Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe

There's nothing quite like a warm, cheesy Broccoli Chicken Casserole to bring the family together at the dinner table. This comforting dish combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy sauce, all topped with a golden, crispy layer of breadcrumbs.

this Recipe

I first made this casserole on a chilly Sunday afternoon when I needed something easy yet hearty to please a house full of hungry guests. Little did I know it would quickly become a staple in our dinner rotation. Now, it’s your turn to enjoy this crowd-pleaser!

Why You'll Love This Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Get ready to add a new favorite to your recipe collection. This Broccoli Chicken Casserole is everything you want in a weeknight meal – delicious, easy, and oh-so-satisfying.

First of all, it’s incredibly simple to make. With just a few steps and about 40 minutes, you can have a wholesome dinner on the table. It’s perfect for those nights when you’re craving comfort food but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

This dish is also a great way to sneak in some extra veggies. The broccoli pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce, making it a hit even with picky eaters.

It’s versatile, too! Whether you’re using leftover chicken or swapping ingredients to suit your pantry, this recipe adapts beautifully to whatever you have on hand.

Finally, it’s a one-pan wonder. Fewer dishes mean more time to relax and enjoy dinner with your loved ones.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to this Broccoli Chicken Casserole lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one is carefully selected to bring out the best in this dish.

Let’s start with the chicken. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well here. You can use pre-cooked chicken to save time, like shredded rotisserie chicken, or cook it fresh if you prefer.

Next, the broccoli. Fresh broccoli florets provide the best texture and flavor, but frozen broccoli is a great alternative. Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.

The creamy base of the casserole comes from a mix of cream of chicken soup and sour cream. This duo creates a rich, velvety sauce that ties all the ingredients together. For a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

Cheese lovers rejoice! Sharp cheddar cheese is the star of this recipe, adding a gooey, irresistible layer of flavor. Feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or Parmesan for a twist.

To top it all off, a blend of breadcrumbs and a drizzle of melted butter creates that perfect golden crust. Panko breadcrumbs work especially well for extra crunch.

No special equipment is required, just a trusty 9x13-inch baking dish to bring it all together.

How to Make This Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Creating this Broccoli Chicken Casserole is a breeze. Follow these simple steps to bring this comforting dish to life.

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. While the oven heats, steam or blanch your broccoli until it’s just tender. You want it to retain a bit of crunch, as it will cook further in the oven.

If you’re using fresh chicken, cook it now. Season with salt and pepper, then sauté or bake until fully cooked. Once cooled, shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and half of your shredded cheddar cheese. Add a pinch of garlic powder and onion powder for extra flavor. Mix in the broccoli and chicken, stirring until everything is evenly coated.

Spread the mixture into your baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, then prepare your breadcrumb topping by combining breadcrumbs with melted butter. Distribute the topping evenly across the casserole.

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Storage Options

This casserole stores beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.

To refrigerate, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.

For freezing, wrap the entire casserole tightly in aluminum foil or store individual portions in freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

When reheating, thaw frozen portions in the fridge overnight. Warm the casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through, or use the microwave for single servings.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this casserole lies in its adaptability. Here are some creative ways to make it your own:

• Swap the chicken for cooked ground turkey or even ham for a fun twist.
• Use cauliflower in place of broccoli if you want to switch up the vegetables.
• Add cooked rice or quinoa to the mixture for a heartier meal.
• Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce in the creamy base.
• Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or Colby for a flavor variation.

No matter how you customize it, this Broccoli Chicken Casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

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