Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe

There's something undeniably comforting about a warm, bubbly casserole fresh out of the oven, and this Broccoli Chicken Casserole is no exception. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with wholesome ingredients, it's the perfect balance of indulgent and nutritious.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe on a hectic weekday when I needed to make something quick, delicious, and satisfying. It's since become a family favorite, gracing our table whenever we're craving something hearty yet easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that's as versatile as it is satisfying. This Broccoli Chicken Casserole is a one-pan wonder, ideal for busy weeknights or cozy Sunday dinners.

First, it's incredibly simple to make, requiring just 15 minutes of prep before popping into the oven. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is practically foolproof.

The ingredients are family-friendly, combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy sauce topped with golden, bubbly cheese. Even picky eaters will come back for seconds!

It's also a great way to use up leftovers. Have cooked chicken or veggies in the fridge? Toss them in to make this casserole uniquely yours.

Lastly, this recipe is perfect for meal prep. Make it ahead of time, and you've got a delicious, ready-to-go dinner that'll stay fresh for days.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this casserole lies in its straightforward ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. Here's a breakdown of what you'll need:

Chicken
For this recipe, you'll need about 3 cups of cooked, shredded chicken. Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully, or you can roast or poach chicken breasts for a homemade touch.

Broccoli
Fresh broccoli florets are ideal for this casserole, as they maintain a tender-crisp texture after baking. Frozen broccoli can also be used – just thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

Cream of Chicken Soup
This is the base of the creamy sauce. You can use store-bought for convenience, but homemade cream of chicken soup will elevate the dish even further.

Cheddar Cheese
A sharp cheddar provides the best flavor contrast, melting into a bubbly, golden topping. Feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or Parmesan for extra richness.

Breadcrumbs
A light layer of breadcrumbs adds a delightful crunch to the casserole's surface. Panko breadcrumbs are my go-to, but crushed crackers also work.

Special equipment: You'll need a 9x13-inch baking dish to assemble the casserole.

How To Make This Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Making this Broccoli Chicken Casserole is as easy as layering, mixing, and baking. Let me walk you through the steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease your baking dish. Steam or blanch the broccoli until just tender, and set it aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheese. Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste. Mix until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the shredded chicken evenly over the bottom of the prepared dish. Arrange the broccoli florets on top, ensuring they’re distributed evenly. Pour the sauce over the chicken and broccoli, spreading it to coat everything.

Step 4: Add the Toppings
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the casserole. Then, top with breadcrumbs, drizzling melted butter over the top to help them crisp up.

Step 5: Bake
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Storage Options

This casserole is just as delicious the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead meal.

Refrigeration
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing
To freeze, assemble the casserole without baking. Cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed.

Reheating
Reheat portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or place the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Variations and Substitutions

This Broccoli Chicken Casserole is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas to customize it to your liking:

• Protein Swap: Replace chicken with turkey, ham, or even ground beef for a twist on the original.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and double the broccoli or add other veggies like mushrooms or zucchini.
• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cream soup and cheese alternative to cater to dietary restrictions.
• Low-Carb: Skip the breadcrumbs and top with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly version.
• Spice it Up: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the sauce for a kick of heat.

Experiment with different combinations to make this casserole uniquely yours – the possibilities are endless!

Whether you're feeding a hungry crowd or prepping meals for the week, this Broccoli Chicken Casserole is a recipe you'll find yourself coming back to again and again. Give it a try, and watch as it becomes a staple in your home too!

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