Craving a cozy and delicious meal? This Cheesy Broccoli and Chicken Casserole is creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor. A perfect one-dish dinner your whole family will love.
Cheesy Broccoli and Chicken Casserole Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic
Why You’ll Love This Casserole
If you're looking for a quick and comforting dinner that’s both hearty and nutritious, this cheesy broccoli and chicken casserole is just what you need. It’s creamy, cheesy, and filled with tender chicken and perfectly cooked broccoli. Plus, it’s an easy way to sneak some veggies into your family’s diet—without anyone complaining!
Whether you're meal-prepping for the week or feeding a crowd, this casserole is a great make-ahead option that reheats beautifully.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this cheesy broccoli and chicken casserole:
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed)
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed and drained)
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Topping:
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
Step 2: Cook the Rice and Chicken (If Not Already Cooked)
If your chicken and rice aren’t already prepared, cook them now. For faster prep, use rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken. Cook your rice according to package directions.
Step 3: Steam or Blanch the Broccoli
If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch the florets for about 2–3 minutes until they turn bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside. If using frozen broccoli, make sure it’s fully thawed and drained.
Step 4: Mix the Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine Everything
To the bowl, add the cooked chicken, broccoli, rice, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Stir everything together until well mixed and evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. If using the optional topping, mix the breadcrumbs or crackers with the melted butter, and sprinkle over the casserole. Finish by adding extra shredded cheese on top.
Step 7: Bake
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
Step 8: Let It Rest
Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. This allows everything to set and makes it easier to scoop.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad, garlic bread, or some roasted veggies if you're extra hungry. It also pairs well with iced tea or a light lemonade.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze individual portions or the whole casserole (before baking) for up to 2 months.
- To Reheat: Microwave individual servings or reheat the whole dish in a 350°F oven until warm throughout.
Helpful Tips
- Don’t overcook the broccoli before baking—it will continue to soften in the oven.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or paprika if you want a little kick.
- Feel free to swap in cooked quinoa, cauliflower rice, or whole wheat pasta for a twist.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Broccoli and Chicken Casserole is a classic family favorite for a reason—easy, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious. It's the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again. Whether for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals, it hits the spot every time.
Give it a try, and let me know how yours turns out.