

Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly — this forms the base of your sauce.

Gradually pour in the milk and chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Keep whisking until the sauce starts to thicken, about 3–5 minutes.

Turn the heat to low and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce turns smooth and glossy.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed — it should be creamy and full of flavor.

Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, broccoli, and rice (or pasta, if using). Pour the cheese sauce over the top and stir gently until everything is evenly coated.

The mixture should be creamy but not soupy — if it feels too thick, add a splash of milk or broth.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into your prepared casserole dish and spread it evenly.

If you’re making the breadcrumb topping, mix the breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan in a small bowl. Sprinkle it over the casserole for that irresistible golden crunch.

If you prefer a softer, cheesier top, skip the breadcrumbs and sprinkle on some extra shredded cheese instead.

Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, until it’s hot throughout and the top is golden brown.

You’ll know it’s perfect when the edges start bubbling and the top has that mouthwatering golden crust.

Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving — it’ll set slightly, making it easier to scoop and serve.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve this casserole warm, right from the oven. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread.

The creamy sauce, melted cheese, and tender broccoli make each bite satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that makes you pause mid-meal and smile a little — classic comfort food that never goes out of style.

My Best Tips for Success

1. Pre-cook the broccoli. This keeps it from releasing water into the casserole while baking.
2. Use rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds great flavor.
3. Don’t skip the roux. That flour-and-butter step is key to a smooth, creamy sauce.
4. Mix cheeses. A blend of cheddar for sharpness and mozzarella for meltiness creates the perfect texture.
5. Make it ahead. You can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead and bake when ready — just add 10 extra minutes of baking time.

Storage and Reheating

This casserole stores beautifully, which makes it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

• Refrigerate: Keep in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave or bake covered at 350°F (175°C) until hot.

It’s just as delicious the next day — maybe even better, as the flavors meld together overnight.

Why This Recipe Always Works

It’s simple, flexible, and foolproof. The creamy cheese sauce binds everything together, the broccoli adds freshness, and the chicken makes it filling enough for a full meal.

It’s one of those dishes you can make on autopilot — no fancy ingredients, no complicated techniques — and still impress everyone at the table.

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or a cozy weekend meal, this casserole always delivers comfort in every bite.

Related Questions

1. Can I Use Frozen Broccoli?

Yes, absolutely. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry with paper towels to avoid extra water in your casserole.

2. Can I Substitute the Cheese?

Of course! Cheddar is classic, but you can use Gouda, Gruyère, or Colby Jack for different flavors. Just choose something that melts well.

A Classic Dish That Never Disappoints

This Chicken Broccoli Cheese Casserole is everything you want in a comforting homemade meal — rich, creamy, and full of flavor. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day, something that brings everyone to the table with a smile.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s one of those recipes that makes you feel proud to serve it — simple ingredients, big comfort, and flavors that never go out of style.

So grab your favorite baking dish and get ready to create the kind of dinner that feels like home every single time.