Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting, creamy, and cheesy one-dish meal featuring tender chicken thighs, fresh broccoli, and fluffy white rice all baked together in a flavorful blend of cream of chicken soup, heavy cream, and a trio of cheeses. Seasoned with garlic, spices, and a hint of cayenne for a mild kick, this hearty casserole is perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep throughout the week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Dairy
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 5–6 chicken thighs
- 1 10.5 oz can cream of chicken with herbs
- 1 10.5 oz heavy cream (use the cream of chicken can to measure)
- 1 1/2 cup mild or medium cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/3 cup Boursin cheese
Vegetables and Rice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups broccoli florets, cooked
- 4 cups cooked white rice
Liquids and Oils
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup chicken stock
Spices and Seasonings
- 3 tbsp Bayou City all purpose seasoning, divided
- 1 tbsp Bayou City garlic pepper
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the 5-6 chicken thighs with 2 tablespoons of Bayou City all purpose seasoning and a pinch of salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Create the Sauce Base: Pour 1/4 cup chicken stock into the skillet to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits. Add the can of cream of chicken soup and heavy cream (measured using the cream soup can) to the skillet. Stir well to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add Seasonings and Cheeses: Stir in 1 tablespoon of Bayou City all purpose seasoning, 1 tablespoon Bayou City garlic pepper, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne, 1/3 cup Boursin cheese, 1/2 cup sour cream, and 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Combine with Broccoli and Rice: Add the cooked broccoli florets and cooked white rice into the sauce mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated and combined.
- Assemble in Casserole Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the chicken thighs to a large baking dish or casserole dish. Pour the broccoli, rice, and sauce mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven uncovered for about 25-30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and golden on top.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy chicken broccoli rice casserole warm.
Notes
- You can use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken as a shortcut if preferred.
- For a lower fat version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use reduced-fat cheese.
- Make sure to fully cook the broccoli before adding to the casserole to avoid a crunchy texture.
- This casserole can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated before baking; add an extra 5-10 minutes to baking time if baking chilled.
- Feel free to swap white rice for brown rice, though cooking times and liquid quantities may need adjustment.
- For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper to 1 teaspoon or garnish with hot sauce.
Keywords: chicken casserole, broccoli rice casserole, creamy chicken bake, cheesy casserole, comfort food, easy dinner