Irresistible Chicken Broccoli Bake Recipe for Cozy Dinners

Creamy chicken broccoli bake delivers comfort food magic straight to your dinner table.

Cheesy layers of tender poultry and vibrant green florets promise a delightful meal everyone will adore.

Weeknight cooking becomes effortless with this simple yet satisfying casserole.

Nutritious ingredients combine in a harmonious blend that feels like a warm culinary hug.

Weeknight stress melts away as you assemble this hearty dish with minimal preparation.

Rich flavors and wholesome components make this recipe a reliable crowd-pleaser.

Jump into this delectable experience and savor every single bite.

Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bake

• Chicken: A lean protein that adds substance and flavor to the casserole.

• Broccoli Florets: A nutritious green vegetable that provides a fresh crunch and earthy flavor.
• Onion, Garlic: Aromatic ingredients that enhance the overall taste of the dish.

• Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup, Sour Cream, Mayonnaise, Milk: Creamy components that create a rich and smooth sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese, Cheddar Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese: Cheeses that add depth of flavor and create a melty, golden topping.

• Dried Thyme, Dried Basil, Salt, Black Pepper: Herbs and spices that provide a balanced and savory taste profile.

• Bread Crumbs, Melted Butter: Create a crispy and golden crust on top of the casserole.
• Fresh Parsley: A garnish that adds a pop of color and fresh herb flavor.

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Bake Perfectly

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 375°F (190°C) and get ready for some serious comfort food magic.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Sauce Base

• Condensed cream of chicken soup
• Sour cream
• Mayonnaise
• Milk
• Parmesan cheese
• Dried thyme
• Dried basil
• Salt
• Black pepper

Whisk everything together until smooth and dreamy.

Step 3: Mix in the Good Stuff

• Cooked chicken
• Broccoli florets
• Chopped onion
• Minced garlic

Stir until every morsel is beautifully coated.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish

Pour the entire mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 5: Create a Crunchy Topping

In a small bowl, combine bread crumbs with melted butter.

Sprinkle this golden mixture across the top of the casserole.

Step 6: Add Cheese Layer

Generously scatter shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the bread crumb topping.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.

You’re looking for a golden-brown top and bubbling edges.

Step 8: Final Touch

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the casserole right before serving for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Pro Tips for Creamy and Tasty Chicken Broccoli Bake

• Replace chicken with turkey, tofu, or canned tuna for variety and different dietary needs.
• Add extra vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or spinach to increase nutritional value and texture.
• Toast bread crumbs in a dry skillet before mixing with butter for extra crunchiness and deeper flavor.
• Use low-fat sour cream, light mayonnaise, and reduced-fat cheeses to create a healthier version without sacrificing taste.
• Assemble the casserole a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve for convenient meal planning.

Variations to Customize Chicken Broccoli Bake

• Vegetarian Broccoli Bake: Replace chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, using vegetable broth instead of cream of chicken soup for a plant-based version.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Alternative: Swap broccoli and bread crumbs with cauliflower florets and crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly option.
• Gluten-Free Herb Casserole: Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup, almond flour bread crumbs, and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Mediterranean Style Bake: Add sun-dried tomatoes, swap herbs for oregano and rosemary, and use feta cheese instead of cheddar for a Mediterranean flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Broccoli Bake

• Hearty Family Dinner Companion: Serve this baked dish with fluffy white rice or buttered egg noodles to soak up the creamy sauce and add extra comfort.
• Veggie Power Plate: Create a balanced meal by adding a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables on the side to complement the rich casserole.
• Bread Lover's Delight: Pair with warm garlic bread, crusty French bread, or soft dinner rolls to help guests mop up every delicious bit of the creamy chicken and broccoli mixture.
• Protein Plus Option: For extra protein, consider serving alongside a light quinoa pilaf or adding sliced hard-boiled eggs on top of individual servings for additional nutrition.

How to Store Chicken Broccoli Bake

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days, ensuring freshness and food safety.
• Transfer cooled casserole to freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months without losing quality.
• Thaw overnight in refrigerator, then bake at 350F for 20-25 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent excessive browning and maintain moisture.
• Place individual portions on microwave-safe plate, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. Add splash of milk to restore creamy texture if needed.

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 recipe to prevent excess moisture.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, the recipe contains bread crumbs and cream of chicken soup, which typically have gluten. You’ll need to substitute with gluten-free alternatives like gluten-free bread crumbs and soup.

• Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it for 35-40 minutes to ensure it’s heated through.

• What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

Greek yogurt works perfectly as a mayonnaise replacement. It provides similar creaminess and tanginess while being slightly healthier.

Chicken Broccoli Bake Loaded with Cheese and Flavor

• Whip Up a Comforting Meal: This chicken broccoli bake delivers ultimate comfort food with minimal effort, combining creamy sauce, tender chicken, and nutritious broccoli in one delicious dish.
• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients based on what's in your kitchen – use different cheeses, add extra vegetables, or substitute proteins to make this recipe perfectly suited to your taste and pantry.
• Quick Family Pleaser: Packed with protein and veggies, this casserole satisfies hungry family members of all ages, making mealtime stress-free and enjoyable for everyone around the table.
• Simple One-Dish Wonder: Minimize kitchen cleanup by preparing everything in a single casserole dish, allowing you to spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.

Chicken Broccoli Bake Recipe

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• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Comforting chicken broccoli bake merges creamy textures with hearty ingredients for a satisfying meal. Cheesy layers and simple preparation make this dish perfect for family dinners and quick weeknight solutions you can enjoy together.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Sauce and Creamy Components:

• 1 can (10.5 ounces/298 grams) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup milk

Seasoning and Topping:

• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

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Instructions

1. Whisk together cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, milk, Parmesan cheese, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper in a spacious mixing vessel until smooth and integrated.
2. Fold in pre-cooked chicken, broccoli florets, diced onion, and minced garlic, ensuring every ingredient is thoroughly enrobed by the creamy sauce.
3. Carefully distribute the mixture into a well-greased casserole dish, creating an even layer for consistent cooking.
4. Combine bread crumbs with melted butter in a separate container, creating a golden, crisp topping mixture.
5. Generously scatter the buttered bread crumbs across the casserole’s surface, providing a textural contrast to the creamy base.
6. Liberally sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the bread crumb layer for additional richness and visual appeal.
7. Position the casserole in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven, allowing it to bake for 25-30 minutes until the top transforms into a golden-brown crust and the interior becomes effervescent and heated through.
8. Finish the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley, adding a vibrant, herbaceous touch just before serving.

Notes

• Swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-packed version that reduces calories without compromising flavor.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed almond flour to make this dish completely gluten-free and suitable for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Roast broccoli separately before adding to enhance its nutty flavor and prevent soggy texture in the final casserole.
• Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a subtle kick if you enjoy a bit of heat in your comfort food dish.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 315 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 580 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 14 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 23 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg