Crispy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Crispy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is the ultimate better-than-takeout dinner. After making this many times, I’ve discovered the trick to a perfectly crispy topping. Keep reading for my best tips. If you love recipes like this, you’ll also enjoy Try this easy side dish and Start your meal with this crispy appetizer.
Why This Crispy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Is Pure Comfort
- Crispy golden topping
- Creamy cheese sauce
- Easy, one-pan meal
What You'll Need for Crispy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Choosing the right ingredients makes a big difference, but this recipe is forgiving enough to work with what you have.
- chicken breasts
- broccoli florets
- long grain rice
- sharp cheddar cheese
- onion powder
- garlic powder
- salt
- black pepper
- chicken broth
- milk
- Optional: breadcrumbs
- Optional: parmesan cheese
📝 Ingredient Notes
- chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless
- broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen
🛒 Tools & Equipment I Recommend
- Instant Pot — Saves time and energy → See on Amazon
- Food processor — Makes prep work quick → See on Amazon
How to Make Crispy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2: Cook rice according to package instructions.
- Step 3: Cook chicken and broccoli in a large skillet until chicken is cooked through and broccoli is tender.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, mix together milk, chicken broth, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Step 5: Combine cooked rice, chicken, broccoli, and cheese sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Stir well to combine.
- Step 6: Top with breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
Cook's Tips for Perfect Crispy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
- : Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Common mistake and fix: If your casserole is too watery, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the cheese sauce before adding it to the casserole.
- : For a healthier version, use whole wheat rice and low-fat milk.
Storing & Reheating Crispy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Short-Term Storage
Store in an airtight container in the fridge. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make-ahead tip: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
Freezing Crispy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.
How to Reheat Without Drying It Out
Oven: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes. Microwave: Reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.
Recipe Notes
- Chef tip: For extra flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- Best substitution: You can substitute the chicken with turkey or shrimp.
- Make-ahead: See storage notes for make-ahead tips.
- Scaling: This recipe can be easily doubled or halved.
- Troubleshooting: If the topping isn't crispy enough, broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes.
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Crispy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- chicken breasts
- broccoli florets
- long grain rice
- sharp cheddar cheese
Seasonings
- onion powder
- garlic powder
- salt
- black pepper
- chicken broth
- milk
Optional Toppings
- breadcrumbs
- parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2: Cook rice according to package instructions.
- Step 3: Cook chicken and broccoli in a large skillet until chicken is cooked through and broccoli is tender.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, mix together milk, chicken broth, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Step 5: Combine cooked rice, chicken, broccoli, and cheese sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Stir well to combine.
- Step 6: Top with breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
Notes
- Chef tip: For extra flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- Best substitution: You can substitute the chicken with turkey or shrimp.
- Make-ahead: See storage notes for make-ahead tips.
- Scaling: This recipe can be easily doubled or halved.
- Troubleshooting: If the topping isn't crispy enough, broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Storage
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.
- Oven reheat: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave reheat: Reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.
- Make ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
Nutrition Per Serving
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sat. Fat: 9g
Nutritional values are estimates only. Actual values may vary by brand and portion size.
Crispy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole FAQs
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
If your casserole is too watery, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the cheese sauce before adding it to the casserole.
Yes, you can freeze individual portions of this casserole for up to 2 months.
No, this recipe is not suitable for the air fryer.
Yes, this casserole is a healthier and more affordable alternative to takeout.
A Warm Final Note
I can’t wait for you to try Crispy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole and see how effortlessly it comes together. When you make it, pop back here and leave a rating or share how it turned out — I love hearing from you!
