If you’re in the mood for something heartwarming and downright addictive, you’ve just found your new favorite dinner: this Chicken and Broccoli Cheesy Casserole Recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and gooey melted cheese all baked into one cozy dish. It’s the kind of meal that brings comfort and smiles to the table, perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want to treat yourself (and your loved ones) to something truly satisfying. Trust me, once you try this casserole, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken and Broccoli Cheesy Casserole Recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully, each adding its own unique flavor and texture. From the creamy soup base to the sharp cheddar cheese, every component plays a crucial role in making this dish unforgettable.
- Cooked chicken (2 cups): Shredded or chopped, it provides the hearty protein that keeps you full and satisfied.
- Broccoli florets (3 cups): Steamed until just tender, they add a bright green color and fresh, slightly crunchy texture.
- Cooked rice (2 cups): Use white or brown rice for a comforting, filling base that soaks up all the cheesy goodness.
- Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): This creates a rich and creamy sauce that binds everything together perfectly.
- Sour cream (½ cup): Adds a tangy creaminess that lightens up the texture while boosting flavor.
- Milk (½ cup): Keeps the casserole moist and smooth without being heavy.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups, divided): Sharp, melty cheddar is the star that gives this dish its irresistible cheesy pull.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp): Brings a subtle depth and savory aroma.
- Onion powder (½ tsp): Enhances the overall flavor profile with a gentle sweetness.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that brighten and balance the dish.
- Crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs (½ cup, optional): For a crunchy topping that adds a delightful contrast.
- Melted butter (1 tbsp, if using cracker topping): Helps the topping brown beautifully and develop rich flavor.
How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Cheesy Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick and comes out beautifully baked. While your oven warms, make sure your chicken is cooked and shredded, and your broccoli is steamed until just tender but still vibrant green. Gathering these ingredients upfront makes the rest of the process a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Casserole Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, and cooked rice. Add the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk. Sprinkle in your garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Then, fold in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with that creamy, cheesy sauce—you want every bite to be bursting with flavor and texture.
Step 3: Assemble and Top Your Casserole
Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Then generously top with the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese. For an extra delicious crunch, mix crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle this golden layer over the cheese.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop your dish into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re aiming for a bubbly casserole with melted, slightly browned cheese on top. Once baked, let it cool for about 5 minutes to set, making it easier to serve and allowing the flavors to settle beautifully.
How to Serve Chicken and Broccoli Cheesy Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a burst of color and fresh flavor that lifts this hearty casserole. You might also consider a light dusting of paprika for a hint of smoky warmth, or a few red pepper flakes if you want to sneak in a little heat while keeping the cozy vibe intact.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands beautifully on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or a tangy coleslaw brings a refreshing contrast. Roasted vegetables or garlic bread can round out the meal for those times you want extra variety on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For individual servings, try scooping the casserole into ramekins for a charming presentation that’s perfect for dinner parties or meal prep. You can also turn leftovers into delicious stuffed bell peppers or wraps for a fun twist the next day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Chicken and Broccoli Cheesy Casserole Recipe stores wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep leftovers in an airtight container to maintain the casserole’s moisture and flavor, and it’ll taste just as comforting each time.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead or save some for later, this casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm up the whole casserole in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and bubbly again. A quick tip: cover with foil while reheating to prevent the top from over-browning.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw it fully and drain any excess water to avoid a soggy casserole.
Is it possible to substitute the rice with another grain?
Yes! Quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even pasta work great as alternatives to change things up or accommodate dietary preferences.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time and bake it later?
Definitely! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes meal prep super convenient.
What cheese works best for this cheesy casserole?
Cheddar is classic for this recipe, but feel free to mix in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of Parmesan for extra flavor complexity.
How can I add some extra flavor or spice?
Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika into the mix can give a delightful kick without overwhelming the comforting nature of the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Broccoli Cheesy Casserole Recipe is one of those magical dishes that combines comfort, simplicity, and flavor effortlessly. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a cozy solo night in, it never fails to satisfy. Give it a try soon—you might just find your new go-to weeknight hero in this cheesy, comforting casserole!
Print
Chicken and Broccoli Cheesy Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This Chicken and Broccoli Cheesy Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly dish combining tender cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, and cooked rice in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Topped with melted cheddar and optional buttery crackers, it’s a satisfying main course perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 3 cups broccoli florets, steamed until just tender
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs (optional)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (if using cracker topping)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until all ingredients are fully incorporated and evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the combined mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Add Optional Topping: If using the cracker topping, combine the crushed buttery crackers with melted butter and sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese layer for a crunchy finish.
- Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese topping is fully melted and slightly golden.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set and ensure safe serving temperature.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken works excellently as a time-saving option for the cooked chicken.
- Quinoa can be substituted for rice for a different texture and nutritional boost.
- If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding to avoid excess moisture.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat if desired.
