Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Casserole is the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. It’s a creamy, cheesy dish loaded with tender chicken and healthy broccoli, making it a favorite for both kids and adults alike. With a delicious combination of creamy sauce, melted cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb topping, this casserole delivers a satisfying meal that’s not only easy to make but also versatile. Whether you’re using leftover chicken or preparing the dish from scratch, this hearty meal is sure to leave everyone wanting more. Plus, it can be customized with your favorite add-ins like pasta or rice, making it a go-to dish for nearly any occasion.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this delightful casserole:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (You can use rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken)
• 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed (Fresh or frozen, steamed until tender)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (Provides the creamy base for the casserole)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise or sour cream (For added creaminess; choose based on your preference)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (Sharp cheddar is best for a strong cheesy flavor)
• 1/4 cup milk (Helps thin out the sauce to the perfect consistency)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (Adds a subtle garlic flavor to the dish)
• 1/2 tsp onion powder (For depth of flavor)
• 1/4 tsp salt (To taste; adjust if your cream of chicken soup is already salted)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (For a hint of spice)
• 1/2 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs (Provides a crispy, crunchy topping)
• 2 tbsp melted butter (Used to mix with the breadcrumbs for the topping)

Preparation

Follow these step-by-step instructions for making this delicious casserole.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, prepare your ingredients by steaming the broccoli and shredding the cooked chicken.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise or sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and well combined. The mixture should be creamy and thick, with the cheese well incorporated into the sauce.

Step 3: Add the Chicken and Broccoli

Add the shredded chicken and steamed broccoli florets to the bowl with the creamy sauce. Stir gently until everything is well combined. The chicken and broccoli should be evenly coated with the creamy mixture, ensuring that every bite will be flavorful and delicious.

Step 4: Pour Into a Baking Dish

Next, grease a baking dish (about 9×13 inches) with cooking spray or butter. Pour the chicken and broccoli mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Add More Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This layer of cheese will melt beautifully during baking, creating a rich, cheesy crust on top.

Step 6: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are fully coated in butter, forming a slightly clumpy mixture. This step is essential for getting that perfectly golden and crispy topping.

Step 7: Add the Topping

Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. This will give the dish a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy filling.

Step 8: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The casserole is done when the cheese is bubbly, and the topping is golden brown. Be careful not to overbake, as this could dry out the chicken.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve the casserole warm and enjoy its creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness!

COOKING Note:

• If you like your casserole extra creamy, feel free to add an additional 1/4 cup of milk or another can of cream of chicken soup to the base mixture.
• You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of broccoli soup for a different flavor profile.
• Frozen broccoli can also be used instead of fresh. Just make sure it’s thawed and well-drained before adding it to the casserole to avoid excess moisture.

Serving Suggestions:

Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas to make your meal even more satisfying:

• Steamed rice or brown rice: A great option to soak up the extra sauce from the casserole.
• Garlic bread or dinner rolls: Perfect for sopping up the creamy, cheesy sauce.
• Fresh green salad: A light and crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the casserole.
• Roasted vegetables: Pair with roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus for a well-rounded meal.

Tips:

• Make ahead: This casserole can be made in advance! Simply assemble the casserole, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, let the dish come to room temperature and then bake as instructed.
• Freezing: To freeze, assemble the casserole but don’t add the cracker topping. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, add the cracker topping, and bake as directed.
• Customizations: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to the casserole. For a heartier version, mix in cooked rice or pasta before baking. You can also try using different cheeses like mozzarella or Swiss for a different flavor profile.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Sodium: 780mg

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes! While cheddar cheese is the classic choice for this casserole, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheeses for a unique flavor.

2. What can I use instead of mayonnaise? If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, sour cream or Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute. They will both provide creaminess without the tangy flavor of mayonnaise.

3. Can I make this casserole in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate it, and then bake it just before serving. Alternatively, you can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months.

4. Can I use rotisserie chicken? Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this recipe! Just shred the chicken and add it to the casserole as instructed.

5. How can I make this dish gluten-free? To make this casserole gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crackers for the topping. Also, make sure the cream of chicken soup is gluten-free, as some brands contain gluten.

Conclusion

Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients like tender chicken and fresh broccoli, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s topped with a crispy layer of breadcrumbs. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Plus, with its easy prep and make-ahead options, it’s a lifesaver on busy days. So gather your ingredients and give this delicious recipe a try—you won’t regret it!

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