The Best Chicken Broccoli Casserole Recipe

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!

The Best Chicken Broccoli Casserole Recipe

getcakerecipes

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.

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

• Large baking dish (9×13 recommended)

• Mixing bowl

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Whisk or spoon for mixing

• Aluminum foil

• 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

• 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.

Keyword Chicken Broccoli Casserole