There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm, cheesy casserole, and this Broccoli Chicken Casserole is the ultimate cozy dinner. Packed with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce, it’s a one-dish wonder that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

I first made this recipe on a chilly evening when I wanted something hearty but also quick and family-friendly. It’s become a go-to dinner in our house, and with just a few simple ingredients, it’s easy to see why. Let’s dig into this deliciously satisfying casserole!

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Chicken Casserole

This recipe combines wholesome ingredients with creamy, cheesy goodness to create a dish that’s both indulgent and nutritious. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your dinner rotation:

Comfort Food Favorite: With its rich sauce and gooey cheese topping, this casserole is the definition of comfort food.
Kid-Approved: The cheesy flavor and tender chicken make it a hit with picky eaters. Even kids who aren’t fans of broccoli will love this dish!
Easy and Quick: Using rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken speeds up prep time, and the casserole is ready in under an hour.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or freezing for a busy weeknight dinner.
Balanced and Nutritious: Broccoli adds a burst of color and nutrients, while the chicken provides lean protein.

Let’s break down the simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that bring this dish together.

Ingredients Notes

Each ingredient in this casserole plays a key role in its deliciousness. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken: Shredded or diced cooked chicken works best. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option, but you can also use baked or poached chicken breasts.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are ideal, but frozen broccoli can also be used. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This classic casserole ingredient forms the creamy base of the dish. You can use homemade cream of chicken soup if you prefer.
Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and richness to the sauce. Greek yogurt works as a lighter substitute.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar melts beautifully into the casserole. For extra flavor, use sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses.
Rice or Pasta: Cooked white rice or small pasta like penne or rotini can be added to make the dish heartier. This is optional but highly recommended for a complete meal.
Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper add depth and flavor.
Breadcrumbs (Optional): A sprinkle of breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter adds a crispy, golden topping.

How to Make Broccoli Chicken Casserole

This casserole is simple to assemble and perfect for beginners or seasoned cooks alike. Here’s the step-by-step process:

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the Ingredients: Steam or blanch the broccoli until just tender, about 3-4 minutes. If using fresh broccoli, cut it into bite-sized florets. Shred or dice the chicken if it’s not already prepared.
Make the Sauce: In a large bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and the seasonings. Stir until smooth and well combined.
Combine the Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken, broccoli, and optional rice or pasta to the bowl. Gently stir until everything is coated in the creamy sauce.
Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top. For extra crunch, add a layer of buttered breadcrumbs over the cheese.
Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch if desired.

Storage Options

This casserole is perfect for leftovers and meal prep. Here’s how to store it for maximum freshness:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Freezer: Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Reheating Tips: To prevent the casserole from drying out, cover it with foil while reheating. Add a splash of milk or chicken broth if the sauce seems too thick.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is highly versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas:

Add Bacon: Sprinkle cooked, crumbled bacon over the top for a smoky, savory twist.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms to make the casserole vegetarian.
Switch the Cheese: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend cheese for a different flavor profile.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of hot sauce for a little heat.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the cream of chicken soup is gluten-free.

Why You’ll Love It

This Broccoli Chicken Casserole is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and hearty. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or bringing it to a potluck, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its comforting flavors and easy preparation, it’s a dish you’ll turn to again and again.