Why Make This Recipe

Broccoli Chicken Cheese Casserole is a comforting dish that brings together tasty ingredients in one easy-to-make meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick, yet satisfying. Not only is it delicious, but it is also a wonderful way to sneak in some veggies for the whole family. This dish is packed with protein from the chicken and nutrition from the broccoli, making it a great choice for a balanced meal.

How to Make Broccoli Chicken Cheese Casserole

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked chicken, diced
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 can cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup milk
1 cup breadcrumbs
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, broccoli, 1/2 cup of the cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the remaining cheese and sprinkle over the casserole.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbling.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Broccoli Chicken Cheese Casserole

Serve this casserole hot from the oven. It’s a great main dish that pairs well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread on the side. You can also enjoy leftovers for lunch the next day!

How to Store Broccoli Chicken Cheese Casserole

If you have any leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.

Tips to Make Broccoli Chicken Cheese Casserole

Use leftover chicken to save time. Rotisserie chicken works great!
Feel free to add other veggies like carrots or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
For a creamy texture, you can add a little more milk or some sour cream.
If you like a bit of spice, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the mix.

Variation

You can switch up the cheese in this recipe. Try using mozzarella or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor. For a healthier touch, you can replace breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or oats.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just thaw and drain it before adding it to the casserole.

2. How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and check that your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free.

3. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for a day before baking. Just bake it longer if it is cold from the fridge.