There is nothing quite like a comforting, hearty casserole that feels like a warm hug on a plate, and the Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe truly delivers on that promise. This dish combines tender cooked chicken, fresh broccoli, and a luscious cheesy sauce that’s both creamy and packed with flavor, all baked to golden perfection with a crispy buttery topping. It’s the kind of recipe that makes weeknight dinners simple yet special, perfect for feeding the family or meal prepping for the busy days ahead. Bring a smile to your table with this irresistibly delicious and approachable casserole that has cheddar cheese and wholesome ingredients front and center.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe is a breeze because each item plays a key part in building layers of texture and taste. From the savory cream of chicken soup that brings creaminess to the vibrant broccoli adding a fresh pop of color, every element comes together effortlessly.
- Cooked chicken (2 cups): Shredded or cubed, this protein makes the casserole hearty and satisfying.
- Broccoli florets (3 cups): Fresh or frozen, lightly steamed to keep them tender but crisp for a nutritious crunch.
- Condensed cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): This creamy base is the secret to a rich and velvety sauce.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds tang and silkiness, balancing the cheddar’s sharpness.
- Milk (1/4 cup): Helps loosen the sauce to a perfect consistency.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Brings a fragrant warmth without overpowering.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds subtle depth and sweetness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning that ties all flavors together beautifully.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 1/2 cups, divided): The star of the show, melting into gooey layers and a golden crust.
- Crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): Creates a crunchy, golden topping that contrasts the creamy filling.
- Melted butter (1 tablespoon): Mixes with the topping to add richness and help crisp up the crust.
How to Make Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray. This step ensures the casserole doesn’t stick and helps achieve a perfect golden crust later on.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until smooth and well blended. This creamy mixture is the foundation of our casserole’s luscious texture and rich flavor profile.
Step 3: Add Chicken, Broccoli, and Cheese
Gently fold in the cooked chicken, lightly steamed broccoli florets, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the creamy sauce. Mixing carefully ensures every bite gets a balanced blend of protein, vegetables, and melty cheese. This is the heart of the Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe – a combination that’s as wholesome as it is delicious.
Step 4: Assemble in the Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top to create a cheesy crown that will melt and bubble beautifully in the oven.
Step 5: Add the Crunchy Topping and Bake
In a small bowl, combine the crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer to add a lovely crunch. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbling, and the topping is golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving, which helps the casserole set perfectly for easy serving.
How to Serve Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives sprinkled on top add a burst of color and a hint of fresh flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich casserole. A light dusting of cracked black pepper or a few red pepper flakes can also provide a little kick for those who enjoy some heat.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette or some buttery garlic bread. Steamed green beans or roasted carrots complement the cheesy chicken and broccoli with additional texture and sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for personal portions that look extra special. You can also surprise your guests by layering cooked rice or pasta beneath the casserole mixture for an even more filling and comforting meal that stretches the Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe in wonderful ways.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making the next-day meal just as enjoyable. Be sure to cool the casserole completely before sealing it to maintain freshness and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. For best results, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed until bubbly and golden.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions or the whole casserole in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, typically about 20 minutes for a whole dish and less for single servings. Reheating in the oven keeps the topping crispier compared to the microwave.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds wonderful flavor and saves time, making the Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe even easier to prepare.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can make a quick creamy sauce with butter, flour, and chicken broth mixed with milk. Alternatively, cream of mushroom soup can also be used for a slightly different but delicious flavor.
Is it okay to use frozen broccoli? Should it be thawed first?
Yes, frozen broccoli works perfectly. Just give it a light steam or blanch first to remove excess moisture and ensure it cooks evenly in the casserole without making it watery.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free or gluten-free?
To make a dairy-free version, try coconut milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives, and use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs for the topping. Keep in mind texture and flavor may vary slightly, but it can still be delicious and comforting.
How can I make this casserole more filling?
Adding cooked rice, pasta, or even quinoa to the mixture before baking adds bulk and makes this Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe perfect for bigger appetites or meal prepping for the week.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser that combines comforting flavors, simple ingredients, and effortless preparation that you can feel good about. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish will quickly become a beloved go-to. Give it a try and enjoy the satisfying blend of cheesy, creamy, and wholesome that only a casserole like this can offer!
Print
Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is a comforting and hearty main dish perfect for family dinners. Combining tender cooked chicken, nutritious broccoli, and a creamy cheesy sauce, this casserole is effortlessly flavorful and simple to prepare. Topped with a buttery cracker crust, it bakes to a golden bubbly perfection that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 3 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets (lightly steamed)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
Topping
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended to create a creamy sauce base.
- Add Chicken and Broccoli: Stir in the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli florets, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the sauce. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and spread it out smoothly.
- Add Cheese and Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese over the top. In a separate small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until it is hot, bubbly, and the topping is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving to allow the casserole to set and enhance flavors.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to reduce fat and add a tangy taste.
- For a more filling meal, stir in cooked rice or pasta before baking.
