Creamy Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe: Family Favorite Magic

Crafting a delightful broccoli chicken casserole brings comfort and warmth to any dinner table.

Weeknight meals demand simplicity and flavor, which this recipe delivers perfectly.

Busy home cooks appreciate dishes that combine protein and vegetables effortlessly.

Creamy textures and savory notes make this casserole a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

Nutritious ingredients blend seamlessly, creating a balanced meal everyone will enjoy.

Cheese adds a golden, irresistible touch that makes each bite memorable.

You’ll fall in love with how quickly this casserole comes together in one pan.

Dig into this delicious creation and savor every satisfying spoonful.

Ingredients Used in Chicken Broccoli Casserole

• Chicken: A lean protein that provides the main substance of the casserole.

• Broccoli: A nutritious green vegetable that adds color and health benefits to the dish.

• Cream of Chicken Soup, Sour Cream, Milk: Create a creamy and rich base that holds the casserole together.
• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, Pepper: Seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

• Rice: Adds substance and helps to make the casserole more filling.

• Cheddar Cheese: Provides a sharp, melty layer of flavor on top of the casserole.
• Breadcrumbs, Butter: Create a crispy and golden crust that adds texture to the dish.

Step-by-Step Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish

Fire up your oven to a toasty 375°F (190°C).

Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a generous coating of cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Sauce

• Cream of chicken soup
• Sour cream
• Milk
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Whisk everything until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Combine the Main Ingredients

• Tender cooked chicken pieces
• Chopped broccoli florets
• Cooked rice (optional but recommended)

Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated with the luscious sauce.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

Spread the chicken and broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer that promises deliciousness in every bite.

Step 5: Add the Cheesy Topping

Sprinkle a generous handful of shredded cheddar cheese across the entire surface of the casserole.

Step 6: Create a Crispy Breadcrumb Crust

In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter until they’re perfectly coated.

Scatter this buttery mixture over the cheese layer.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes.

You’re looking for a bubbly, golden-brown top that promises irresistible flavor and texture.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes after removing from the oven.

This helps it set and makes serving easier.

Dish out generous portions and enjoy your comforting meal!

Great Tips for Creamy Chicken Casserole

• Prepare the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Simply pop it in the oven when ready to bake for a stress-free meal.
• Replace regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Experiment with different vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or mixed frozen vegetables to add more nutrition and color to the dish.
• Substitute chicken with cooked turkey, ham, or even tofu for a different protein option that keeps the casserole exciting.
• Try different cheese blends like mozzarella, pepper jack, or a sharp cheddar to customize the flavor profile and keep things interesting.

Broccoli Casserole Styles That Add Flavor

• Vegetarian Veggie Delight: Replace chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken alternative, use vegetable broth instead of cream of chicken soup for a meat-free version.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice and use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to reduce carbohydrates and add protein.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for topping, and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Swap dairy cheese with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese substitute, use coconut milk instead of regular milk, and replace sour cream with cashew cream.

What Goes Well With Chicken Broccoli Bake

• Comfort Food Companion: Pair this hearty casserole with a crisp green salad to balance the richness and add freshness.
• Family-Style Feast: Serve alongside warm dinner rolls or crusty bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce and complete the meal.
• Quick Protein Boost: Top individual servings with sliced green onions or chopped parsley for a burst of color and added nutrition that enhances the dish's flavor profile.
• Leftover Magic: Enjoy cold or reheated the next day for a convenient lunch, storing in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Keep Broccoli Chicken Casserole Tasting Fresh

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days, ensuring the casserole stays fresh and tasty.
• Transfer cooled casserole to a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months, preserving its delicious flavors.
• Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming. Add a splash of milk to maintain moisture.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just thaw and drain it well before adding to the casserole to prevent excess moisture.

• How do I ensure the chicken is properly cooked?

Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken, or cook chicken breasts until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F before adding to the casserole.

• Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to make the dish gluten-free.

• Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole earlier and refrigerate it. Just add an extra 510 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.

Why This Broccoli Chicken Casserole Shines

• Quick and Satisfying Meal: Perfect for busy families seeking a hearty dinner that comes together with minimal prep work and delivers maximum flavor in one comforting dish.
• Versatile Ingredient Swaps: Easily customize the casserole by substituting chicken with turkey, using different vegetables, or experimenting with alternative cheese types to suit dietary preferences or pantry availability.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: Combines creamy textures, savory chicken, and nutritious broccoli into a crowd-pleasing meal that appeals to both kids and adults, making it ideal for family dinners or potluck gatherings.
• Simple One-Pan Solution: Eliminates complex cooking techniques by requiring minimal dishes and offering a straightforward preparation process that even novice cooks can master with confidence.

Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe

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4.6 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty broccoli chicken casserole embodies comfort from first bite to last. Classic midwestern dish combines creamy textures with wholesome ingredients, delivering satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

Vegetables:

• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets (steamed)

Dairy and Sauce Components:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 can (10.5 ounces / 298 grams) cream of chicken soup

Starch and Base:

• 1 cup cooked rice or pasta

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Topping (Optional):

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven to 375F (190C) and coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Create a creamy sauce by whisking together cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a spacious mixing bowl.
3. Fold in the tender, chopped chicken, crisp broccoli florets, and fluffy rice, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
4. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, smoothing the surface with a spatula for an even layer.
5. Generously blanket the casserole with a layer of sharp cheddar cheese, covering the entire surface.
6. Combine breadcrumbs with melted butter in a separate bowl, then sprinkle the golden, buttery mixture over the cheese layer for a crunchy topping.
7. Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, watching for a bubbling texture and a golden-brown crust.
8. Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the dish set before serving.

Notes

• Opt for Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to reduce fat and add extra protein for a healthier twist.
• Make the dish gluten-free by substituting regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or crushed rice crackers.
• Boost vegetable content by adding extra vegetables like diced bell peppers or spinach for increased nutrition and flavor variety.
• Prep ingredients in advance and assemble the casserole quickly for a convenient weeknight meal that saves time and reduces stress.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 376 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 820 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 11 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 17 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 33 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg