Air Fryer Chicken And Broccoli Casserole

This Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and wholesome ingredients—all cooked to crispy, bubbly perfection in your air fryer!

Looking for a quick and wholesome meal that’s packed with flavor? This Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli Casserole delivers comfort food vibes with in no time at all!

This casserole features tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce come together for a satisfying dish that’s ready in no time.

The air fryer ensures a perfectly golden and bubbly top without needing the oven. It’s the ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal with minimal effort.

If you love easy air fryer chicken recipes, try my recipe for Air Fryer Popeyes Fried Chicken Recipe, Air Fryer Chinese Chicken Wings or Air Fryer KFC Chicken Recipe.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Quick and easy recipe perfect for busy nights.
• Made with simple, wholesome, and flavorful ingredients.
• The air fryer ensures a golden, bubbly topping.
• Great way to enjoy chicken and fresh veggies.
• Minimal prep and cleanup for effortless cooking.
• Customizable with your favorite cheese and seasonings.
• Perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and crispy textures.

Ingredients Needed

• Olive oil: Adds a rich flavor and aids sautéing.
• Onions: Provides a savory base with aromatic flavor.
• Garlic: Enhances the dish with bold, fragrant notes.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breast: Tender, lean protein for the casserole.
• Salt: Boosts and balances all the flavors.
• Black pepper: Adds a mild kick and enhances seasoning.
• White rice: Creates a hearty and filling casserole base.
• Heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.
• Chicken broth: Keeps the casserole moist and flavorful.
• Broccoli florets: Adds freshness and a healthy veggie crunch.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Provides a cheesy, gooey, flavorful topping.
• Panko: Adds a crunchy, golden topping to the casserole.
• Butter pieces: Helps toast panko and adds extra richness.

How To Make Air Fryer Chicken And Broccoli Casserole

Step 1: Season the diced chicken with salt and black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until translucent, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 2: Add minced garlic and diced chicken to the skillet. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 3: Stir in the white rice, heavy cream, and 1 cup of chicken broth. Simmer for about 10 minutes until the rice is fully cooked.

Step 4: Add the remaining chicken broth, broccoli florets, and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook for another 10 minutes until the broccoli becomes tender.

Step 5: Transfer the mixture to a baking pan. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top and add butter pieces. Air fry at air fryer temperature at 350 degrees F, for 5-10 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown.

Air Fryer Chicken And Broccoli Casserole Recipe Tips

• Use Cooked Chicken: For quicker prep, use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken. This reduces cooking time and ensures the chicken stays tender.
• Pre-cook Rice: If you want to save time, pre-cook the rice before adding it to the skillet. This ensures it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors faster.
• Adjust Consistency: If the casserole mixture seems too thick, add a little more chicken broth or cream to get the desired consistency.
• Cheese Variety: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Add Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as you go, especially with salt and pepper, to suit your preference. A little garlic powder or onion powder can elevate the flavors.
• Don’t Overcrowd: When placing the casserole in the air fryer basket, avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking and a crispy top.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after cooking so the cheese and sauce can set and the flavors meld together.

Storing

• Storing: Store leftover Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing to maintain its texture.
• Freezing: To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through and the top is crispy again. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.

What To Serve With Air Fryer Chicken And Rice Casserole

Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli Casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to complete your meal. Serve it with a simple green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness, or pair it with garlic bread for some extra crunch and flavor. For a low-carb option, roasted cauliflower or steamed vegetables work well. If you’re in the mood for a heartier meal, consider adding mashed potatoes or a side of quinoa to soak up the creamy sauce.

Air Fryer Chicken And Rice Casserole Recipe Faqs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, you can use brown rice, but be sure to adjust the cooking time, as brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice.

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe? It’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking. If using frozen chicken, ensure it’s cooked thoroughly before adding it to the casserole.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, then refrigerate or freeze it until you’re ready to cook. Just allow extra time to cook if refrigerated.

Can I add other vegetables to the casserole? Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can use different cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor and texture.

How can I make this dish spicier? Add red pepper flakes, a pinch of cayenne, or a dash of hot sauce to give the casserole some heat.

Can I use cooked rice instead of uncooked? Yes, if you’re using cooked rice, simply reduce the amount of liquid (chicken broth and cream) since the rice won’t absorb as much.

Can I cook this in the oven instead of the air fryer? Yes, bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

• AIR FRYER STRAWBERRY MASCARPONE BRUSCHETTA
• EASY AIR FRYER FROZEN COCONUT SHRIMP
• AIR FRYER TRADER JOE’S CAULIFLOWER PANCAKES

Don’t Forget To Pin!

Share Your Creations! Are you active on Facebook? Join our Air Fryer Recipes Group, where hundreds of thousands of Air Fryer enthusiasts gather and share your photos! I’m always thrilled to see what you’ve made. For those on Instagram, don’t forget to tag me @forktospoon – I can’t wait to admire your culinary adventures!​