Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is a comforting, all-in-one dish that brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, and crisp broccoli, all smothered in a creamy cheddar cheese sauce. It’s easy to make, loaded with flavor, and perfect for any weeknight dinner or family gathering.

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love making Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice because it’s such a simple yet satisfying meal. The combination of the tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and the freshness of broccoli makes every bite delicious. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while still enjoying a cheesy, comforting dish. It’s hearty enough to be a main course, and it’s the perfect dish for a cozy family meal. The best part? It’s all made in one baking dish, so cleanup is a breeze!

Ingredients

For the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice:

1 cup long-grain rice (I usually use basmati or jasmine because they cook up nice and fluffy)
2 cups chicken broth (this adds so much flavor to the rice)
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces; you can also use leftover cooked chicken)
1 large head of broccoli (cut into florets)
1/2 cup butter (unsalted, for the best flavor)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour (to thicken the sauce)
3 cups milk (whole milk makes the sauce extra creamy, but you can use 2% if you prefer. I’ve even tested this with almond milk, and it made it even creamier!)
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar gives it the best cheesy flavor!)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (adds a little extra something-something)
1/4 teaspoon salt (to enhance the flavors)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground, for the best taste)

(HERE’S A TIP: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat & Prep Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice from sticking and make cleanup easier.
Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and chicken broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff it with a fork. I always let it sit for a few minutes after it’s cooked to let the steam work its magic.
Steam the Broccoli: While the rice is cooking, steam the broccoli florets until they are tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. You can steam them in a steamer basket over boiling water or microwave them with a little water in a microwave-safe bowl. Just be careful not to overcook them; you want them to still have a little bite.
Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, cook the chicken pieces over medium heat until they are cooked through and no longer pink. Remove from the heat and set aside. If you’re using leftover chicken, skip this step.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth. If the sauce gets too thick, just add a splash more milk and whisk until it reaches your desired consistency.
Combine Everything: In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, cooked chicken, and cheese. Stir gently to combine. Make sure everything is evenly distributed so you get a little bit of everything in each bite.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve & Enjoy: Serve the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice hot and enjoy! It’s great on its own, or you can pair it with a light side salad or some garlic bread.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe serves 6.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

Chicken Variations: If you want a different protein, you could easily swap out the chicken for turkey or even shrimp.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken altogether and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, peppers, or even peas.
Cheese Variations: While I love using sharp cheddar, you could try different cheese blends such as mozzarella or a combination of cheddar and gouda for an extra creamy texture.
Add Spice: For a little kick, you could add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If it’s a bit dry, you can add a splash of milk before reheating to restore some creaminess.

FAQs

1. Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Leftover chicken works perfectly. Just skip the step where you cook the chicken and add it directly to the casserole.

2. How can I make a smoother cheese sauce?

To make a smooth cheese sauce, be sure to whisk constantly as you gradually add the milk to the roux. If the sauce becomes lumpy, continue to whisk and add a bit more milk to loosen it up.

3. What do I do if the sauce is too thick?

If your cheese sauce becomes too thick, simply add a little more milk and whisk until it reaches your desired consistency.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it before baking. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed. It may need a few extra minutes to bake if it’s chilled.

5. What are some good side dishes to serve with this casserole?

This dish is hearty on its own, but you can serve it with a light side salad, steamed vegetables, or even some garlic bread for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice is an easy, comforting dish that combines everything I love in one bite—tender chicken, cheesy sauce, and wholesome rice and broccoli. Whether I’m making it for a busy weeknight or serving it for a family gathering, it’s always a hit. It’s a meal that’s not only delicious but also versatile and simple to make.