Broccoli Chicken Cheese Casserole

This Broccoli Chicken Cheese Casserole is a comforting, creamy, and cheesy dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. Packed with tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce, this casserole is easy to make and can be customized to fit different dietary preferences.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Servings: 6

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)

3 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets

2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option)

1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

½ cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or homemade)

½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

½ cup milk (or chicken broth for extra flavor)

½ tsp garlic powder

½ tsp onion powder

½ tsp paprika

½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

¼ tsp black pepper

1 tbsp butter (for greasing the dish)

For the Crispy Topping (Optional):

½ cup crushed Ritz crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or crushed cornflakes

2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli

If using fresh broccoli, blanch it in boiling water for 2 minutes, then drain and set aside.

If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain excess water before using.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, cooked rice, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

2. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and mix well.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

2. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese and ½ cup of mozzarella cheese over the top.

Step 5: Add the Crispy Topping (Optional)

In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers (or breadcrumbs) with melted butter.

Sprinkle evenly over the casserole for a crunchy texture.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.

2. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.

Step 7: Serve

Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy as a standalone dish or with a side salad!

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving)

Calories: ~400-450

Protein: ~30g

Carbohydrates: ~30g

Fats: ~18g

Fiber: ~3g

Sodium: ~600mg (varies depending on ingredients used)

(Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

Cooking Notes & Tips

Make It Healthier: Use brown rice, whole wheat breadcrumbs, and reduced-fat cheese.

Low-Carb Option: Substitute rice with riced cauliflower or omit it entirely.

Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free cheese, coconut milk, and a dairy-free cream soup alternative.

Extra Flavor: Add cooked bacon, sauteed mushrooms, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for spice.

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Freezing: Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for about 50-60 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken adds great flavor and saves time.

3. What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?

You can make a quick homemade version using:

2 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp flour

1 cup chicken broth

½ cup milk

Cook until thickened, then use as a replacement.

4. How do I make it extra cheesy?

Mix in a little cream cheese or Velveeta for a richer texture.

5. What side dishes pair well with this casserole?

A fresh salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement it perfectly.