Introduction: A Hearty Classic for Busy Families
Imagine coming home after a long, exhausting day, only to find yourself in the middle of dinner chaos Chicken Broccoli Cheese Casserole. You need something quick, wholesome, and satisfying—something that brings warmth to your table and comfort to your soul.
That’s exactly where Chicken Broccoli Cheese Casserole steps in.
This cheesy, creamy, and protein-packed dish is everything you want in a homemade meal: effortless, delicious, and perfect for the entire family. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal-prep staple, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Even picky eaters will love the rich blend of flavours and the irresistibly crispy topping.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a foolproof recipe, tips for customisation, and storage advice to make this dish an all-time favourite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Here’s why this dish deserves a spot on your weekly meal plan:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes with minimal prep work.
- Nutritious & Balanced: Loaded with lean protein, fibre, and essential vitamins.
- Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters won’t resist the cheesy goodness.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead and reheat effortlessly.
- One-Dish Convenience: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup.
If you’re looking for a go-to comfort meal that delivers on both taste and nutrition, you’ve just found it!
Ingredients for Chicken Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Every great dish starts with the perfect balance of ingredients. Below is everything you need:
Ingredient List
Chicken Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets steamed
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs optional for topping
- 2 tablespoons butter melted (if using breadcrumbs)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese.
- In another bowl, whisk together the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and broccoli, stirring to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish and spread evenly.
- If using breadcrumbs, mix them with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavour, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version.
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Serve with rice or pasta for a complete meal.
Each ingredient brings something special to the dish, ensuring the perfect texture and flavour combination.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Chicken Broccoli Cheese Casserole
1 – Preheat & Prepare Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- If you’re not using pre-cooked chicken, cook and shred it beforehand.
- Steam fresh broccoli for 3-5 minutes until slightly tender. If using frozen, thaw and drain well.
2 – Mix the Casserole Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Shredded chicken
- Broccoli florets
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- Cream of chicken soup
- Sour cream
- Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper
- Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.
3 – Assemble & Top It Off
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- In a small bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole for that crispy, golden topping.
Step 4 – Bake to Perfection
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is golden and bubbly.
- Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavours to settle.
Tips & Variations for the Best Chicken Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Customisation Ideas
Want to switch things up? Try these variations:
- Make It Low-Carb: Swap crackers for almond flour crumbs or skip the topping altogether.
- Boost the Protein: Add cooked bacon, turkey, or sausage for an extra savoury touch.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or hot sauce to the mix for a kick.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a GF cream of chicken soup substitute.
Storage & Make-Ahead Instructions for Chicken Broccoli Cheese Casserole
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze before baking for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight and bake as directed.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals.
What to Serve with Chicken Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Looking to round out your meal? Here are some perfect pairings:
- Side Dishes: Garlic bread, a light green salad, or roasted vegetables.
- Drinks: A crisp white wine, iced tea, or fruit-infused water.
- Dessert: A simple fruit salad or vanilla ice cream for a balanced finish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes! Just ensure it’s thawed and drained properly to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
How can I make this dish keto-friendly?
Replace crackers with crushed pork rinds and use a low-carb thickener instead of the soup.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish a day in advance, cover, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Cheddar is the classic choice, but Gouda, Monterey Jack, or a mix works just as well.
Conclusion: A Comforting, Easy Casserole You’ll Love
With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and hearty flavour, this Chicken Broccoli Cheese Casserole is bound to become a family favourite. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal or prepping for a gathering, it’s an easy and satisfying dish that delivers on all fronts.
Now that you have everything you need, why not give it a try tonight? Let us know how it turns out in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family!
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