Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice and Velveeta Cheese Casserole

A Cozy Dish Passed Down Through Generations

There’s something inherently comforting about a casserole—especially one bubbling with melted cheese, tender chicken, and wholesome vegetables. This chicken broccoli rice and Velveeta cheese casserole was a weeknight staple in my grandmother’s kitchen. She’d whip it up with whatever she had on hand, but it always came out perfect—gooey, golden, and filled with love. This version stays true to her method while adding a few touches of my own.

Whether it’s summer and you’re feeding a crowd after a day at the lake, or winter, and you’re curled up for a family movie night, this casserole delivers hearty flavor and easy preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

One-dish wonder: All your protein, veggies, and starch in one baking dish.
Kid-friendly: Velveeta adds creamy cheesiness that little ones love.
Freezer-friendly: Make ahead and freeze for stress-free meals.
Customizable: Swap veggies or use leftover chicken.

Ingredients (Serves 5)

2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
2 cups cooked white rice (can use brown rice for extra fiber)
2 cups chopped broccoli (fresh or frozen, steamed)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
1 cup milk
8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup shredded cheddar (optional, for topping)
1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping)
2 tbsp butter (melted, for topping)

chicken broccoli rice and velveeta cheese casserole

Prep Time, Cook Time, and Storage

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days; freeze up to 2 months.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Combine the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, and steamed broccoli.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk.
Add Velveeta cubes and stir until melted and smooth.
Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

Pour the cheese sauce over the chicken-rice-broccoli mixture.
Stir until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish.

Step 6: Add Toppings

In a small bowl, mix melted butter with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar (if using) on top of the casserole.
Top with buttery crumbs.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

Detailed Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare:

Set oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease your casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.

2. Steam Broccoli:

Lightly steam until just tender, about 3-4 minutes. You want them vibrant and slightly firm.

3. Make the Cheese Sauce:

Heat soup and milk in a saucepan.
Add Velveeta cubes and stir until fully melted.
Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

4. Mix the Base:

In a large bowl, combine chicken, rice, and broccoli.
Pour the cheese sauce over the mixture and stir well.

5. Assemble and Top:

Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish.
Sprinkle cheddar cheese over top, followed by buttery cracker crumbs.

6. Bake:

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until golden and bubbly.

7. Cool and Serve:

- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps everything set.

Make-Ahead & Freezer Tips

To make ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
To freeze: Wrap unbaked casserole tightly in foil and plastic wrap; label and freeze. Bake from frozen at 350°F for 60–70 minutes, or thaw overnight for faster cooking.

Variations and Additions

Add a crunch: Mix in water chestnuts or top with French fried onions.
Spicy twist: Stir in a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
Go green: Swap broccoli with peas, spinach, or a mixed veggie medley.
Protein swap: Use shredded rotisserie chicken, ground turkey, or even canned tuna.

Pairing Suggestions

This creamy casserole pairs beautifully with:

A crisp green salad (like arugula or romaine with a citrus vinaigrette)
Roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts
A light white wine (Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc)
Iced tea or homemade lemonade in the summer
Hot apple cider in the winter

Nutrition Information (Approx. per serving)

Calories: 480
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 850mg

Why Velveeta Works So Well

Velveeta cheese has a signature smooth, melt-in-your-mouth consistency that’s hard to beat. Unlike shredded cheese that can break or clump, Velveeta transforms into a creamy sauce that binds the dish together beautifully.

My Grandma’s Tip

“Always steam the broccoli lightly before mixing it in—otherwise, it can turn too soft or watery in the oven.” She was right. Steamed just until bright green, the broccoli stays vibrant and flavorful.

A Family Favorite for Every Season

Every bite of this chicken broccoli rice and Velveeta cheese casserole brings me back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen. I still remember how she’d hum her favorite tune while layering everything in her old ceramic baking dish. This recipe is more than just food—it’s a hug in casserole form. Whether you’re whipping it up on a lazy Sunday afternoon or serving it at a potluck, this dish has a way of bringing people together.

What Makes This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole So Special?

The answer is simple: Velveeta cheese. Its silky texture binds everything into a creamy, comforting bite. Paired with the wholesome goodness of rice, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli, it’s the casserole that checks all the boxes:

Effortless to make
Hearty and filling
Loved by both kids and adults
Flexible with ingredients and easy to customize

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

9×13-inch casserole dish
Mixing bowls
Saucepan
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Steamer (optional, for broccoli)

How to Serve This Dish

This casserole is incredibly versatile. Here are a few serving suggestions:

As a main dish: With a crisp Caesar or garden salad.
For brunch: Pair it with fruit salad and a mimosa.
At potlucks or family gatherings: Serve warm with dinner rolls or garlic bread.
As meal prep: Portion into containers for lunch or dinner during the week.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Fridge: Store in airtight containers.
Freezer: Wrap individual portions tightly and label with date.
Reheat: Microwave for 2–3 minutes or warm in oven at 325°F until heated through.

Make It a Meal: What to Serve Alongside

Here are some great pairings:

Honey glazed carrots
Roasted green beans with almonds
Classic cornbread or soft dinner rolls
Cucumber tomato salad in summer
Butternut squash soup in winter

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 480
Protein: 28g
Carbs: 38g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 850mg

Tips for a Perfect Casserole Every Time

Steam veggies slightly first: Prevents sogginess.
Use day-old rice: It absorbs the cheese sauce better.
Let it rest: Always wait a few minutes before serving to help it firm up.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use fresh chicken instead of pre-cooked?
Yes! Just bake, poach, or pan-fry your chicken before adding it to the casserole.

Can I make this dairy-free?
It’s tough because Velveeta is the star, but you could try a dairy-free cheese sauce alternative and almond or oat milk.

How long will leftovers keep?
Up to 4 days in the refrigerator. You can also freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely. Use a larger baking dish or two smaller ones.