Creamy Broccoli Chicken Cheese Casserole: A Comforting Family Favorite

---

If you’re searching for a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious cheesy sauce, this Broccoli Chicken Cheese Casserole is your answer. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy family dinners, this casserole brings together wholesome ingredients in a creamy, savory blend that’s sure to satisfy. With its golden, bubbly cheese topping and customizable add-ons, it’s a versatile recipe that can be tailored to your taste. Whether you’re using leftover chicken or a store-bought rotisserie, this dish comes together with minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Casserole

This recipe is a fantastic way to sneak in nutritious broccoli while indulging in the comfort of melted cheese and tender chicken. It’s a one-dish meal that’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. The combination of creamy soup, tangy sour cream, and sharp cheddar creates a rich, satisfying texture, while the optional crunchy toppings add a delightful contrast. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, so you can make it ahead for those hectic days when cooking feels like a chore.

Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

To create this comforting casserole, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed (pro tip: a rotisserie chicken from your local grocery store saves time and adds extra flavor)
• 3 ½ cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen (if using frozen, thaw and drain well to avoid excess moisture)
• 2 ¼ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided (reserve ¾ cup for topping)
• 1 cup full-fat sour cream (for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works as a substitute)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup (look for low-sodium if preferred)
• ¾ tsp garlic powder (or substitute with 1-2 minced garlic cloves for a fresher taste)
• ½ tsp onion powder (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional toppings:
• ¼ cup cooked bacon crumbles for a smoky, savory kick
• ½ cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz) or panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish
• 2 tbsp melted butter (to mix with breadcrumbs for extra richness)

Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Optional: small skillet for toasting breadcrumbs

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a casserole that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of butter to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch the florets for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender, then drain well. For frozen broccoli, thaw completely and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess water, which helps keep the casserole from becoming soggy.
3. Mix the Casserole Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded or cubed chicken, broccoli florets, 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, condensed cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, and onion powder (if using). Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly coated. Taste the mixture and season with salt and pepper as needed—be cautious with salt if using a salty cheese or bacon topping.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining ¾ cup of cheddar cheese over the top for a gooey, golden finish.
5. Add Optional Toppings: For extra texture, sprinkle cooked bacon crumbles over the cheese. Alternatively, mix crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and scatter them across the top for a crispy, buttery crust.
6. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges. If the topping isn’t browned to your liking, switch the oven to broil for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
7. Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to set, making it easier to serve. Scoop generous portions onto plates and enjoy!

Preparation Tips

• Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if starting from cold.
• Freezer-Friendly: Prepare the casserole without the topping, wrap tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking, then add the cheese and optional toppings just before cooking.
• Chicken Options: Use leftover grilled, baked, or poached chicken breast, or opt for rotisserie chicken for convenience. Thighs work well too, adding a bit more richness.
• Broccoli Prep: To save time, purchase pre-cut broccoli florets or use a bag of frozen broccoli, but ensure it’s fully thawed and drained to avoid a watery casserole.

Variations to Try

• Low-Carb Version: Skip the breadcrumb or cracker topping and add extra cheese or bacon for a keto-friendly twist.
• Vegetarian Twist: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas, and use cream of mushroom soup instead of chicken.
• Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the casserole mixture for a subtle heat.
• Grain Addition: Stir in 1 cup of cooked rice, quinoa, or farro to make the dish heartier and stretch it further.
• Cheese Swap: Experiment with cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheddar and gouda for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a heartier spread, serve alongside garlic bread, roasted potatoes, or a bowl of creamy tomato soup. It’s also a fantastic addition to holiday tables or potluck gatherings, as it reheats well and feeds a crowd.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes.
• Freezer: Freeze baked or unbaked casserole (without toppings) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or baking.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving, Based on 8 Servings)

• Calories: 350-400
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
  Note: Values vary based on specific ingredients and optional toppings.

Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of this Broccoli Chicken Cheese Casserole lies in its simplicity and versatility. The cream of chicken soup and sour cream create a velvety sauce that binds the ingredients together, while the cheddar cheese adds a sharp, melty goodness that’s hard to resist. Broccoli brings a pop of color and nutrition, and the optional toppings let you customize the dish to suit your preferences. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or adventurous foodies, this casserole is a guaranteed hit.

---