This Broccoli Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Made with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce, this casserole is both filling and full of flavor. It’s easy to make and can even be prepared ahead of time, making it a convenient meal option for busy days.
Broccoli Chicken Casserole
This casserole is all about layers of deliciousness, with juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce. The best part? It’s baked to golden, bubbly perfection, creating a hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners. I love how versatile this recipe is—add some rice or pasta to make it even more filling or switch up the cheese for a different flavor profile.
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Chicken Casserole
This Broccoli Chicken Casserole is a complete meal in one dish. It combines lean protein from the chicken, fiber-rich broccoli, and a deliciously creamy sauce. I love how quick and easy it is to put together, and it’s a great way to get kids to eat more veggies. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep—you can assemble it ahead of time and just bake when you’re ready.
Main Ingredients in Broccoli Chicken Casserole
- Chicken Breast or Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs work well in this recipe.
- Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add a nice texture and flavor to the casserole.
- Cheese (Cheddar or Mozzarella): For a rich, cheesy topping that melts beautifully.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup or Cream of Chicken Soup: Adds creaminess to the casserole. You can use homemade or canned.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Adds extra creaminess and tang to the sauce.
- Seasonings (Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, Pepper): Enhances the flavor of the casserole.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Broccoli Chicken Casserole
Here’s how to make this comforting casserole:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Cook the chicken until browned on both sides and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes per side). Let it cool, then shred or dice into bite-sized pieces.
- Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes, until just tender. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large bowl, mix the cream of mushroom (or chicken) soup, sour cream, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese.
- Assemble the Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, spread the cooked chicken and broccoli evenly. Pour the sauce mixture over the top and stir gently to coat everything. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the casserole.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for Making the Best Broccoli Chicken Casserole
- Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli works best for texture, but you can use frozen if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well.
- Add a Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with a little butter over the cheese for a crunchy topping.
- Customize the Cheese: Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Swiss, or Gruyère for a unique flavor twist.
How to Store and Serve
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave for a quicker option.
This Broccoli Chicken Casserole pairs well with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or rice for a complete meal. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something warm and comforting.
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