When the days get cooler and the evenings stretch longer, nothing quite hits the spot like a hearty casserole bubbling fresh from the oven. This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole with Knorr is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug after a long day. It’s the kind of dish you might find yourself sneaking just a little extra of while no one’s watching.
I remember the first time I made this casserole—it was one of those afternoons when my mind was halfway out the door, already dreaming of the weekend. The kitchen smelled like melted cheese and garlic, so inviting that I couldn’t help but hover near the oven, waiting for that golden crust to form. Somewhere between tasting the creamy, cheesy filling and the tender broccoli, I realized this was going to be a repeat in our dinner rotation. I might have even forgotten to set the table on time because I got distracted by how good it smelled.
Why You’ll Love It
- Comfort food that’s surprisingly simple to pull together—easy, but not boring.
- Rich flavors from the Knorr chicken seasoning make the whole dish taste homemade without extra fuss.
- It’s filling and packed with protein and veggies, so you get the best of both worlds.
- It’s simple — and that’s kind of the point. No complicated steps, just cozy vibes.
- Feeds a crowd but also reheats well, so leftovers are a win for busy days.
If you’re a bit nervous about casseroles, this one’s pretty forgiving. It doesn’t demand perfect timing or fancy equipment—just a cozy spot in your oven and a little patience while it bakes. And yes, the cheese topping gets that perfect golden finish that’s too tempting to resist.
PrintCheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole with Knorr
A comforting and easy-to-make cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole using Knorr seasoning for rich flavor. Perfect for a family dinner packed with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, creamy cheese, and fluffy rice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6
Ingredients
2 cups cooked white rice
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
3 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 packet Knorr Chicken Flavor Recipe Mix (about 1.25 ounces)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Steam the broccoli florets until just tender, about 4-5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, sautéed onion and garlic, sour cream, milk, Knorr Chicken Flavor Recipe Mix, black pepper, and salt. Stir until well combined.
Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses to the mixture and gently fold to combine, reserving 1/4 cup of cheese for topping.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
Sprinkle the reserved cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Kitchen Notes
Don’t worry if you don’t have special tools around; a good old baking dish and a skillet are all you need. Serve it up with a crisp side salad or some crusty bread to soak up any extra cheesy goodness. If you want to mix things up, I sometimes swap out sharp cheddar for pepper jack to add a little kick, or toss in some mushrooms when I have them on hand. You could even try swapping the broccoli for cauliflower if that’s more your thing—though I haven’t tested that one thoroughly, so it might change the texture a bit.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely, you can assemble it the day before and bake when ready.
Is it freezer-friendly? Yes, leftovers freeze well for up to two months.
What if I don’t have Knorr seasoning? You can use your favorite chicken bouillon or seasoning mix, but the Knorr really adds a special touch.
Can I use brown rice instead? You can, but expect a slightly chewier texture and possibly longer cooking time.
Ready to cozy up your dinner table? Give this casserole a try and see how quickly it becomes a family favorite. Don’t forget to save this recipe for those nights when comfort food is just what you need.