Broccoli Chicken Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that brings together tender chunks of chicken, fresh broccoli florets, and a creamy, cheesy sauce baked to golden perfection. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, with just the right amount of crisp on top and softness inside.
I love making this casserole when I want something easy but satisfying for dinner. It’s great because you can toss in whatever you have on hand—sometimes I add a bit of rice or pasta to stretch it out, and other times I’ll sprinkle extra cheese on top because, well, who can say no to that? This dish always ends up being a family favorite at our table.
One of my favorite ways to serve this casserole is with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up all the creamy sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight, but it also travels well for potlucks or bringing to friends. Honestly, it’s one of those recipes that feels like a classic dinner that everyone loves and asks for again and again.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast works great here. If you prefer, rotisserie chicken or even leftover cooked chicken can save time. For a lighter option, swap chicken for turkey.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is best for texture and flavor. You can use frozen broccoli too; just thaw and drain it well to avoid extra moisture.
Pasta: Macaroni or small shells hold the sauce nicely. If gluten-free, try gluten-free pasta or substitute with cooked rice or quinoa for a different texture.
Cream of chicken soup: This adds creaminess and flavor. For a homemade touch, make a quick white sauce with milk and flour, seasoned well. Mushroom or cream of celery soups work as alternatives too.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a bold flavor and melts beautifully. You can mix in mozzarella for stretchiness or use Colby or Monterey Jack for a milder taste.
Breadcrumb topping: Panko gives a nice crunch, but regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers work well too. For a gluten-free option, try crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crunchy Topping Without It Burning?
Getting that golden crunchy top is all about timing and moisture control. Here are some tips:
- Before baking, toss the breadcrumbs with melted butter. This helps them brown evenly and adds flavor.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole so it bakes uniformly.
- Cover the dish loosely with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking to let everything heat through without drying out the topping.
- Remove the foil for the last 10-15 minutes. This exposes the topping to direct heat, allowing it to crisp up and turn golden brown without burning.
- Keep an eye on the casserole toward the end of baking. If the topping browns too fast, tent foil loosely to protect it while the inside finishes cooking.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – Perfect for large, even baking and easy serving.
- Large mixing bowl – To combine the casserole ingredients smoothly.
- Small bowl – For mixing the breadcrumb topping with melted butter.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
- Stirring spoon or spatula – For mixing everything together easily.
- Oven – For baking the casserole until bubbly and golden.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Switch up the cheese—try Colby, Monterey Jack, or a blend for different flavor profiles.
- Add cooked bacon or ham for extra meatiness and smoky flavor.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for added veggies and depth.
- For a spicy kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce before baking.
Broccoli Chicken Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 3 cups broccoli florets, steamed or blanched
- 1 ½ cups cooked macaroni or small pasta shells
Sauce and Flavor:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup chopped onion (optional)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cheese and Topping:
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- Fresh herbs (parsley or thyme), for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and roughly 25-30 minutes to bake. Plan for a quick rest after baking, so the casserole sets nicely before serving. In total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a weekday dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Ready:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to keep everything from sticking.
2. Mix the Creamy Sauce:
In a large bowl, stir together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and combined.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the cooked chicken, broccoli florets, cooked pasta, chopped onion (if using), and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce. Mix everything together well, so the flavors blend nicely.
4. Build Your Casserole:
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Then, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
5. Add a Crunchy Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter until the crumbs are all coated. Sprinkle this buttery crumb mixture evenly over the casserole for a nice crispy top.
6. Bake and Finish:
Bake your casserole uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and the breadcrumb topping turns golden brown. Once done, take it out of the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to set up.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle fresh, chopped parsley or thyme on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your cozy, cheesy broccoli chicken casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well! Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture before adding it to the casserole. This helps avoid a watery dish.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally for even warmth.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream of Chicken Soup?
You can substitute with homemade white sauce (béchamel) or a mixture of sour cream and chicken broth. Mushroom or cream of celery soups also make tasty alternatives if you want a different flavor twist.
