One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

Quick & Juicy One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

One-pot cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole represents the ultimate weeknight dinner solution for families craving hearty, satisfying meals.

Combining protein, vegetables, and grains into a single stunning skillet creates magic that elevates ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.

The harmonious blend of tender proteins, crisp vegetables, and creamy textures makes this dish irresistibly comforting.

Home cooks appreciate how quickly everything melds together without complicated preparation or multiple dirty dishes.

Nutritious and filling, this casserole delivers robust flavors that appeal to both adults and children simultaneously.

Balanced ingredients ensure a complete meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome.

Grab your favorite skillet and prepare to revolutionize dinner with minimal effort.

How to Cook Chicken Broccoli Rice All in One Pot

How to Cook Chicken Broccoli Rice All in One Pot

Step 1: Sauté Onions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.

Step 2: Cook Chicken

Season cubed chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Cook in the skillet for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken turns white and lightly golden. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Toast Rice and Garlic

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add uncooked rice and stir to coat with flavors. Toast rice for 1-2 minutes.

Step 4: Create Liquid Base

Pour in:
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup
  • Chicken broth

Mix well and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Add Broccoli and Cheese

Stir in broccoli florets and mix well. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover and let sit for 3-5 minutes until broccoli is tender and cheese melts.

Step 6: Optional Crispy Topping

Broil on high for 2-3 minutes until top turns golden brown. Remove from oven and let casserole rest briefly.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Sprinkle finely chopped fresh parsley on top. Serve hot alongside a green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

Little Tricks to Upgrade Your Chicken Broccoli Casserole

Little Tricks to Upgrade Your Chicken Broccoli Casserole
  • Maximize Flavor Absorption: Toast the rice before adding liquid to enhance its nutty taste and prevent mushiness.
  • Perfect Chicken Texture: Cut chicken into uniform cubes for even cooking and prevent overcooking.
  • Cheese Melting Trick: Let the casserole rest covered after adding cheese to create a smooth, creamy top without drying out.
  • Vegetable Crunch Technique: Add broccoli toward the end of cooking to maintain its vibrant color and slight crispness.
  • One-Pot Cleanup Magic: Use an oven-safe skillet to minimize dishes and create a seamless cooking process from stovetop to oven.

How to Store and Reheat This One Pot Wonder

  • Refrigeration: Transfer the casserole to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Seal tightly to prevent moisture loss and keep the flavors locked in.
  • Reheating in Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out, and warm for 15-20 minutes. Sprinkle a bit of extra cheese on top for added moisture and flavor.
  • Microwave Method: For quick reheating, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. Stop heating once the chicken and rice are steaming hot throughout.

What Complements Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio cuts through the creamy casserole's richness, offering a refreshing contrast that brightens each cheesy bite.
  • Serve with Zesty Side Salad: Toss mixed greens with lemon vinaigrette and fresh herbs to create a light, tangy companion that balances the dish's hearty texture and adds vibrant freshness.
  • Complement with Crusty Garlic Bread: Toasted sourdough or baguette slices rubbed with garlic butter provide a perfect crunchy element to scoop up the creamy chicken and rice mixture.
  • Choose Tangy Pickled Vegetables: Quick-pickled cucumber or carrots deliver a sharp, acidic punch that cuts through the casserole's creaminess and adds a bright, palate-cleansing dimension.

Creative Twists on This Chicken Broccoli Rice Dish

  • Spicy Southwest Chicken Rice: Swap traditional seasonings with taco seasoning, add diced green chiles, and top with pepper jack cheese for a zesty southwestern flavor profile.
  • Mediterranean Herb Chicken Skillet: Replace cheddar with crumbled feta, incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, and sprinkle oregano and basil for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
  • Creamy Mushroom Chicken Bake: Add sliced mushrooms during cooking, use cream of mushroom soup instead of chicken soup, and mix in Swiss cheese for an earthy, rich variation.
  • Lean Green Protein Bowl: Substitute chicken with grilled tofu, increase broccoli quantity, and use low-fat mozzarella to create a vegetarian, protein-packed alternative.

Why One Pot Chicken Broccoli Rice Is a Family Favorite

Why One Pot Chicken Broccoli Rice Is a Family Favorite
  • Streamline Your Cooking: This one-pot wonder eliminates multiple dishes and complicated steps, making dinner preparation a breeze for busy home cooks.
  • Comfort Food Champion: Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with tender chicken and broccoli, this casserole delivers ultimate satisfaction in every single bite with its rich, hearty flavors.
  • Nutritional Powerhouse: Packed with lean protein from chicken, fiber from broccoli, and balanced macronutrients, this meal offers a complete and wholesome dinner solution that keeps you full and energized.
  • Quick Weeknight Winner: From start to finish, this recipe takes just 30 minutes, perfect for families seeking delicious meals without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients for a Cheesy One Pot Chicken Casserole

Protein and Poultry:
  • Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that provides the main substance of the dish, best when fresh and boneless.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance chickens natural flavor.
Vegetables and Aromatics:
  • Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the base flavor of the casserole.
  • Garlic: Provides a robust, aromatic undertone to the entire dish.
  • Broccoli Florets: Nutritious green vegetable that adds color and texture.
  • Fresh Parsley: Bright garnish that adds a fresh herbal note.
Dairy and Soup Base:
  • Cream of Chicken Soup: Creates a creamy, rich base for the casserole.
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a sharp, tangy flavor.
Grains and Liquids:
  • White Rice: Hearty base that absorbs flavors and provides substance.
  • Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and enhances overall chicken flavor.
  • Olive Oil: Helps sauté vegetables and prevent sticking.
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One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe


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4.7 from 36 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Comforting One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole blends creamy textures with savory chicken and tender broccoli. Hearty ingredients meld together, creating a simple yet satisfying meal that will quickly become a family favorite for busy weeknight dinners.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein and Vegetables:

  • 2 chicken breasts (cut into small cubes)
  • 2 cups broccoli florets (cut into small, bite-sized pieces)
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 small onion (chopped)

Grains and Base:

  • 0.25 cup rice (uncooked)
  • 10 ounces (284 grams) can cream of chicken soup
  • 2 cups low sodium chicken broth

Seasonings and Finishing Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt (for seasoning chicken)
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper (for seasoning chicken)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Warm the extra virgin olive oil in a spacious cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pot over medium-high heat (around 375°F/190°C). Sauté the diced onions for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and translucent, releasing their aromatic sweetness.
  2. Season the cubed chicken breast pieces generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, ensuring each piece turns opaque white and develops a light golden exterior. Transfer the cooked chicken to a separate plate.
  3. In the same skillet, introduce minced garlic and quickly sauté for approximately 30 seconds until its fragrance permeates the kitchen. Add the uncooked long-grain white rice, stirring thoroughly to coat each grain with the existing flavors. Gently toast the rice for 1-2 minutes to enhance its nutty undertones.
  4. Carefully pour the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth into the skillet. Whisk the liquid components together until fully incorporated. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and allow the rice to simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the grains become tender and absorb most of the liquid.
  5. Incorporate the fresh broccoli florets into the rice mixture, stirring gently to distribute evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese across the surface, creating an even layer. Cover and let the casserole rest for 3-5 minutes, allowing the broccoli to steam and the cheese to melt completely.
  6. For an optional crispy finish, activate the broiler on high setting. Place the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to achieve a golden-brown top without burning.
  7. Remove the casserole from heat and let it rest briefly. Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant touch of color and additional flavor. Serve immediately alongside a crisp green salad, warm garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables.

Notes

  • Discover a comforting one-pot meal that transforms simple ingredients into a creamy, cheesy delight.
  • Perfectly cooked chicken and tender broccoli nestle into fluffy rice, creating a balanced and satisfying dinner.
  • Minimal cleanup thanks to the single-skillet cooking method, making this recipe a weeknight lifesaver.
  • Customize your casserole by swapping cheddar for monterey jack or adding rotisserie chicken for extra convenience.
  • Leftovers reheat beautifully and taste even more flavorful the next day, so make extra for quick lunches.
  • Freezer-friendly option: Prepare the entire dish, cool completely, and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 470 kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 690mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg
Julian Park

Julian Park

Co-Founder, Cuisine Researcher & Food Culture Writer

Expertise

  • Global Food Cultures & Culinary History
  • Regional Flavor Profiles & Cooking Techniques
  • Food Anthropology & Cultural Identity
  • Culinary Research & Narrative Writing
  • Street Food Traditions & Heritage Dishes

Education

The Institute of Culinary Education (ICE), Los Angeles, CA

  • Degree: Certificate in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Professional culinary techniques, global cuisine fundamentals, and real-world training in restaurant-style cooking and food presentation.

Julian Park is a natural storyteller at The Dream Café who blends hands-on culinary experience with a passion for exploring global food traditions. A graduate of The Institute of Culinary Education in Los Angeles, Julian combines professional technique with a love for cultural discovery, diving into how dishes reflect heritage, migration, and identity. 

His work spans everything from in-depth cuisine guides to reflections on everyday meals around the world. With a curious palate and a journal always close by, Julian helps readers connect with food in a way that feels so insightful and personal.

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