Chicken Broccoli Rice Bake

A creamy comforting casserole featuring tender chicken fresh broccoli and fluffy rice all baked together in a simple homemade sauce. Perfect for weeknights and budget-friendly family meals.

This casserole quickly became a family staple after I tried it one busy weeknight—it is simple enough for regular rotation and always vanishes fast at the dinner table.

Ingredients

• Cooked chicken breast: 2 cups diced or shredded (about 300 g)
• Broccoli florets: 2 cups fresh or frozen (about 200 g)
• Onion: 1 small finely chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves minced
• Long-grain white rice: 1 cup uncooked
• Low-sodium chicken broth: 2 cups or vegetable broth
• Condensed cream of chicken soup: 1 can (10.5 oz/300 g) or homemade equivalent
• Milk: 1 cup
• Cheddar cheese: 1 cup shredded (plus extra for topping)
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
• Dried thyme: 1/2 teaspoon optional
• Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup optional
• Melted butter: 2 tablespoons optional for topping

Instructions

Prepare oven and dish:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.

Sauté vegetables:

In a large skillet over medium heat sauté the onion in a splash of oil until soft about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.

Mix casserole ingredients:

In a large bowl combine the cooked chicken broccoli florets sautéed onion and garlic uncooked rice chicken broth condensed soup milk cheddar cheese salt pepper and thyme. Mix until well combined.

Assemble casserole:

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

Prepare topping:

If using mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole. Top with extra cheddar cheese if desired.

Bake:

Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10–15 minutes or until the rice is tender the casserole is bubbling and the top is golden.

Rest:

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Save It

My kids love helping to sprinkle the extra cheese on top before baking—it is a small memory that always makes this dish extra special in our house.

Substitutions and Variations

You can use rotisserie chicken to save time or swap brown rice for a nuttier flavor (add extra liquid and baking time). For more vegetables stir in sliced mushrooms or frozen peas before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this casserole with a fresh green salad for balance or pair with steamed asparagus. It also matches nicely with a glass of crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.

Allergen and Nutrition Info

This dish contains milk cheese and chicken. For gluten-free needs ensure your soup and bread crumbs are certified gluten-free. Each serving provides about 470 calories 19 g fat 43 g carbohydrates and 29 g protein.

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Enjoy this casserole hot and fresh—it is a comforting weeknight favorite that makes delicious leftovers too.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well and can be added directly without thawing, retaining great flavor and texture.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free condensed soup and substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free options or omit them altogether.

→ What’s a good substitute for cooked chicken breast?

Rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked poultry works well and can save preparation time.

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but increase the liquid amount slightly and extend baking time by about 20 minutes for tender results.

→ How do I get a crispy topping on this dish?

Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top before baking for a golden, crunchy finish.

→ Is this dish suitable for family weeknight dinners?

Absolutely. It’s easy to prepare, filling, and combines familiar ingredients for a comforting meal everyone will enjoy.