Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe

There's something about the creamy, cheesy goodness of Broccoli Chicken Casserole that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and perfectly cooked rice all come together under a blanket of melted cheese for the ultimate comfort food experience.

this Recipe

I discovered this recipe during a particularly busy week when I needed something hearty but easy to prepare. Now, it’s my go-to dish for potlucks, busy weeknights, and cozy family dinners. Let me show you why this casserole is about to become your new favorite.

Why You'll Love This Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that’s equal parts delicious and practical. This Broccoli Chicken Casserole is as easy to prepare as it is satisfying to eat, making it a hit for cooks and diners alike.

First and foremost, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. You can have it prepped and ready for the oven in under 20 minutes, giving you more time to unwind while it bakes to perfection.

It’s also a complete meal in one dish. With protein from the chicken, healthy veggies like broccoli, and the filling power of rice, this casserole is balanced, nutritious, and oh-so-satisfying.

And let’s not forget the creamy, cheesy topping. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or cheese lovers, this golden, bubbling crust will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Lastly, it’s endlessly customizable. Swap out ingredients based on what’s in your pantry, or adjust the flavors to suit your family’s tastes. No matter how you make it, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to this casserole’s irresistible flavor is its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in creating that perfect harmony of textures and flavors.

• Chicken: This recipe calls for cooked, shredded chicken. Rotisserie chicken is a time-saving option, but leftover grilled or baked chicken works beautifully too. The rich, savory flavor of chicken provides the perfect protein base.
• Broccoli: Use fresh broccoli florets for the best texture and flavor. Quickly blanching them ensures they stay vibrant and crisp-tender in the casserole. If you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli is a convenient substitute; just be sure to thaw and drain it well.
• Rice: Long-grain white rice or brown rice is ideal for this recipe. Precooked or leftover rice can help you save time. The rice absorbs the creamy sauce, giving each bite a comforting consistency.
• Cheese: A blend of cheddar cheese and Parmesan takes this casserole to the next level. Cheddar melts beautifully, while Parmesan adds a savory depth of flavor.
• Creamy Base: A mixture of cream of chicken soup and sour cream creates the luxurious, creamy texture that ties everything together. If you prefer to avoid canned soups, you can make a homemade cream sauce with butter, flour, and chicken broth.
• Seasonings: A touch of garlic powder, onion powder, and a dash of paprika enhance the flavors without overwhelming the dish.

You’ll also need a 9x13-inch baking dish and aluminum foil for covering the casserole during baking.

How To Make This Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Creating this dish is as simple as layering a few delicious ingredients and letting the oven do the hard work. Let’s break it down step by step.

1. Preheat and Prep
   Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your baking dish with a light coat of cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook and Blanch
   If you haven’t already, cook your rice and shred your chicken. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and blanch your broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. Mix the Creamy Base
   In a large bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and your seasonings. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese for a creamy, cheesy sauce.
4. Layer the Ingredients
   Spread the cooked rice evenly across the bottom of your baking dish. Layer the shredded chicken on top, followed by the blanched broccoli. Pour the creamy sauce over the top, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
5. Top with Cheese
   Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan over the casserole. Cover the dish with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning.
6. Bake and Serve
   Bake the casserole, covered, for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

This dish takes about 45 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy evenings. The result? A comforting, cheesy casserole that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Storage Options

This casserole stores beautifully, so you can enjoy leftovers or prep it in advance for a stress-free meal.

• Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• Freeze: This casserole is freezer-friendly! Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
• Reheating Tips: To maintain the casserole’s creamy texture, reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes. Add a splash of milk or broth if it looks too dry.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Broccoli Chicken Casserole is its adaptability. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Protein Swap: Replace chicken with turkey or ham for a fun twist. Rotisserie chicken or leftover Thanksgiving turkey are excellent options.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add extra veggies like mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini. Swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom soup to keep it vegetarian.
• Low-Carb Version: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb casserole that still packs a flavor punch.
• Extra Crunch: Top the casserole with crushed Ritz crackers, breadcrumbs, or fried onions for added texture.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the creamy sauce for a spicy variation.

This recipe is endlessly customizable, so don’t hesitate to experiment and make it your own. Whether you stick to the classic or try a new twist, the result will always be delicious.

This Broccoli Chicken Casserole is a surefire hit for any occasion. Quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Happy cooking!

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