Easy Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe

This Easy Chicken & Rice Casserole delivers pure, cheesy comfort in a single baking dish. With tender shredded chicken, fluffy seasoned rice, vibrant broccoli, and a golden, bubbly layer of cheddar, this easy chicken and rice casserole makes weeknight family dinners completely effortless.

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 30 minutes

• Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced

• 3 cups cooked white or brown long-grain rice

• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped bite-sized and lightly steamed

• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1/2 cup whole milk or low-sodium chicken broth

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded (divided)

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

• 1/2 cup buttery cracker crumbs or panko breadcrumbs

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• Fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.

2. Whisk the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk (or chicken broth), garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until completely smooth and combined.

3. Fold the Base: Stir in the shredded cooked chicken, cooked rice, steamed broccoli florets, and 1½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. Gently fold everything together until evenly coated in the sauce mixture.

4. Assemble: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth out the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the surface.

5. Add the Crunchy Topping: In a small bowl, toss the cracker crumbs (or panko) with the melted butter. Scatter the crumb mixture across the cheese layer.

6. Bake: Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the sauce is actively bubbling along the edges and the cheese topping is melted and lightly browned.

7. Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 to 10 minutes so the casserole sets slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before scooping onto plates.