This Chicken Broccoli Casserole is a simple, hearty dish that’s perfect for busy evenings or a weekend dinner. Made with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy sauce topped with melted cheese, it’s a family-friendly meal that everyone will love. The best part? It’s easy to prepare and bakes to perfection in no time.
| Servings | Total |
| 6 | 50mins |
History of Chicken Broccoli Casserole
Chicken and broccoli casseroles became popular in American kitchens during the 20th century when casseroles were gaining traction as convenient, one-dish meals. Broccoli was a fresh addition that made this dish feel balanced and complete. Over the years, variations have included different cheeses, rice, and even pasta, making it a versatile favorite.
Why Chicken Broccoli Casserole?
- Easy to Make: Perfect for busy nights, with minimal prep.
- Comforting: Warm and creamy, it’s a satisfying meal.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein from chicken and vitamins from broccoli.
- Customizable: Easily tweak ingredients to suit your preferences.
What is Chicken Broccoli Casserole Made of?
This casserole typically includes:
- Chicken breasts or thighs, cooked and shredded
- Fresh or frozen broccoli florets
- Cream of chicken soup or a homemade substitute
- Sour cream or mayonnaise for creaminess
- Cheddar cheese for a gooey topping
- Seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper
- Optional: cooked rice or pasta for a heartier dish
What to Have with Chicken Broccoli Casserole
Pair this casserole with:
- A side salad with a light vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
- Roasted or steamed vegetables like carrots or green beans
Is Chicken Broccoli Casserole Healthy?
This casserole can be healthy if made with lean chicken, fresh broccoli, and reduced-fat or homemade creamy components. Using minimal cheese and seasoning can also keep the dish lighter while still flavorful.
Kitchen Equipment
- Large baking dish (9×13 recommended)
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or spoon for mixing
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 4 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream or mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 2 cups cooked rice or pasta
Directions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, steam it until slightly tender. If using frozen, thaw and drain well.
- Mix Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream or mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Assemble Casserole: In a greased baking dish, layer broccoli and chicken. Pour the creamy sauce over the top and spread evenly.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips
- For extra flavor, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers mixed with melted butter over the cheese before baking.
- If you prefer a heartier casserole, add cooked rice or pasta to the mix.
- Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded.
Conclusion
This Chicken Broccoli Casserole is a quick and delicious way to bring a wholesome meal to the table. With minimal prep and classic flavors, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Perfect for busy families or a comforting weekend dinner—give it a try!
MORE RECIPES
The Best Chicken Broccoli Casserole Recipe
Equipment
- Large baking dish (9×13 recommended)
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or spoon for mixing
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 4 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream or mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 2 cups cooked rice or pasta
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- If using fresh broccoli, steam it until slightly tender. If using frozen, thaw and drain well.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream or mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- In a greased baking dish, layer broccoli and chicken. Pour the creamy sauce over the top and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.