Quick One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

Comfort food lovers rejoice with this creamy one pot cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole that promises pure deliciousness in every single bite.

Weeknight dinners just got a whole lot easier and more satisfying.

This recipe combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and melted cheese into a single, hearty dish that feels like a warm hug.

Busy home cooks will appreciate how quickly this meal comes together with minimal cleanup required.

The rich, cheesy sauce coats perfectly cooked rice and juicy chicken pieces, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

No need to dirty multiple pans or spend hours in the kitchen.

Let’s find out this irresistible casserole that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Calories: 405 kcal

Servings: 5

One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Ingredients

• Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that adds hearty texture and rich flavor, choose fresh, boneless cuts for easy preparation.
• Olive Oil: Helps brown chicken and prevents sticking, select extra virgin for best taste and health benefits.

• Garlic, Onion: Provide deep, savory undertones that enhance overall dish complexity, use fresh cloves and firm onions for maximum flavor.

• Rice, Broccoli Florets: Create satisfying, wholesome base with complementary textures, pick medium-grain rice and crisp, bright green broccoli for best results.

• Cream of Chicken Soup, Chicken Broth: Develop rich, silky sauce that connects ingredients, choose low-sodium options to control salt levels.
• Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully, adding sharp, tangy notes and creamy consistency, select sharp variety for more intense flavor.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Fundamental seasonings that elevate natural ingredient flavors, use freshly ground pepper for extra zest.
• Fresh Parsley: Bright, fresh garnish that adds color and subtle herbal undertone, chop just before serving for maximum vibrancy.

Equipment to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Casserole

• Large skillet or oven-safe pot: Essential for cooking every step of the dish, from sautéing onions to finishing the casserole.
• Cutting board: Perfect for chopping onions, chicken, and parsley with ease.
• Chef's knife: Sharp and reliable for precise ingredient preparation.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Helps stir and mix ingredients smoothly.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate rice, broth, and soup quantities.
• Cheese grater: Optional for freshly grating cheddar cheese if desired.
• Broiler or oven: Needed for final golden-brown cheese topping.

How to Cook Chicken Broccoli Rice in One Pot

• Skillet Prep

Heat olive oil in a large skillet, sizzling onions until they become soft and glassy. The kitchen will start smelling amazing.

• Chicken Magic

Season chicken pieces and cook them until they turn a beautiful golden color. Let them rest while you continue creating your delicious meal.

• Flavor Foundation

Quickly toast fragrant garlic and rice together, allowing the grains to become lightly toasted and absorb all the delicious aromatics swirling in the pan.

• Liquid Transformation

Pour in creamy soup and savory broth, letting everything simmer and meld together. The rice will slowly become tender and absorb all the rich flavors.

• Veggie and Cheese Finale

Fold in bright green broccoli and sprinkle a generous layer of melty cheese on top. Cover and let the ingredients get to know each other, creating a harmonious dish that promises comfort.

• Serving Celebration

Garnish with fresh herbs and bring this warm, cheesy creation to the table. Pair with a crisp salad or crusty bread for a complete meal that feels like a warm hug.

Tips for Creamy Cheesy Chicken Rice Casserole

• Chop all ingredients beforehand and store in containers for quick weeknight dinner assembly.
• Swap chicken with turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or lean ground beef for varied protein options.
• Replace broccoli with cauliflower, asparagus, or mixed frozen vegetable blends for different nutrient profiles and flavors.
• Experiment with different cheese varieties like monterey jack, pepper jack, or gruyere to create unique taste experiences and add excitement to the classic recipe.
• Enhance the dish's flavor by adding red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or dried herbs like thyme and oregano for a personalized touch that elevates the entire casserole.

How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Family Feast Night Companion: Pair this hearty casserole with a crisp garden salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the rich, creamy flavors.
• Protein Power Plate: Add grilled or roasted chicken on the side for extra protein, perfect for athletes or those wanting a more substantial meal.
• Comfort Food Elevation: Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs or crushed buttery crackers on top before broiling to create a delightful crunchy texture that complements the creamy casserole.
• Weekend Meal Prep Magic: Cook an extra batch and portion into individual containers for quick, grab-and-go lunches during busy weekdays, ensuring a delicious and convenient meal solution.

Storage Advice for One Pot Chicken Casserole

• Smart Batch Cooking: Prepare double the recipe and portion out extra servings for quick weeknight meals. Refrigerated portions stay delicious for 3-4 days, making busy schedules easier to manage.
• Freezer-Friendly Strategy: Cool the casserole completely before transferring to airtight containers. Freeze up to 2 months for convenient future meals. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
• Ingredient Prep Hack: Chop chicken, onions, and broccoli in advance to streamline cooking process. Store prepped ingredients in sealed containers inside the refrigerator for up to 2 days, reducing day-of preparation time.
• Leftover Transformation: Repurpose remaining casserole by adding it to tortillas for quick chicken burritos, mixing into a frittata, or using as a topping for crispy baked potatoes. These creative twists prevent food waste and keep meals exciting.

Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

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4.6 from 22 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Hearty one pot cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole blends creamy textures with comforting flavors from classic American kitchens. Families will savor each cheesy, satisfying bite of this simple weeknight dinner classic.

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Ingredients

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• 2 chicken breasts (cut into small cubes)
• 2 cups broccoli florets (cut into small, bite-sized pieces)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 10 oz (284 g) cream of chicken soup (canned)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 small onion (chopped)
• ¼ cup rice (uncooked)
• 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ¼ tsp salt (for seasoning chicken)
• ¼ tsp black pepper (for seasoning chicken)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Flavor Foundation: Heat olive oil in a spacious cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté onions until soft and translucent, releasing their aromatic sweetness.
2. Protein Preparation: Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Cook until opaque and lightly golden, then set aside on a separate plate.
3. Aromatic Integration: Quickly sauté minced garlic, then introduce uncooked rice. Toast rice for 1-2 minutes to develop rich, nutty undertones and maximize flavor potential.
4. Liquid Transformation: Pour cream of chicken soup and chicken broth into the skillet. Whisk thoroughly, bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Simmer covered, allowing rice to become tender and absorb liquid completely.
5. Vegetable and Cheese Fusion: Gently fold broccoli florets into the rice mixture. Blanket the top with shredded cheddar cheese, covering evenly. Allow to rest briefly, ensuring broccoli steams and cheese melts seamlessly.
6. Optional Finishing Touch: If desired, activate broiler on high. Position skillet under intense heat for 2-3 minutes to create a golden, crispy surface.
7. Serving Presentation: Let casserole rest momentarily. Sprinkle fresh parsley for vibrant color and added complexity. Serve immediately with complementary side dishes.

Notes

• Prep Ahead Strategy: Dice chicken and chop vegetables in advance to streamline cooking process and reduce overall preparation time.
• Rice Texture Tip: Use long-grain white rice for best results, ensuring each grain remains separate and fluffy during cooking.
• Cheese Melting Hack: Shred cheese freshly for superior melting quality and more even distribution throughout the casserole.
• Flavor Enhancement: Toast rice briefly before adding liquid to develop deeper, nuttier undertones and improve overall dish complexity.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 405
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 33 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg