Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe

There's nothing quite like the smell of Broccoli Chicken Casserole baking in the oven, filling your home with a comforting, savory aroma. This hearty dish brings together tender chicken, perfectly cooked broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce all baked to bubbly, golden perfection.

this Recipe

The first time I made this casserole, I was searching for an easy yet wholesome meal to serve my family. Since then, it has become one of our most beloved weeknight dinners, gracing our table regularly and always disappearing fast.

Get ready to dive into a dish that’s sure to become a new favorite in your meal rotation.

Why You'll Love This Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite casserole. This Broccoli Chicken Casserole isn't just delicious – it checks all the boxes for a perfect family meal.

First off, it's incredibly simple to make. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a busy parent looking for a quick weeknight option, this casserole comes together effortlessly. With just 20 minutes of prep and an easy-to-follow process, you’ll have dinner in the oven in no time.

This dish is wonderfully budget-friendly. Made with wholesome, everyday ingredients like chicken, broccoli, and cheese, it won’t break the bank. Feeding a family of four for less than what you’d spend on takeout is a win-win situation.

Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some extra veggies. Even picky eaters will find it hard to resist tender broccoli florets coated in a rich, cheesy sauce. It's a fantastic meal to satisfy kids and adults alike.

Finally, this casserole is perfect for meal prepping. Make it ahead of time, freeze it for later, or save leftovers for the next day – it's a meal that keeps on giving.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Broccoli Chicken Casserole lies in its simple, yet carefully selected ingredients. Each one plays a role in delivering that creamy, comforting flavor.

Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner protein option. Cut them into bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly and stay juicy. Alternatively, you could use shredded rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time.

Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets work beautifully here, adding a pop of color and texture. Chop the florets into small, manageable pieces. If you only have frozen broccoli, that works too – just be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is a must for that bold, cheesy flavor. Grate it yourself for the best melting quality. Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can affect the creaminess of the sauce.

Cream of Chicken Soup: This is the secret to a silky, creamy base. You can use a store-bought can or make your own for a more homemade feel. For a lighter version, low-sodium options are a great choice.

Rice: Long-grain white rice is my go-to for this recipe. It cooks up fluffy and absorbs the flavors of the casserole beautifully. If you prefer brown rice, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio.

You won’t need any fancy equipment to make this casserole, just a large mixing bowl, a 9x13-inch baking dish, and a sharp knife for chopping.

How To Make This Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Creating this delicious Broccoli Chicken Casserole is easier than you might think. Here's a simple guide to help you get started.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While the oven heats, bring a large pot of water to a boil and add a generous pinch of salt. Blanch your broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and just start to soften. Drain and set them aside.

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add your diced chicken pieces. Season with a bit of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink. Set the chicken aside.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, blanched broccoli, 1 can of cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything well until the ingredients are evenly coated in the creamy sauce.

Transfer the mixture to your prepared 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with an additional ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese for a golden, bubbly finish. If you love a crunchy topping, you can also sprinkle on crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle. Your casserole should be creamy, hearty, and utterly irresistible.

Storage Options

This Broccoli Chicken Casserole stores beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.

To store, let the casserole cool completely. Then, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, thaw the frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or heat individual portions in the microwave for a quick meal.

Variations and Substitutions

This casserole is incredibly versatile, so don’t be afraid to make it your own!

If you’re looking to add more veggies, try stirring in some diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or even baby spinach. The extra vegetables add more nutrition and texture to the dish.

For a twist on the cheese, experiment with different varieties like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Mixing cheeses can give the casserole a more complex flavor profile.

If rice isn’t your thing, you can swap it for cooked pasta like penne or rotini. The pasta will soak up the creamy sauce just as well, creating a comforting pasta bake that’s just as satisfying.

For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream and opt for low-fat cheese. You’ll still get a creamy, flavorful casserole with fewer calories.

Feel free to experiment and have fun with this recipe. No matter how you customize it, this Broccoli Chicken Casserole is sure to be a hit with your family and friends!

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