Have you ever craved a comforting, hearty meal that brings everyone to the table with enthusiasm? Our delicious Chicken Broccoli Casserole is just the dish. Packed with flavorful chicken, nutritious broccoli, and a creamy sauce, it’s a perfect blend that tantalizes your taste buds while giving you an excellent source of protein and vitamins. This classic recipe is a true crowd-pleaser and makes great leftovers for the next day’s lunch. Let’s dive in and learn how to make this incredible casserole.
This recipe holds a special place in my heart, as it reminds me of the cozy weekends spent with family at my grandmother’s house. As a kid, I fondly recall the delicious aroma of this dish wafting through the house, signaling that it was dinnertime. It became a tradition for us, with my grandmother often letting me assist in the kitchen, carefully teaching me the art of combining flavors. Now, making it for my own family brings back those cherished memories, and I love seeing my kids enjoy it just as much as I did.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are numerous reasons why this Chicken Broccoli Casserole will become a go-to meal for your family:
- Time-Saving: The preparation is straightforward, allowing you more time to spend with family and less in the kitchen.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with ingredients commonly found in your pantry and fridge, it’s affordable yet doesn’t compromise on flavor.
- Nutritious: Broccoli is a superfood packed with vitamins and minerals, while chicken provides a great source of protein.
- Comfort Food: The creamy sauce and gooey cheese create a comforting warmth that satisfies any craving.
Ingredients Notes
Here’s what you’ll need to put this classic dish together and some tips on selecting and substituting ingredients:
- Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. You can substitute with chicken thighs if preferred for a juicier result.
- Broccoli: Fresh florets are ideal, but frozen broccoli works well in a pinch. Ensure frozen broccoli is thawed and well-drained.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese adds the right amount of tanginess. You can also mix it up with mozzarella for a milder flavor.
- Rice: For a fuller dish, incorporate cooked brown rice or quinoa as a base, adding nutrients and helping to make it more filling.
- Condensed Soup: Cream of chicken soup lends the casserole its classic creamy texture. For a homemade touch, you can prepare your own mix using broth and cream.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper for enhanced flavor. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a little olive oil, cooking the chicken until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
Step 2
While the chicken cooks, steam the broccoli until it’s just tender. If you’re using frozen broccoli, thaw it thoroughly and pat dry to remove excess moisture, preventing a soggy casserole.
Step 3
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, broccoli, condensed soup, and 1 cup of cheese. Stir everything together until well-mixed, ensuring the sauce evenly coats all pieces.
Step 4
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top for a delectable cheese crust. For extra crunch, you can also top it with breadcrumbs or a panko-cheese mixture.
Step 5
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to set well.
Storage Options
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This casserole also freezes beautifully. To freeze, place in a suitable container and keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.
Variations & Substitutions
For a gluten-free version, ensure the condensed soup and any toppings used, like breadcrumbs, are gluten-free. To make this dish low-carb, skip the rice, and increase the broccoli and chicken amounts. For a different flavor profile, swap out cheddar for pepper jack cheese and add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering. Serve it with a side of Crusty Bread and a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It’s also an excellent dish for meal prepping or a quick weekday dinner after a busy day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. It’s a perfect option for those who like to plan meals ahead. Simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.
Is it okay to use other vegetables? Definitely! Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or cauliflower. Just be sure to pre-cook harder veggies to ensure they bake evenly with the rest of the casserole.
What should I do if my casserole is too watery? If the casserole turns out watery, it could be due to excess moisture in the broccoli or chicken. Make sure all ingredients are thoroughly drained before mixing. If needed, you can place it back in the oven uncovered for a few more minutes to evaporate some of the liquid.
Chicken Broccoli Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups chicken, cooked and shredded Use rotisserie chicken for convenience
- 3 cups broccoli florets Fresh or frozen
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can cream of chicken soup 10.5 oz can
- 0.5 cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt To taste
- 0.5 tsp pepper To taste
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add cooked chicken and broccoli florets to the mixture and stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until bubbly and cheese is melted.
