Sausage and Spinach Breakfast Casserole

A classic Chicken Broccoli Bake is a warm, comforting casserole that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, creamy sauce, and melted cheese—all baked to golden perfection. It’s a perfect solution for a wholesome weeknight dinner, and it’s incredibly easy to prepare using simple pantry staples.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Broccoli Bake is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s quick to put together, family-friendly, and full of flavor. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or meal prepping for the week, this casserole offers everything you want in a dish: protein, vegetables, and a creamy, cheesy base. It’s also highly customizable and can be adapted to include rice, pasta, or low-carb ingredients.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
• Cooked broccoli florets
• Condensed cream of chicken soup
• Sour cream
• Ground black pepper
• Shredded Cheddar cheese
• Bread crumbs
• Melted butter

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked broccoli, condensed soup, sour cream, and black pepper. Add half of the shredded Cheddar cheese and mix well.
3. Spread the mixture evenly into a greased 2-quart baking dish.
4. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
5. In a separate bowl, stir together the bread crumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the dish is bubbling and the top is golden brown.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and baking requires 30 to 35 minutes, making the total time around 45 to 50 minutes.

Variations

• With Rice: Add 2 cups of cooked white or brown rice to the mixture for a heartier, more filling dish.
• With Pasta: Substitute cooked rice with 2 cups of cooked pasta such as penne or rotini.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace the cream of chicken soup with a low-carb cheese sauce and use crushed pork rinds instead of bread crumbs.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a hint of spice.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and increase the broccoli and cheese or add mushrooms for a meat-free option.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cream soup and gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed rice crackers.

Storage/reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual portions on high for 1–2 minutes. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What kind of chicken works best for this recipe?

Cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken is ideal for convenience, but you can also use poached or baked chicken breast.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

How do I prevent the topping from becoming soggy?

Ensure the breadcrumb topping is well mixed with melted butter and bake uncovered for a crispy finish.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, carrots, cauliflower, or peas make great additions to this versatile casserole.

Is it necessary to pre-cook the broccoli?

Yes, pre-cooking the broccoli ensures it’s tender and evenly cooked in the final dish.

What’s a good substitute for cream of chicken soup?

You can make a homemade version with butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk thickened on the stove.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Definitely. Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Swiss cheese are all great alternatives or additions.

How do I freeze Chicken Broccoli Bake?

Assemble and freeze before baking, or freeze leftovers. Wrap tightly in foil or a freezer-safe container.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes, chicken thighs offer a richer flavor and work just as well in this recipe.

Conclusion

This Chicken Broccoli Bake is a dependable, hearty dish perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to share. With its creamy texture, cheesy top, and flexibility in ingredients, it’s bound to become a regular favorite in your meal rotation.

Print