How to Make Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole
1. Preheat Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
2. Prepare the Broccoli
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Fresh broccoli: Steam or lightly boil for 3–4 minutes until bright green.
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Frozen broccoli: Thaw and drain well.
You want the broccoli tender but not mushy.
3. Build the Flavor Base
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Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
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Sauté onions until soft and fragrant.
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Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
This simple step adds huge flavor to the final casserole.
4. Mix Everything Together
In a large bowl, combine:
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cooked rice
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chicken
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sautéed onions and garlic
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broccoli
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cream of chicken soup
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milk or broth
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1 cup of shredded cheese
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seasonings
Stir until everything is evenly coated in the creamy mixture.
5. Transfer and Top
Spread the mixture evenly in your casserole dish.
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese over the top.
(If adding breadcrumbs or cracker crumbs, sprinkle them now.)
6. Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly, heated through, and lightly golden.
How to Serve It
This casserole pairs beautifully with:
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a simple green salad
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garlic bread
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roasted vegetables
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or just a cold glass of sweet tea
Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it a perfect meal-prep dish.
Tips for Casserole Success
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Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
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Don’t overcook the broccoli—you want a little bite.
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Try different cheeses:
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Sharp cheddar for bold flavor
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Monterey Jack for creaminess
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A mix of both for perfection
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Add a crunchy topping for texture—breadcrumbs or Ritz crackers tossed in butter.
Why This Recipe Stays in Your Kitchen Forever
Broccoli Rice Chicken and Cheese Casserole isn’t just another weeknight recipe—it’s a memory-maker. It’s the dish that shows up after long days, the one that comforts you when the weather turns cold, and the one family members ask for by name.
Simple, creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this casserole has all the qualities of a timeless classic. One bite, and you’ll understand why it has earned its place in kitchens everywhere.
