Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

Can this casserole be frozen?

Absolutely! To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Store in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through.

What sides go well with this casserole?

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. You could also serve it with a side of steamed green beans or a light soup for a well-rounded meal.

Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?

Certainly! To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soups and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Of course! Feel free to mix it up with your favorite cheese varieties. Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a sharp white Cheddar could add a different flavor profile to the dish.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

To keep the casserole moist, make sure to cover it with foil while baking. Removing the foil for the last 10 minutes will allow the cheese to melt and get bubbly without drying out the casserole.

Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups water
2 cups uncooked rice
1 can (10 ounces) of cream of chicken soup
1 can (10 ounces) of cream of mushroom soup
2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded
¼ cup butter
1 cup of milk
1 small white onion, finely chopped
16 ounces of broccoli pieces
2 cups of Cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions

Preparation: First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, cook the rice according to the package instructions. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked rice is the foundation of a great casserole.
Assemble the Casserole: Next, grab a 9×13-inch baking pan. Spread the cooked rice evenly at the bottom, then layer the shredded chicken on top. Add the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, butter, broccoli, and chopped onion. Give it all a good stir to mix everything well. At this point, add in one cup of shredded Cheddar cheese and mix again. This cheese will melt into the mixture, giving it a rich, creamy texture.
Bake the Casserole: Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and let it bake for 30 to 35 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. About 5 minutes before it’s done, sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded Cheddar cheese over the top. Let it bake just until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This golden layer of cheese is what makes this casserole irresistibly delicious!
Serve and Enjoy: Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes. This brief resting period helps the dish set, making it easier to serve. Pair this hearty casserole with a fresh dinner salad or some warm breadsticks for a complete meal. Serve hot and enjoy every cheesy bite!

Notes

Rice Variety: You can use any type of rice you prefer, such as brown rice or jasmine rice. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time and water ratio accordingly.
Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses can add a unique twist to this classic dish.
Vegetable Variations: Not a fan of broccoli? Swap it out for other veggies like cauliflower, spinach, or peas. This recipe is versatile, so customize it to your liking!

Author: Elina
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 420kcal
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 750mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: Chicken and Broccoli Bake, Cheesy Rice Casserole, Easy Dinner Recipe