There’s something so comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole, especially when it comes together in just one pot! This One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken, flavorful rice, and nutritious broccoli. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug in a bowl—perfect for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying but don’t want to deal with a sink full of dishes.

This dish is a childhood favorite for many, bringing back memories of family dinners around the table. It’s the kind of meal that kids and adults alike can’t resist—cheesy, hearty, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite seasonings or cheese varieties.

Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner option, a meal prep favorite, or a cozy dish to warm up a chilly evening, this one-pot wonder has you covered!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Magic – Less mess, fewer dishes, and maximum flavor. Everything cooks together, making cleanup a breeze!
• Cheesy & Comforting – With gooey cheddar and mozzarella, this dish is irresistibly creamy.
• Wholesome & Satisfying – Packed with lean chicken and nutritious broccoli, it’s a balanced meal all in one.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – This casserole stores well, making it a great make-ahead meal for the week.
• Kid-Friendly – Even picky eaters love this cheesy, flavorful dish!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup heavy cream or milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

How to Make One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, then season it with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is lightly golden on the outside and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot (don’t clean it—you want all that flavor!), add the diced onion and minced garlic. Stir and let them cook for about 2 minutes, just until they become soft and fragrant. The onion should turn slightly translucent, releasing a delicious aroma that fills your kitchen.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Now, stir in the uncooked white rice, coating it in the onion and garlic mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and give everything a good stir. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb all the flavors while becoming soft and fluffy.

Step 4: Add the Broccoli & Chicken

Once the rice has mostly cooked, add the chopped broccoli and the cooked chicken back into the pot. Stir everything together, cover again, and let it cook for another 5 minutes. This extra time ensures that the broccoli becomes perfectly tender while still maintaining a bit of crunch.

Step 5: Make It Extra Cheesy

Time for the best part—making it cheesy and creamy! Stir in the butter, heavy cream (or milk), shredded cheddar, and mozzarella cheese. Keep stirring until everything melts together into a creamy, cheesy mixture. The sauce should coat the chicken, rice, and broccoli beautifully, creating an irresistibly rich texture.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Once everything is melted and creamy, remove the pot from heat and serve immediately. You can sprinkle some extra cheese on top or even add a little fresh parsley for a pop of color. Dig in while it’s warm, and enjoy every cheesy bite!

Helpful Tips

• Use Brown Rice – If you prefer brown rice, you can swap it in! Just add an extra 10 minutes of cooking time, as it takes longer to soften.
• Spice It Up – Want a little kick? Swap the cheddar for pepper jack or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Extra Creamy Option – If you love ultra-creamy casseroles, use an extra ¼ cup of heavy cream or milk.
• Crispy Topping Idea – For a crispy, golden topping, sprinkle some extra cheese on top and broil it for 2-3 minutes before serving.
• More Veggies? Yes, Please! – Feel free to toss in extra vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers for added nutrition.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4-6 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: One-Pot
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Kid-Friendly

Notes

• You can easily double this recipe to feed a larger crowd or to have leftovers for the next day.
• Store-bought rotisserie chicken can be used instead of fresh chicken to make this dish even quicker.
• If you prefer a richer flavor, you can use a mix of sharp cheddar and gouda cheese.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~400 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Calcium: 20% DV

(Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes! You can use frozen broccoli instead of fresh. Just add it during the last 3-4 minutes of cooking so it doesn’t overcook and become mushy.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

No problem! You can substitute it with regular milk, half-and-half, or even plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

How do I make this dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, use a plant-based butter alternative and swap the cheese for a dairy-free option like nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese blend. Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream.

Can I make this in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat it on the stove with a splash of broth or milk to bring back the creamy texture.

Storage Instructio

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Warm it up on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a little milk or broth to maintain the creaminess. You can also microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Related Recipes

If you loved this cheesy, cozy dish, you might also enjoy:

• Hearty Beef Enchilada Casserole with Rice
• Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Rice Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food
• Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Conclusion

This One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is everything you want in a comforting meal—simple, creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Best of all, it’s made in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a cozy, homemade dinner, this dish is a perfect choice.

Try it out and let me know how it turns out—I’d love to hear what you think! Happy cooking!

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