If you’re craving something cozy yet wholesome, the grilled chicken and broccoli rice casserole is a go-to dish that never disappoints. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug, creamy, cheesy, and full of satisfying textures, but with just enough fresh ingredients to keep it from feeling heavy.
What makes this casserole stand out is the grilled chicken. Instead of using plain boiled or baked chicken, grilling adds a smoky depth that brings more flavor to every bite. Season the chicken with simple spices like garlic, paprika, and a touch of thyme, then slice it into strips or chunks once it’s cooked and juicy.
The base of the casserole is rice, which soaks up all the creamy goodness from the sauce. You can use white or brown rice, or even a wild rice blend if you want a nutty flavor. Mix it with steamed or lightly sautéed broccoli florets for a pop of green and a mild crunch. The broccoli balances out the richness and adds some much-needed veggies to the dish.
For the sauce, go classic with a mixture of cream (or milk), shredded cheese, and a bit of chicken broth. Cheddar is the usual choice, but Monterey Jack or a sharp blend can elevate the flavor. Add in some sautéed onions or garlic for extra depth. Everything gets mixed together in a baking dish, topped with more cheese, and baked until bubbly and golden on top.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or make-ahead meals. You can prepare it the night before, refrigerate it, and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat. Leftovers also reheat beautifully and make a comforting lunch the next day.
Grilled chicken and broccoli rice casserole is the kind of meal that brings people back to the table. It’s easy, familiar, and flexible enough to tweak with different cheeses, veggies, or grains depending on what you have on hand.
Ingredients
- 2 cups chicken diced, cooked
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese grated
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp butter melted
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, and broccoli florets.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, sour cream, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the milk mixture over the chicken, rice, and broccoli mixture and stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
- In a small bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs. Sprinkle the cheese and breadcrumb mixture on top of the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition
Can I use frozen broccoli instead? Will it be the same?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just make sure to thaw and drain it first. It should turn out great!
Gr8 recipe, easy to make. I didn’t have sour cream so I used yogurt. Worked fine.
I dunno, it turned out kind of bland. Maybe needs more seasoning?
Loved this! Perfect for left overs.
Just ok. Also, I used rice that wasn’t cooked and it turned out mushy. My bad! But still not the best.
Wasn’t great 😕. I think the garlic powder overpowered it a bit. I guess we all have dif tastes.
This was an awesome recipe! My kids loved it.
I added some hot sauce and it was sooo good. Definitely a keeper!
Chicken and rice is like, a classic but sometimes too basic, y’know? Meh.
This casserole was a hit at dinner! The kids even loved it! 😊
So glad to hear the kids loved it! This is definitely going on my dinner list! 🥳
Instead of chicken, I used tofu. Still good!
I love that you used tofu! Even better for the environment. Can’t wait to try it your way!
Tofu? Really? I don’t know how that would taste. Isn’t chicken better for flavor?
Heard this is good, but I think it’s too basic. Where’s the spices? Only garlic powder? Come on people!
OMG I don’t even like broccoli, but this was actually really good! 10/10!
Just made this, but I used quinoa instead of rice. Still worked out great, I think! Not sure if that’s allowed tho.
I think I mistook onion powder for garlic powder. Oops! Still, it tasted fine, a bit funky tho!
Feels like something’s missing. Maybe more spice?
Broccoli is the worst 🤢. I used spinach instead. Might try again, but only if I wanna eat healthy.
Easy and quick! Perfect for busy weeknights. I added some hot sauce on top for a kick and it was delicious!
I tried this recipe too! It’s so easy, I can’t believe I made something this good. Adding hot sauce was a genius idea! 😋
Thought it would be better… a bit too bland for my taste. I added more spices but still felt off.
I tried this but it was sooo bland! Next time I’ll add more spices.
I actually think it’s a great base! Maybe try paprika or some cayenne for heat? Just a suggestion.
Tbh, I didn’t find it bland at all! But spicing it up sounds fun, I guess everyone has different taste.
5 stars! But where’s the secret ingredient? It needs more pizzazz!
This recipe is awesome! My kids loved it! Will make again!
Could add chicken and rice to anything and make it better. Not a fan of brocolli tho but I guess I can survive it.
I totally agree! Chicken and rice just makes everything better. Can’t wait to try this recipe, even with the broccoli!
Broccoli’s not so bad! Maybe you just need to try it different ways. I think it adds a nice crunch! 😄
Yummy! But I had leftovers, so what to do with cold casserole? 🤔
Yummmm! Perfect for dinner. Plus, it’s kind of healthy right? 😄
Absolutely! It’s a great way to sneak in those veggies. 😋
Healthy? I dunno, there’s a lotta cheese and sour cream in there. Doesn’t sound too healthy to me! 🤔
I used frozen broccoli instead and it turned out fine. Good recipe but I think it should have less cheese!
I love that you used frozen broccoli! I’ve done that before too. But less cheese? No way, more cheese is always better! 😄
Ain’t no real cook use sour cream in a casserole! LOL no thanks! #SouthernCooking
Casserole? More like a mess in my kitchen. Didn’t turn out as expected. 😒
Simple n quick! I just used what I had. No cheddar just mozerella n it was still yummy. But my kids… they loved it!
This was super easy to make! My kids loved it. Will definitely make it again!
I’m glad your kids loved it! It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies. Can’t wait to try it myself!
Too much cheese for my taste, I could barely taste anything else. Next time, less cheese!
Eh, this was okay. I prefer my broccolis raw.
I tried this but it was too bland for my taste. Maybe add more spices?
So tasty!! I added some red pepper flakes for a kick. Will def make again!
Too much milk! Casserole turned out soupy. 😒
I don’t get it, why add sour cream? 🤔 I skipped it and it was fine.
Awesome recipe! My kids ate it all up and didn’t even notice the broccoli! Sneaky healthy dinner! 😊
Gr8 recipe! I added some hot sauce for a kick. Will make again!
The best casserole ever! So creamy and delicious. Perfect for a quick dinner. 💖
Looks good but I wonder if it really is that creamy. Ain’t casseroles usually dry? 🤔
Totally agree! This casserole is a game-changer. I added some mushrooms for extra flavor, and it turned out amazing! 🍄
Sorry, this ain’t my thing. Tasted kinda bland to me.
Gotta agree with ya, it’s not the most exciting dish. Needs more spices or something.
This was so delish! My family loved it! Definitely a 5 star!
This was so good! I loved the blend of flavors and the cheese on top is just divine! Will definitely make it again!
I tried this and it was terrible! The flavors didn’t blend at all. Maybe it’s just me, but I won’t be making it again.
This dish was amazing! My family loved it, especially the cheesy top! Will definitely make again!
Is it just me or does chicken always dry out in casseroles? Mine did. 😩
Tastes delicious! I added some diced bell peppers for extra color 🌈.
I tried this recipe, but my broccoli turned mushy. What did I do wrong? I’m not sure I would make this again.
Grate cheddar? Do I have to do that? Can’t I just use the bag stuff? But it was good.
This casserole is amazing! My whole family loved it. Will definitely make again!
I don’t understand why this recipe is so popular. It was kinda bland to me. Maybe I should have added more spices?
I get what you mean! I think adding more spices could definitely help. I usually throw in a bit of paprika or cayenne for some kick!
Bland? Nah, I thought it was awesome! Maybe you just need to be more adventurous with flavors. Ever tried it with hot sauce?
Yum! I used riced cauliflower instead of normal rice. Taste great and low carb!
Delicious!! I used frozen broccoli and it worked perfectly! Easy recipe too. Thanks!
I’m glad it worked for you! Frozen broccoli is such a lifesaver. I usually use fresh, but I will try frozen next time.
Too much cheese! Yikes! I won’t make it again.
Didn’t have sour cream so I used yogurt. It turned out fine, I think. I’ll try sour cream next time.
I love broccoli rice casserole! But can’t cook chicken. Can I use tuna?
the cheese was nice. but honestly, cooking is hard and this had too many steps for me. 😩 just want fast meals!
Easy to make, but why do I have to preheat the oven? Can’t I just throw it all in at once??
You gotta preheat! It helps the casserole cook evenly. Just trust the process.
Why not just toss it in? Sounds easier but maybe it don’t bake right? 🤷♂️
Gr8 n easy for weeknight dinner. I’m not a cook, but I nailed it!
Yum! Super easy and delicious. A perfect weeknight meal!
Totally agree! It’s one of my go-to meals for busy weekdays. Love how quick it is!
Grilled chicken?? I used rotisserie chicken instead and it was fine. Still tasty!