Name: Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed; 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed); 2 cups cooked rice; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping); 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup milk; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

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There's something magical about a bubbling Broccoli Chicken Casserole fresh out of the oven. The creamy, cheesy sauce paired with tender chicken and crisp-tender broccoli makes it the ultimate comfort food.

I first made this recipe when I needed a quick and hearty dinner that could please both adults and picky kids. What started as a last-minute throw-together has become a weekly staple in our home. Trust me, this dish will earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Get ready to discover your new go-to weeknight dinner! This Broccoli Chicken Casserole isn’t just delicious – it checks all the boxes for busy families and comfort food lovers alike.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip this dish together in no time, making it perfect for those nights when you want maximum flavor with minimal effort.

It’s also great for meal prep! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and simply bake it when you’re ready to serve, saving precious minutes during busy evenings.

Best of all, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. The creamy sauce and cheesy topping are irresistible, even for picky eaters who might normally shy away from vegetables.

Whether you’re feeding a family of four or bringing a dish to a potluck, this casserole’s versatility and ease make it an absolute winner. Ready to make it yourself? Let’s dive into the ingredients!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Broccoli Chicken Casserole lies in its simple yet flavor-packed ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the dish’s irresistible texture and taste.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work beautifully. Cook and shred them ahead of time for convenience. Rotisserie chicken is also a great shortcut!
Broccoli: Fresh or frozen broccoli both work. If using fresh, steam or blanch it just until tender-crisp to avoid overcooking during baking.
Cheese: A blend of cheddar and mozzarella creates a creamy, gooey topping. Feel free to swap in Parmesan or Monterey Jack for a flavor twist.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This ingredient forms the base of the casserole’s sauce. For a lighter option, you can use cream of mushroom or a homemade version.
Rice or Pasta (optional): To make this dish heartier, add cooked rice or pasta as a base layer before adding the chicken and broccoli.

Special equipment needed: A 9x13-inch baking dish and a mixing bowl are all you need for this recipe.

How to Make This Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Creating this comforting casserole is as simple as layering the ingredients and letting the oven work its magic. Here’s how to do it:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing your baking dish. Meanwhile, cook and shred your chicken, or use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.

In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of shredded cheese, and ½ cup of milk. Stir until smooth and creamy.

If using fresh broccoli, blanch it for 2-3 minutes in boiling water, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. If using frozen broccoli, ensure it’s thawed and patted dry.

Layer the broccoli evenly in the greased baking dish. Add the shredded chicken on top, followed by the creamy sauce mixture. Use a spatula to spread the sauce so that it covers everything evenly.

Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top. For extra crunch, add a layer of buttery breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.

Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving – the wait is worth it!

Storage Options

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

Refrigerator: Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until hot and bubbly.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to get creative with variations:

Protein: Swap the chicken for turkey or ham. Leftover holiday meats are perfect for this casserole!
Vegetables: Add carrots, peas, or cauliflower for more color and texture.
Sauce: Use a cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile.
Low-carb: Skip the optional rice or pasta and add more vegetables or shredded zucchini to keep the dish low-carb.

Experimenting with new ingredients is part of the fun! Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own – every tweak brings a new twist to this classic comfort food.

There you have it – the ultimate Broccoli Chicken Casserole recipe that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. With its creamy, cheesy goodness and endless versatility, this dish is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. So grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to savor a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Happy cooking!