Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Name: Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cubed; 1 tbsp avocado oil; garlic salt; black pepper; garlic powder; onion powder; Dano’s Italiano seasoning; 2 packets Knorr Broccoli Cheddar Rice; 1 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup; 1 can chicken broth; 1 bag frozen broccoli florets; 1 8 oz bag shredded cheddar cheese

Few casseroles check every box quite like a pan full of cheesy rice, tender chicken, broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese bubbling straight from the oven.

Everything gets mixed together in a single casserole dish before baking, allowing the rice to absorb all the flavor from the broth, cream of chicken soup, seasonings, and chicken as it cooks. The broccoli softens perfectly while the cheddar cheese melts into every corner of the dish.

Using Broccoli Cheddar Rice packets makes this recipe incredibly simple while still delivering that classic homemade casserole flavor people grew up eating. Every bite is creamy, cheesy, hearty, and packed with comforting flavor.

Large scoops served straight from the baking dish, gooey melted cheese on top, and perfectly cooked rice underneath make this the kind of dinner that quickly becomes part of the regular meal rotation.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Everything bakes together in one casserole dish.
Creamy cheesy comfort food packed with flavor.
Easy weeknight dinner with simple ingredients.
Loaded with chicken, broccoli, and cheesy rice.
Perfect make-ahead family meal.

Ingredients

This recipe combines chicken breast, broccoli cheddar rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, frozen broccoli, and cheddar cheese into an easy baked casserole. As everything cooks together, the rice absorbs the liquid while the chicken stays tender and flavorful throughout the dish.

The cream of chicken soup creates a creamy texture while the cheddar cheese adds richness and helps bring all of the ingredients together into a hearty family-friendly casserole.

1 lb chicken breast, cubed
1 tbsp avocado oil
Garlic salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Garlic powder, to taste
Onion powder, to taste
Dano’s Italiano seasoning, to taste
2 packets Knorr Broccoli Cheddar Rice
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
1 can chicken broth (use the empty soup can to measure)
1 bag frozen broccoli florets
1 (8 oz) bag shredded cheddar cheese

How To Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F.

Step 2: Add Chicken to Bowl

Add the cubed chicken breast to a large bowl.

Step 3: Season Chicken

Season with garlic salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Dano’s Italiano seasoning.

Step 4: Add Oil

Add the avocado oil and mix until the chicken is evenly coated.

Step 5: Add Rice

Add the Knorr Broccoli Cheddar Rice packets to a casserole dish.

Step 6: Add Soup

Add the cream of chicken soup.

Step 7: Add Broth

Fill the empty soup can with chicken broth and pour it into the dish.

Step 8: Add Chicken and Broccoli

Add the seasoned chicken and frozen broccoli florets.

Step 9: Mix Together

Mix everything together until well combined.

Step 10: Add Cheese

Top evenly with the shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 11: Bake Covered

Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.

Step 12: Finish Baking

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes.

Step 13: Serve

Serve hot and enjoy.

Recipe Variations

Adding cooked bacon introduces a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheesy rice and broccoli. Crispy bacon mixed throughout the casserole also adds extra texture and makes the dish even more satisfying.
Using rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken can save time and add additional flavor. Simply shred the chicken and mix it directly into the casserole before baking.
Pepper jack cheese can be substituted for cheddar if you want a little heat. The creamy texture stays the same while adding a subtle spicy kick throughout the casserole.
Extra vegetables such as mushrooms, corn, or diced bell peppers can be mixed into the casserole to create more variety and make the dish even heartier.
A crunchy topping made from crushed crackers or buttery breadcrumbs can be added during the final few minutes of baking. This creates a crispy texture contrast against the creamy rice and cheese underneath.

Tips for Success

Cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces so it cooks consistently.
Keep the casserole tightly covered during the first bake to help the rice cook properly.
Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for the smoothest melt.
Stir thoroughly before adding the cheese to distribute ingredients evenly.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Add extra cheddar cheese on top if you prefer an even cheesier casserole.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen broccoli?

Yes, fresh broccoli works perfectly in this recipe. Simply cut it into bite-sized florets before adding it to the casserole. Fresh broccoli may stay slightly firmer than frozen broccoli after baking, which some people actually prefer for added texture.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the entire casserole ahead of time, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. If baking straight from the refrigerator, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The casserole reheats well in both the microwave and oven, making it great for meal prep and easy lunches throughout the week.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes very well. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping tightly and storing in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat until hot throughout.

Can I use a different cheese?

Definitely. While cheddar cheese complements the broccoli cheddar rice perfectly, Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses can all be substituted depending on your personal taste preferences.