The Perfect Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe for Cozy Nights

Crafting a delightful broccoli chicken casserole brings comfort and joy to your dinner table.

Weeknight meals demand something special that satisfies hunger and delights taste buds.

Home cooks often seek simple yet delicious recipes that everyone will love.

Layers of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and creamy sauce create a perfect harmony of flavors.

Nutritious ingredients combine to make a hearty dish that feels like a warm hug.

Cheese adds a golden, melty touch that makes this casserole irresistible.

You’ll want to savor every single bite of this crowd-pleasing meal that comes together in just minutes.

Pairing Ideas For Broccoli Chicken Casserole

• Family Feast Night: Serve this comforting casserole as the star of your weekly family dinner, paired with warm dinner rolls and a crisp green salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.
• Potluck Party Pleaser: Bring this crowd-pleasing dish to your next community gathering or potluck. Its cheesy, creamy texture and golden cracker topping will make it disappear quickly from the buffet table.
• Meal Prep Champion: Divide the casserole into individual portions for easy weekday lunches. Store in airtight containers and reheat for a quick, satisfying meal that saves time and tastes delicious.
• Healthy Twist Option: Swap regular crackers for whole wheat breadcrumbs and add extra vegetables like cauliflower or carrots to boost the nutritional value while keeping the comforting flavors intact.

Broccoli Chicken Casserole Storage Tips

• Refrigerate leftover broccoli chicken casserole in an airtight container within 2 hours after cooking.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and food safety.
• Use shallow containers to help the casserole cool quickly and prevent bacterial growth.
• Label the container with the date of preparation to track storage time.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

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

• Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?

Substitute low-fat cream of chicken soup, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, and opt for reduced-fat cheese to lower calories and fat content.

• What type of chicken works best for this casserole?

Rotisserie chicken, leftover grilled chicken, or boiled chicken breasts are all excellent options. Shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

• Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole without the cracker topping, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the cracker topping just before baking.

Comfort In Broccoli Chicken Casserole

• Savor Wholesome Comfort: Packed with tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and creamy cheese, this casserole delivers a satisfying meal that nourishes both body and soul.
• Breeze Through Preparation: Minimal ingredients and simple steps make this recipe perfect for busy home cooks who want a delicious dinner without complicated techniques.
• Crowd-Pleasing Perfection: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, crunchy topping and hearty combination of protein and vegetables, making it ideal for family dinners or potluck gatherings.
• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients like different crackers, add extra seasonings, or include alternative vegetables to match your taste preferences and pantry staples.

Ingredients To Make Broccoli Chicken Casserole

• Chicken: Cooked chicken provides the primary protein source for this hearty casserole.

• Broccoli Florets: Fresh broccoli adds nutritious green color and crisp texture to the dish.

• Cream of Chicken Soup, Mayonnaise: These ingredients create a rich and smooth sauce that binds the casserole together.

• Cheddar Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Sharp cheddar and nutty Parmesan add depth of flavor and creamy richness.

• Garlic Powder, Salt, Black Pepper: These spices enhance the overall taste profile of the casserole.

• Ritz Crackers, Butter: Crushed crackers provide a crunchy golden topping that adds texture and flavor.

How To Bake Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up the Cooking Space

Fire up your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C) and lovingly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with a light layer of grease to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create a Creamy Flavor Explosion

• Cream of chicken soup
• Mayonnaise
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Whisk these ingredients together until they become a smooth, magical mixture that promises deliciousness.

Step 3: Bring the Stars Together

Introduce your cooked chicken and fresh broccoli florets to the creamy sauce. Gently stir everything until each piece is beautifully coated with the cheesy goodness.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking Magic

Pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly like a delicious blanket.

Step 5: Add the Crunchy Topping

Crush some Ritz crackers and mix them with melted butter.

Sprinkle this golden, crispy topping across the casserole for an extra layer of yumminess.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven and let it cook for 25-30 minutes.

You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and the edges start bubbling with excitement.

Step 7: Serve and Savor

Pull out your masterpiece and let it rest for a few minutes.

The anticipation will make the first bite even more incredible. Dig in and enjoy your comforting broccoli chicken casserole!

Enhancing Flavors In Broccoli Chicken Casserole

• Swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-packed version of the casserole.
• Ensure broccoli is not overcooked to maintain a crisp texture and vibrant green color.
• Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and convenient protein option that adds extra flavor.
• Replace Ritz crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs for a celiac-friendly alternative.
• Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to boost the casserole's aromatic profile and nutritional value.

Alternate Versions Of Broccoli Chicken Casserole

• Vegetarian Protein Swap: Replace chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, cubed and pan-fried for extra flavor and protein.
• Low-Carb Crunch Topper: Substitute Ritz crackers with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly breadcrumb alternative.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free cream of mushroom soup, nutritional yeast instead of cheese, and coconut milk-based mayonnaise for lactose-intolerant individuals.
• Mediterranean Herb Transformation: Add oregano, basil, and sun-dried tomatoes to give the casserole a Mediterranean-inspired profile with bright, fresh flavors.

Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe

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4.9 from 40 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty broccoli chicken casserole delivers comfort on a plate with creamy textures and robust flavors. Family dinners become memorable when you gather around this nourishing, classic American dish.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed

Vegetables:

• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets

Dairy and Cheese:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Sauce and Seasoning:

• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Topping (optional):

• 1/4 cup crushed Ritz crackers
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 350F (175C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure smooth food release.
2. Create a creamy sauce by whisking together cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a spacious mixing bowl until smooth and well-incorporated.
3. Gently fold the pre-cooked chicken and tender broccoli florets into the sauce, ensuring each morsel is thoroughly coated with the rich, seasoned mixture.
4. Carefully spread the combined ingredients into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the surface for even cooking and consistent flavor distribution.
5. For added crunch and texture, combine crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter, then generously sprinkle the buttery crumb mixture across the casserole’s surface.
6. Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, watching for a bubbling texture and golden-brown topping that signals perfect doneness.
7. Allow the casserole to rest and slightly cool for 3-5 minutes, which helps the ingredients set and makes serving easier, then plate and savor the comforting, cheesy creation.

Notes

• Swap mayo for Greek yogurt to reduce calories and boost protein, creating a lighter yet equally creamy casserole.
• Use gluten-free crackers or almond flour topping for those with wheat sensitivities, maintaining the delightful crunchy texture.
• Roast broccoli beforehand to intensify its flavor and prevent watery consistency in the final dish.
• Prepare components ahead of time and assemble just before baking to streamline weeknight meal preparation.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 320 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 580 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 9 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 27 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg