Broccoli Chicken Casserole a comforting and creamy casserole combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce. This dish is perfect for a family dinner, bringing together simple ingredients for a warm and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
3 cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed
1 cup cooked rice or pasta (optional)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup sour cream
¼ cup milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup breadcrumbs (optional)
2 tablespoons melted butter
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Add the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, and cooked rice or pasta (if using) to the mixture and stir to combine.
Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
If using breadcrumbs, mix them with melted butter in a small bowl and sprinkle over the cheese layer.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
Variations
Low-Carb Option: Skip the rice or pasta and add extra broccoli or cauliflower for a lower-carb version.
Protein Swap: Use turkey instead of chicken for a different twist.
Cheese Choices: Try a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or parmesan for added depth of flavor.
Crunchy Topping: Instead of breadcrumbs, crushed Ritz crackers or French-fried onions can add a different crunch.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions until heated through.
FAQs
How can I make this casserole ahead of time?
I assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, I bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, I use frozen broccoli when I don’t have fresh. I thaw and drain it well before mixing it into the casserole.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
I make a homemade version by combining butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk until thickened. It works just as well.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes! I use dairy-free cheese, coconut milk or almond milk instead of regular milk, and a dairy-free cream soup alternative.
What should I serve with this casserole?
I like to serve it with a fresh side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This Broccoli Chicken Casserole is a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with comforting flavors, making it a family favorite. Plus, with so many variations, I can switch things up based on what I have in my kitchen. Whether I’m making it fresh or using leftovers, this casserole never disappoints.
Recipe:
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Broccoli Chicken Casserole
A comforting and creamy casserole combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a family dinner, offering a hearty and delicious meal with minimal prep.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
3 cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed
1 cup cooked rice or pasta (optional)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup sour cream
¼ cup milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup breadcrumbs (optional)
2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, and cooked rice or pasta (if using) to the mixture and stir to combine.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- If using breadcrumbs, mix them with melted butter in a small bowl and sprinkle over the cheese layer.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Low-Carb Option: Skip the rice or pasta and add more broccoli or cauliflower.
Protein Swap: Substitute turkey for chicken.
Cheese Choices: Try a mix of mozzarella, gouda, or parmesan for extra flavor.
Crunchy Topping: Use crushed Ritz crackers or French-fried onions instead of breadcrumbs.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving