Imagine a dish that brings together the heartiness of Southern casseroles with a hint of global flair—enter the Broccoli Rice Chicken Cheese Bake. This comfort food classic combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and crisp broccoli, all smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce that pulls everything together like a well-traveled, comforting hug.
It’s the kind of dish you’d find in a cozy Alabama kitchen but with a versatility that could easily sit on a European bistro menu. Plus, it pairs perfectly with a refreshing Cucumber Salad or a tangy Low Carb Keto Coleslaw for a balanced meal.
The real magic here lies in the balance of textures and flavors. You’ve got the creamy richness of the cheese mingling with the bright crunch of broccoli and the savory notes of perfectly seasoned chicken. Serve it with that crisp Cucumber Salad or Low-Carb Keto Coleslaw, and you’ve got a meal that’s so satisfying.
And with just a few chef-inspired techniques—like pre-steaming the broccoli to retain its vibrant color—you’ll have a dish that looks as good as it tastes. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this bake delivers big flavors with minimal effort.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
- A Family Favorite with a Twist: I first made this dish on a whim, tweaking my grandmother’s classic casserole by adding sharper cheeses and switching to basmati rice for a fragrant, slightly nutty undertone. It’s now a regular in my kitchen, and I bet it’ll find a place in yours too.
- Perfect for Busy Weeknights: After long days, I’ve leaned on this recipe as a quick, wholesome dinner option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. It’s a one-dish wonder that satisfies without a mountain of dishes afterward.
- Flexible and Forgiving: I’ve swapped in quinoa, used leftover rotisserie chicken, and even added a dash of smoked paprika for a deeper flavor profile. This bake is as adaptable as your pantry allows.
- A Secret Weapon for Balanced Eating: Despite its creamy, indulgent vibe, this bake sneaks in a good dose of veggies and protein, making it a go-to when I’m trying to keep things healthy without feeling deprived.
- Tastes Good—Really Good: There’s something about that cheesy, golden-brown top layer that keeps me (and everyone else) coming back for seconds.
Broccoli Rice Chicken Cheese Bake Recipe
Equipment
- Sharp knife
- Oven
- Large pot
- Baking dish
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1¼ cup white long grain rice, uncooked
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, or 2 cups diced rotisserie chicken
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 10½ oz Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, uncookedSalt/Pepper, to taste
- 2½ chicken broth
Casserole Topping
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed
Optional Seasonings
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried thyme
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden on all sides, about 5 minutes.
- Set the chicken aside.
- In the same pot, combine chicken broth, olive oil, and rice.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 6 minutes.
- Add the broccoli, cover again, and cook for an additional 9 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Return the chicken to the pot, stir in cheese, and mix well.
- Transfer everything to a baking dish and bake until bubbly and golden.
- Serve and enjoy.
Notes
- Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time and skip the initial sautéing step.
- For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream before baking.
- Swap white rice for brown rice, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 511kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fibre | 1g |
| Fat | 23g |
| Protein | 33g |
| Cholesterol | 100g |
