Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting warmth of Broccoli Chicken Casserole fresh out of the oven. Picture tender pieces of chicken nestled in a creamy, cheesy sauce, paired with crisp-tender broccoli and perfectly cooked rice. This crowd-pleasing dinner is a savior on those busy weeknights, and it's so easy to make, you’ll have it in the oven in no time.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe when looking for a simple way to use up leftover chicken and some broccoli florets that needed saving. Now, it’s a regular on our dinner table, loved by kids and adults alike for its hearty, satisfying flavors. Let’s dive in and learn why this dish is a must-try.

Why You'll Love This Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Get ready to embrace a new favorite, comfort-filled weeknight dinner. This Broccoli Chicken Casserole checks all the boxes for a meal that's hearty, flavorful, and so simple to prepare.

First off, this recipe comes together incredibly quickly. With only a few main ingredients and minimal prep work, you can assemble everything in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for nights when you're running short on time but still want to serve something homemade.

The flavors are out of this world. The creamy, cheesy sauce coats every piece of chicken, rice, and broccoli, making each bite a burst of deliciousness. Even picky eaters will find it hard to resist.

It's also a complete meal in one dish. Packed with lean protein from the chicken, wholesome vegetables from the broccoli, and filling rice, this casserole has everything you need to feel satisfied. Just add a side of crusty bread or a simple salad, and dinner is done!

Lastly, this dish is wonderfully versatile. You can easily adapt it to your preferences or what you have in your pantry, which makes it perfect for those times when you need to get creative with your ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Broccoli Chicken Casserole lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to make a comforting meal. Let’s take a closer look at some key components.

The chicken is the star of the show, providing lean, tender protein. You can use rotisserie chicken, leftover roasted chicken, or even poach a couple of chicken breasts specifically for this recipe. Just make sure it's cooked and cut into bite-sized pieces for even distribution.

Next, the broccoli adds a lovely, vibrant touch. Fresh broccoli florets work best, giving the casserole a nice texture and slight crunch. However, you can use frozen broccoli if that’s what you have; just make sure to thaw and drain it well to prevent excess moisture in the dish.

White rice is the base that brings everything together. I prefer using cooked long-grain rice for a perfect texture. If you’re short on time, pre-cooked rice or even leftover rice from a previous meal can work beautifully.

The creamy sauce is made with a combination of cream of chicken soup and sour cream, creating a rich and luscious coating. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute with Greek yogurt, but the sour cream adds that extra depth of flavor that makes the dish irresistible.

Finally, don’t forget the shredded cheddar cheese. It melts into the sauce, adding a gooey, delicious finish to the casserole. For a sharper flavor, feel free to use extra sharp cheddar, or even mix in some mozzarella for extra creaminess.

You’ll also need a large casserole dish for baking. A 9x13-inch dish works well, ensuring that everything cooks evenly and comes out bubbly and golden.

How To Make This Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Creating this mouthwatering Broccoli Chicken Casserole is easier than you might think. Let me walk you through the steps for a hassle-free dinner.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a 9x13-inch casserole dish. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and makes for easy cleanup later.

While your oven heats up, steam or blanch the broccoli florets until they're just tender. Be careful not to overcook them – you want them to stay bright green and have a slight crunch, as they’ll continue cooking in the oven.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked, shredded chicken, the steamed broccoli, and cooked rice. Add the cream of chicken soup and sour cream, and stir everything together until well combined. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder for added flavor.

Transfer the mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out in an even layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. This will melt into a golden, bubbly crust as the casserole bakes.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through. The edges should be slightly golden, and the aroma will fill your kitchen with the comforting scent of home-cooked goodness.

Once baked, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to set, making it easier to scoop and serve.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, this Broccoli Chicken Casserole stores beautifully, making it a great meal prep option for the week.

To refrigerate, transfer any cooled leftovers into an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge. When you're ready to reheat, simply microwave individual portions until warmed through, or cover the casserole dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until hot.

For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole. Place cooled portions in a freezer-safe container or wrap the whole dish tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating is simple. For best results, cover the dish with foil to prevent the cheese from drying out, and bake at 350°F until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

This Broccoli Chicken Casserole is endlessly adaptable, so you can customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Looking to make it gluten-free? Simply use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensure your rice is certified gluten-free. The flavor remains just as delicious!

If you’re not a fan of broccoli, feel free to swap it out for another veggie. Cauliflower florets, diced zucchini, or even chopped spinach make great substitutes. Just be sure to lightly cook them first to maintain the right texture.

Want to add more protein? Throw in a handful of cooked chickpeas or some diced turkey. This is a great way to repurpose holiday leftovers into a new, tasty meal.

For a more flavorful twist, you can mix in some diced onions or sautéed mushrooms. They add an extra layer of depth to the casserole and pair wonderfully with the creamy, cheesy sauce.

Experimenting with different cheeses can also elevate this dish. Try swapping some of the cheddar for pepper jack if you like a little kick, or add parmesan for a salty, nutty flavor.

This Broccoli Chicken Casserole is so forgiving and easy to make your own. Don't be afraid to get creative and tailor it to what your family loves most!

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