Name: Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole (Under 30 Minutes)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed); 3 cups cooked rice (white or brown); 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed or fresh); 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 0.5 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt); 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded, plus extra for topping); 0.5 cup milk; 1 tbsp olive oil or butter; 0.5 tsp garlic powder; 0.5 tsp onion powder; salt and pepper (to taste); fresh parsley (for garnish); extra cheese (for topping)

Few things beat the comfort of a warm casserole, especially when it comes together in under 30 minutes. The Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole is one of those recipes you’ll turn to on busy nights when you crave something hearty, creamy, and full of flavor. With tender chicken, fluffy rice, crisp-tender broccoli, and gooey melted cheese, this casserole ticks all the boxes of a family-friendly, weeknight meal.

Unlike many casseroles that require long baking times, this version comes together quickly on the stovetop with the help of cooked rice and chicken. It’s a dish that balances convenience and comfort without sacrificing flavor.

Why This Casserole Works

Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, using pantry staples.
One-Pan Wonder: Cook everything in a single skillet, then finish in the oven (optional).
Kid-Friendly: Cheesy, creamy, and filled with familiar flavors.
Customizable: Swap chicken for turkey, rice for quinoa, or add extra veggies.
Meal Prep Friendly: Keeps well for reheating, making it a great leftover dish.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
3 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or steamed)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or homemade equivalent)
½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
½ cup milk
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Salt & pepper to taste

Optional Garnish:

Fresh parsley
Extra cheese for broiling

Instructions

Prepare chicken & rice: Use pre-cooked chicken and rice to save time. Shred or cube chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Cook broccoli: Steam or blanch broccoli florets until just tender, about 3–4 minutes.
Make the creamy base: In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter. Stir in cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Combine ingredients: Add chicken, rice, and broccoli into the skillet. Stir until evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
Add cheese: Mix in 1 cup shredded cheddar until melted and creamy.
Finish (optional): Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle extra cheese on top, and broil for 3–4 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy hot.

Tips for Success

Rice Hack: Use microwaveable rice packs for faster prep.
Homemade Cream Sauce: Swap canned soup with a quick roux of butter, flour, broth, and milk.
Cheese Upgrade: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses for different flavors.
Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms, peas, or spinach for extra nutrients.
Make Ahead: Assemble casserole ahead of time and bake when ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp green salad to balance the richness.
Serve with garlic bread for extra comfort.
Portion leftovers into meal prep containers for easy lunches.