Cheesy Chicken, Rice & Broccoli Bake

This cheesy chicken, rice & broccoli bake is the ultimate comfort combo—protein, veggies, carbs, and creamy sauce all in one dish. It’s simple: toss, cook, melt cheese, and enjoy. Below I walk you through why this one’s a winner, ingredients, instructions, tips, FAQs, and a cozy wrap-up.

Why This Bake Belongs in Your Rotation

All-in-One Comfort

You don’t need multiple pots or steps—everything goes into the crockpot, and you get a hearty, satisfying meal without fuss. It’s a comfort food dream come true.

This dish pairs well with a side salad or a light dessert so that the richness of the bake doesn’t overwhelm.

Balance of Flavors & Textures

Broccoli adds freshness and crunch, chicken brings protein, rice gives body, and the cheesy, creamy sauce ties it all together. The baked cheese crust on top seals in the comfort.

Plus, cooking slowly helps the flavors meld, and the cheese layer develops warmth and appeal.

Ingredients

Gather these for about 4–6 servings:

Ingredient	Quantity
Cooked rice	2 cups
Cooked chicken breast, shredded	2 cups
Broccoli florets, lightly steamed	2 cups
Cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)	1 can
Milk	1 cup
Shredded cheddar cheese	1½ cups
Garlic powder	½ tsp
Onion powder	½ tsp
Salt & pepper, to taste	—

Step‑by‑Step Instructions

1. Add cooked rice, shredded chicken, and steamed broccoli into your crockpot.

2. Pour in the cream of chicken soup and milk. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.

3. Cover and cook on LOW for 3–4 hours until heated through and bubbling.

4. About 15 minutes before you’re done, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, then cover again to let it melt.

5. Once cheese is melted and the edges are bubbling, serve hot.

Tips, Variations & Serving Ideas

Make It Lighter or Dairy‑Free

Use low-fat milk or a non-dairy milk. Swap the cream of chicken soup for a lighter version or a plant-based alternative. Use vegan cheese.

Flavor Boosters & Texture Options

Add a pinch of smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, or herbs like parsley or thyme. Stir in cooked corn or peas for more variety. A crunchy topping of breadcrumbs or nuts adds contrast. You can also transfer everything into a baking dish at the end and broil a minute for a golden cheese crust.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the rice get too soggy?

If your rice is well-cooked but not mushy, it holds up well in this bake. Avoid overcooking beforehand to prevent sogginess.

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of steamed?

Yes—but steam it slightly before adding so it finishes perfectly rather than staying crisp raw.

Is this gluten‑free?

Check that your cream of chicken soup and other ingredients are gluten-free. Everything else is naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

This cheesy chicken, rice & broccoli bake is comfort food made simple. It’s creamy, hearty, and perfect for days when you want warmth without fuss. Stir, cook, add cheese, and dig in to a cozy, satisfying meal.

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