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This broccoli chicken rice casserole is the ultimate comfort food: tender chicken, fluffy rice and pasta, and crisp-tender broccoli baked in a cheddar cheese. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.

broccoli chicken rice casserole on white plate

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The clock strikes 5 pm, your stomach starts to rumble, and the fridge looks like a barren wasteland. Takeout is tempting, but your health goals are screaming for a home-cooked solution.

Tonight, we’re turning that fridge frown upside down with a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying as it is convenient: broccoli chicken rice casserole.

This casserole dish combines the savory goodness of tender chicken, the nutritious crunch of broccoli, the creamy richness of a cheese blend, and the fulfilling touch of rice and pasta, making it a balanced, one-dish wonder. It’s also a heartwarming meal that brings back nostalgic memories of family gatherings, Sunday dinners, and the simple joy of a homemade meal.

So, whether you’re hosting a casual weeknight dinner, searching for a satisfying potluck dish, or entertaining guests for a special occasion, this dish never fails to impress.

Tired of weeknight dinner struggles? Both Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole and Broccoli Italian Sausage Bake are quick and easy meals!

Why I love this recipe

with a straightforward prep and cooking process, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the broccoli, it’s a nutritious option for any meal.
this casserole dish is a hit with both kids and adults alike, making it a perfect option for family dinners.

Ingredients

chicken broth
cream of chicken soup
Knorr cheddar broccoli rice and pasta blend
broccoli, thawed
chicken tenderloins
Cajun seasoning
paprika
salt and pepper
cheddar cheese
parsley (optional)

Step by step

broccoli chicken rice casserole before baking

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 375°F. In a 9×13 baking dish, combine the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup. Whisk until well combined.
Prepare the Base: Add both bags of Knorr cheddar broccoli rice and pasta blend to the baking dish. Stir to coat the rice and pasta in the broth mixture. Spread the thawed chopped broccoli evenly over the rice mixture.
Season and Layer: Season the chicken tenderloins with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Arrange the seasoned chicken on top of the broccoli and rice mixture in the baking dish.
Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the chicken and casserole. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the casserole is bubbly and heated through.
Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven. If desired, garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy goodness!

Tips for Best Results

Don’t overcook the broccoli florets; you want it to be tender-crisp for the best texture.
Feel free to add in any additional seasonings or herbs to customize the flavor to your liking.
Don’t skip Cajun seasoning and paprika as they give the chicken a flavorful punch.

Serving suggestion

This casserole is a meal all on its own or you can pair it with a simple side dish.

A fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or sautéed green beans seasoned with a little garlic and lemon zest can perfectly complement the flavors of the casserole. If you enjoy bread with your meal, a crusty baguette or pesto garlic bread can add a delightful crunch to the creamy textures within the casserole.

Storing tips

Leftovers can easily be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven or warm it in the microwave until heated through.

If you try this recipe please comment and rate it below, I love hearing from you!