Broccoli chicken cheese casserole

Broccoli chicken cheese casserole

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Comfort in Every Bite : Creamy sauce, melty cheese, and hearty ingredients make this dish irresistible.
  2. Nutritious & Filling : Packed with protein from chicken, fiber from broccoli, and calcium from cheese.
  3. One-Pan Wonder : Minimal cleanup makes this recipe a lifesaver on busy days.
  4. Customizable : Add rice, pasta, or extra veggies to suit your taste.
  5. Kid-Friendly : Even picky eaters will love this cheesy, flavorful dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Serves 6–8

For the Casserole:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken , shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great!)
  • 4 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets (about 1 large head of broccoli)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for variety)
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup milk (whole milk for creaminess, or use half-and-half)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese , divided
  • 1 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping)
  • 2 tbsp melted butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli

  1. If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch it in boiling water for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain well. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and pat dry to remove excess moisture.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

  1. Add the cooked chicken and broccoli to the sauce mixture. Stir gently to coat everything evenly.
  2. Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

Step 5: Add the Topping

  1. In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the casserole for a crunchy, golden topping.

Step 6: Bake

  1. Bake for 30–35 minutes , or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.

Step 7: Serve

  1. Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or extra cheese if desired.

Why This Recipe Works

  • Cream of Chicken Base : Creates a rich, velvety sauce that ties all the ingredients together.
  • Cheese Pull Factor : Melty cheddar adds indulgence and ties the dish together.
  • Crunchy Topping : Buttered crackers or breadcrumbs add texture and flavor contrast to the creamy filling.

Variations to Try

  • Add Rice or Pasta : Stir in cooked rice, quinoa, or egg noodles for a heartier dish.
  • Spice It Up : Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for a kick of heat.
  • Gluten-Free Option : Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • Veggie Boost : Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or diced bell peppers for extra nutrition.
  • Cream Cheese Swap : Stir in 4 oz of softened cream cheese for an even creamier sauce.

Tips for Success

  • Don’t Skip the Topping : The buttery cracker or breadcrumb layer adds crunch and keeps the dish from feeling too heavy.
  • Use Rotisserie Chicken : Save time by using store-bought rotisserie chicken—it’s tender, flavorful, and ready to go.
  • Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

  • Romantic Touch : Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for elegance.
  • Brunch Staple : Serve alongside scrambled eggs or a fresh green salad for a light breakfast treat.
  • Party Platter : Pair with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a charcuterie board for variety.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Chicken Cheese Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish—a creamy, cheesy, and hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and crunchy topping, it’s a recipe that feels indulgent yet approachable. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, meal prepping, or simply craving something cozy, this casserole is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction.

Your turn! Have you ever made a broccoli chicken casserole before? Share your favorite variations or serving ideas below. 🥦

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