A comforting and creamy dish, Chicken Broccoli Bake is a classic casserole that combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and melty cheese in a rich, savory sauce. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this meal is easy to prepare and satisfies with every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Broccoli Bake is the ultimate one-dish meal. It’s warm, cheesy, and loaded with protein and vegetables. Ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prepping, it offers great flavor with minimal effort. Using rotisserie chicken and pantry staples, it comes together quickly and bakes to perfection with a crispy topping.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken is ideal)
- Cooked broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- Condensed cream of chicken soup
- Sour cream
- Salt and black pepper
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Bread crumbs
- Melted butter
directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Stir in half of the shredded cheese.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
- In a small bowl, mix the bread crumbs with melted butter until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the buttered bread crumbs over the top of the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbling.
- Allow to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6 to 8 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Use cooked rice or pasta in the mixture for a more filling meal.
- Substitute cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor.
- Swap out cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free soup and bread crumbs.
storage/reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, cover and bake at 325°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.
This casserole also freezes well. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just thaw and drain it before mixing to prevent excess water in the casserole.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
Can I use homemade cream soup instead of canned?
Yes, a homemade roux-based sauce works great as a substitute.
Is this casserole kid-friendly?
Yes, the cheesy and creamy flavors are generally well-loved by kids.
Can I add rice or pasta?
Yes, adding cooked rice or pasta makes the casserole more hearty.
What’s a good side dish to serve with this?
A green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair well.
Can I use different cheese?
Definitely—try mozzarella, Swiss, or a blend for a different taste.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 4 days when stored in a sealed container.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well for up to 2 months.
How do I reheat it without drying it out?
Cover with foil and reheat in the oven at a low temperature, or add a splash of broth when microwaving.
Conclusion
This Chicken Broccoli Bake is a go-to recipe for a delicious and hearty meal that’s easy to throw together. With creamy layers of chicken, broccoli, and cheese topped with crispy breadcrumbs, it’s a family favorite that works for any occasion. Simple, versatile, and satisfying, it’s a dish you’ll come back to time and again.
Print
Chicken Broccoli Bake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
Description
Chicken Broccoli Bake is a creamy, cheesy casserole packed with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a flavorful sauce. It’s a comforting one-dish meal perfect for busy weeknights or make-ahead dinners. This classic favorite is simple, satisfying, and kid-approved, making it a staple in any family meal plan
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed and drained)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or homemade substitute)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (optional topping)
- 2 tbsp melted butter (if using cracker topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Lightly steam broccoli until just tender (about 3–4 minutes) and drain well
- In a large bowl, mix soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper
- Fold in chicken, steamed broccoli, and half of the cheddar cheese
- Spread mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and top with remaining cheese
- If using topping, mix crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden
- Let sit for 5 minutes before serving
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep
- Swap cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or a homemade sauce
- Add cooked rice or quinoa for a more filling option
- Omit cracker topping for a gluten-free version
- Details
Nutrition
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 660mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *