Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe

There's something wonderfully comforting about a warm, cheesy Broccoli Chicken Casserole. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked broccoli all come together in a dish that’s as cozy as a hug.

I remember the first time I made this – it was a chilly fall evening, and I needed something hearty and simple to feed my family. One bite, and we were hooked. Now, it’s a staple in our weekly meal rotation, loved by adults and kids alike. It's quick to prepare and makes for the best leftovers, if there are any!

This recipe is about to become your family's new favorite, and I can't wait to share all the details with you.

Why You'll Love This Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Get ready to fall head over heels for this easy, flavorful dish. Here’s what makes it so irresistible:

First off, it’s a true lifesaver on busy nights. With just 15 minutes of prep, you can pop this casserole into the oven and relax while it bakes to golden perfection. It’s a total time-saver when you need dinner on the table fast.

Secondly, it’s packed with healthy ingredients. Broccoli adds a satisfying crunch and a burst of nutrients, while chicken provides lean protein to keep you full. Plus, the creamy sauce makes eating your veggies a real treat – even picky eaters will clean their plates.

This dish is also perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. It reheats beautifully, making lunch or dinner an absolute breeze.

And, of course, who can resist that ooey-gooey cheese on top? With a mix of cheddar and mozzarella, every bite is rich and satisfying. It's everything you want in a comforting casserole.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Broccoli Chicken Casserole lies in its simple ingredients, each bringing something special to the table. Let’s break down what makes this dish shine:

• Chicken: I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They cook quickly and shred easily, but you can also use leftover rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time. It’s a fantastic way to save effort without sacrificing flavor.
• Broccoli: Fresh florets are ideal, as they hold their texture better during baking. However, frozen broccoli works in a pinch – just be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in your casserole.
• Cheese: A combination of sharp cheddar and melty mozzarella makes this dish irresistible. The cheddar adds bold flavor, while the mozzarella ensures a creamy, gooey finish. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a touch of grated Parmesan for extra depth.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: This pantry staple is the key to a rich and creamy sauce. You can use store-bought for convenience or make your own for a homemade touch. If you prefer a lighter version, cream of mushroom or a low-sodium option works well too.
• Rice or Pasta: While optional, adding rice or cooked pasta makes this casserole even more filling. Just make sure it’s cooked before adding, so everything bakes evenly.

You'll also need a trusty 9x13 baking dish and some aluminum foil to keep everything warm and bubbly as it bakes.

How To Make This Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Creating this delicious casserole is as simple as layering a few ingredients and letting your oven work its magic. Here's how to do it:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease your baking dish. This ensures easy cleanup later and helps prevent sticking.
2. Cook and shred your chicken. If you’re starting with raw chicken breasts, season them lightly, then cook in a skillet over medium heat until no longer pink. Shred or chop into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, simply shred and set aside.
3. Blanch your broccoli by boiling for 2-3 minutes until bright green and just tender. Drain and pat dry. This step keeps the broccoli from getting too mushy during baking.
4. Mix the sauce. In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, a splash of milk, and half of your shredded cheese. Season with a bit of salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Stir in the cooked chicken and blanched broccoli until everything is well coated.
5. Assemble the casserole. Spread the chicken and broccoli mixture evenly into your prepared dish. Top with the remaining cheese and cover loosely with foil. This helps the casserole bake evenly without drying out.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. For an extra crispy topping, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

From start to finish, this dish takes about 40 minutes. Your kitchen will be filled with the most mouthwatering aroma, and dinner will be ready before you know it!

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this Broccoli Chicken Casserole stores beautifully. Here’s how to keep it tasting fresh:

• Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It makes a perfect make-ahead lunch or an easy reheat dinner option.
• Freeze: You can freeze this casserole before or after baking. To freeze before, assemble everything in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. If freezing after, let the casserole cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Reheat: To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For a quicker option, you can microwave individual portions, but the oven will help maintain that deliciously melty cheese topping.

Variations and Substitutions

This casserole is highly versatile, making it easy to adapt to your preferences or what you have on hand:

• Add a Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the cheese before baking for a delightful crunch.
• Make It Low-Carb: Skip the rice or pasta and use cauliflower rice instead. You’ll get the same satisfying texture without the extra carbs.
• Switch Up the Veggies: Swap the broccoli for cauliflower, peas, or even diced carrots. This recipe is an excellent way to use up any vegetables lingering in your fridge.
• Go Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cream soup and cheese alternative. Coconut milk or cashew cream can add a lovely richness to the sauce without any dairy.
• Spice It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. A touch of smoked paprika also adds a wonderful depth of flavor.

Feel free to get creative and make this casserole your own. No matter how you customize it, you’re sure to end up with a meal that’s wholesome, hearty, and absolutely delicious!

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