Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe

There's something deeply comforting about the smell of Broccoli Chicken Casserole baking in the oven. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli combine into a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and undeniably satisfying.

I first tried this recipe when searching for an easy way to use leftover rotisserie chicken and some broccoli that needed attention. What started as a simple experiment quickly turned into a family favorite. Now, it’s my go-to for potlucks, busy weeknights, or whenever I need a dose of comfort food.

Why You'll Love This Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Get ready to add a new staple to your recipe rotation! This Broccoli Chicken Casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making it perfect for any occasion.

First off, it's a lifesaver for busy nights. With simple prep and a quick assembly process, you can have this dish in the oven in under 15 minutes. The rest of the time? Sit back and relax as the oven works its magic.

It's also a great way to sneak in some veggies. The broccoli not only adds a pop of color but also provides a boost of nutrition, making this casserole a balanced meal in one dish.

Budget-conscious cooks, rejoice! This recipe makes the most of affordable ingredients like leftover chicken, frozen broccoli, and pantry staples. Plus, it feeds a crowd, so it's ideal for families or meal prepping.

Finally, the creamy, cheesy goodness is sure to win over even the pickiest eaters. Pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread, and you’ve got a meal that feels fancy but is oh-so-easy.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Broccoli Chicken Casserole lies in its simple ingredients, each playing an important role in creating layers of flavor and texture.

Chicken: This recipe is perfect for using up leftovers. Shredded rotisserie chicken works wonderfully, but you can also cook and dice fresh chicken breasts or thighs if you prefer.

Broccoli: Fresh or frozen broccoli both work here. If you're using frozen, be sure to thaw and drain it first to avoid excess moisture in your casserole. Fresh broccoli should be lightly steamed or blanched for the best texture.

Cream of Chicken Soup: This classic ingredient forms the base of the sauce. For a homemade touch, you can make your own creamy chicken soup from scratch using chicken broth, cream, and a roux.

Cheddar Cheese: The sharp, tangy flavor of cheddar complements the creamy sauce perfectly. For the best melt, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded.

Rice or Pasta (optional): To make this casserole more filling, you can add cooked rice or pasta. Just layer it at the bottom of the baking dish before adding the chicken and broccoli mixture.

Special Equipment: A 9x13-inch baking dish is ideal for this recipe. Make sure it’s deep enough to hold all the layers comfortably.

How To Make This Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Creating this comforting casserole is a breeze, even for beginner cooks. Follow these steps for a foolproof dish.

Prepare the ingredients. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you're using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch it until it's bright green and tender. Shred or dice your chicken and set it aside.

Make the sauce. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir in some salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste. For a zesty twist, add a splash of lemon juice.

Assemble the casserole. Grease your baking dish and start layering. Spread the broccoli evenly over the bottom, followed by the shredded chicken. Pour the creamy sauce over the top, spreading it to coat everything evenly.

Top with cheese. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the casserole. For extra crunch, you can add a layer of breadcrumbs or crushed crackers mixed with melted butter.

Bake to perfection. Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. Prep, bake, and enjoy – all in under an hour!

Storage Options

This Broccoli Chicken Casserole is as convenient to store as it is to make, making it an excellent meal prep option.

Refrigerate: Once cooled, store the casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If using the original baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil.

Freeze: For longer storage, freeze individual portions or the entire casserole. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil or store it in a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep for up to 3 months.

Reheat: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 2-3 minutes. For larger portions, cover the casserole with foil and heat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this casserole is how adaptable it is to your preferences or pantry staples.

• Switch the protein: Swap the chicken for turkey, ham, or even cooked ground beef for a new twist.
• Add grains: Incorporate cooked rice, quinoa, or small pasta shapes for a heartier dish.
• Change the veggies: Substitute or add vegetables like cauliflower, peas, or mushrooms to mix things up.
• Try different cheeses: Replace cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a combination for a new flavor profile.
• Make it lighter: Use low-fat cream of chicken soup and sour cream to reduce the calorie count.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own – the possibilities are endless!

This Broccoli Chicken Casserole is the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you're feeding a crowd, prepping for the week, or just craving something cozy, it’s sure to hit the spot. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your favorite variations in the comments below!

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