This chicken and broccoli casserole is the epitome of comfort food. The tender chicken and crisp-tender broccoli are baked in a rich, creamy sauce, all topped with melted cheese.
It’s the kind of dish that is both satisfying and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.
With simple ingredients and easy steps, this casserole delivers a comforting, cheesy, and nutritious meal in every bite.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
- One-Dish Meal: All the ingredients come together in one casserole dish, making cleanup a breeze.
- Creamy and Cheesy: A rich, creamy sauce with gooey melted cheese brings everything together in perfect harmony.
- Kid-Approved: The mild, comforting flavors are perfect for picky eaters.
- Make Ahead and Freezer-Friendly: It’s easy to make ahead of time and can be frozen for later use.
- Customizable: You can add extra veggies, change up the cheese, or use a different protein to fit your preferences.
Ingredients For Chicken And Broccoli Casserole Recipe
This casserole is packed with delicious, wholesome ingredients that come together to make the ultimate comfort meal. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 4 cups broccoli florets, steamed until tender
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup crushed crackers (such as Ritz or buttery crackers)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for the topping)
Step By Step Instruction To Make Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
This simple recipe comes together in no time! Here’s how to make your casserole:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Combine the Chicken and Broccoli
Add the shredded chicken and steamed broccoli florets to the bowl with the sauce. Stir gently to coat the chicken and broccoli evenly in the creamy mixture.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the chicken and broccoli mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, combine the crushed crackers with the melted butter. Stir until the crackers are evenly coated in the butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the casserole.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy, and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
Step 7: Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the cheesy, comforting goodness!
FAQs or Tips
Here are some helpful tips and answers to common questions for making the perfect chicken and broccoli casserole:
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli in this casserole. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve. If you’re baking from cold, you may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes of baking time.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to swap the cheddar cheese for other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, this casserole is very versatile! You can add additional vegetables like carrots, peas, or mushrooms to make it heartier. Just make sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces.
How long will leftovers keep?
Leftovers will keep for about 3-4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Variations or Serving Suggestions
Here are some ways to customize or serve this casserole:
- Make it Low-Carb: Substitute the cream of chicken soup with a homemade low-carb version, and swap out the crackers for a low-carb topping like crushed pork rinds.
- Add a Crunchy Topping: For a different texture, try topping the casserole with French fried onions instead of crushed crackers.
- Serve with a Salad: This casserole pairs perfectly with a light green salad or a refreshing cucumber salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the casserole mixture for a mild heat, or top the casserole with some sliced jalapeños before baking.
Nutrition + Summary
Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 360 |
| Total Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Cholesterol | 65mg |
| Sodium | 800mg |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 4g |
| Protein | 26g |
Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is a classic comfort dish that brings together tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a quick and easy meal to prepare and is sure to satisfy the whole family. Plus, with the option to make it ahead of time or freeze for later, it’s perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights. This casserole is truly a go-to recipe when you need a comforting, filling meal!
Disclaimer: Nutritional information on this blog is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and portions. We are not nutritionists and recommend consulting a professional for specific dietary advice.
