Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting warmth of a Broccoli Chicken Casserole fresh out of the oven. With tender chunks of chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish is a hit every single time. It’s a go-to in our house when we need a crowd-pleasing meal that’s both hearty and wholesome.

I first made this casserole on a chilly evening when I was craving something both filling and nutritious. Little did I know, it would become a staple in our dinner rotation, requested by family and friends alike. Let's dive into why you’ll want to make this tonight!

Why You'll Love This Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Get ready to fall in love with a recipe that’s both nourishing and delicious. This Broccoli Chicken Casserole checks all the boxes for a perfect weeknight meal.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of simple steps, you can assemble everything and let your oven do the hard work. The prep time is minimal, so it’s ideal for busy days when you don’t want to spend too long in the kitchen.

It’s also a fantastic way to get kids (or picky adults) to enjoy their veggies. The cheesy sauce melts over the broccoli and chicken, making every bite irresistibly creamy. Even the most reluctant broccoli eaters will be asking for seconds.

Another thing I love is how customizable this casserole is. You can swap out the protein, add extra vegetables, or even make it vegetarian if you’d like. It’s a flexible, one-pan meal that can cater to different tastes and dietary needs.

Finally, it’s great for meal prep. You can make this casserole ahead of time, and it reheats beautifully. It’s perfect for lunch leftovers or easy make-ahead dinners on nights you know will be hectic.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Broccoli Chicken Casserole lies in its combination of wholesome ingredients and a creamy, comforting sauce. Each element adds to the dish's overall richness and depth of flavor.

Broccoli: Fresh or frozen broccoli florets work well here. If you’re using fresh, cut them into small, bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Frozen is convenient and saves prep time but remember to thaw and drain it well before adding to the dish.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are best for this recipe. You can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for a time-saving option, or cook your own chicken and shred it. Either way, it brings protein and a satisfying heartiness to the dish.

Rice: White rice or brown rice both work wonderfully, but make sure it's cooked before adding it to the casserole. Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and a bit more texture, while white rice keeps things classic and soft.

Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is my top choice. It melts well and adds a deliciously tangy kick to the creamy sauce. Feel free to use a cheese blend if you prefer a more complex flavor profile.

Cream of Chicken Soup: This ingredient is essential for creating the casserole’s rich, velvety sauce. You can use a low-sodium version if you’re watching your salt intake or make your own from scratch for a fresher taste. If you need to make this gluten-free, there are also gluten-free soup options available.

You’ll also need basic pantry staples like garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to season the dish perfectly. If you have a large mixing bowl and a 9x13-inch baking dish, you're all set to assemble this casserole in no time.

How To Make This Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Creating this mouthwatering Broccoli Chicken Casserole is simple and stress-free. Let’s walk through the steps together!

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking. This way, you’ll get those perfect slices that lift out cleanly and beautifully.

While the oven is heating up, cook your rice according to the package instructions if you haven’t already. Set it aside to cool slightly. Next, bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch your broccoli for about 2-3 minutes. This step ensures your broccoli stays bright and crisp-tender, not mushy.

In a large mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken, cooked rice, blanched broccoli, and a can of cream of chicken soup. Season the mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well coated and evenly mixed.

Transfer the mixture to your greased baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer. Top with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese. The cheese will melt into a bubbly, golden crust that’s hard to resist. Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges are lightly browned.

Once it’s done, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This rest time allows the flavors to meld together, and it makes slicing easier.

Storage Options

This Broccoli Chicken Casserole is fantastic for meal prep and leftovers. Store any remaining portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors only get better as it sits, making it perfect for a next-day lunch.

If you want to freeze the casserole, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

For individual servings, you can reheat portions in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or water to keep the casserole moist as it reheats.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this casserole is how adaptable it is to different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas to switch things up!

For a healthier twist, swap out the white rice for cauliflower rice. It’s a great way to sneak in extra veggies and lower the carb content of the dish. You can also use quinoa or farro for a heartier, more nutrient-dense option.

Make it vegetarian by skipping the chicken and doubling up on the broccoli or adding other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. A can of drained and rinsed chickpeas is another excellent protein alternative.

Want more flavor? Try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for heat, or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy depth. You can also swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a smoky gouda.

If you’re a fan of crunchy toppings, sprinkle some buttered breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers over the cheese layer before baking. It adds a deliciously crispy texture that complements the creamy filling perfectly.

The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make this Broccoli Chicken Casserole your own!

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