Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole: A Creamy, Cheesy Comfort Food Classic

Craving a warm, comforting dish that’s both easy to make and incredibly delicious? Look no further than this Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole! This recipe is a family favorite, perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks. Imagine tender, juicy chicken mingling with vibrant broccoli florets, all swimming in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Then, picture that delightful mixture topped with a crunchy, buttery cracker crust. That’s the magic of this Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole – a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave you wanting more. It’s the kind of dish that evokes feelings of warmth, nostalgia, and pure culinary satisfaction. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is surprisingly simple to master, ensuring a delicious and stress-free meal every time. Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this irresistible casserole!

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole Recipe

This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole recipe isn’t just another casserole; it’s a culinary experience. What makes it so special? Let’s dive into the reasons why this dish will quickly become a staple in your kitchen:

• Unbeatable Flavor Combination: The creamy cheddar cheese sauce, the tender chicken, and the bright, fresh broccoli create an irresistible flavor profile. It’s a harmonious blend of savory and slightly sweet.
• Effortless Preparation: This casserole requires minimal prep time. You can even use rotisserie chicken for an even faster meal! The simple steps and straightforward instructions make it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This dish is a guaranteed hit with everyone. It’s comforting, familiar, and satisfies even the pickiest eaters. It’s a great option for family dinners, potlucks, or even a casual get-together.
• Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, add other vegetables, or use different crackers for a unique twist. The recipe is your canvas, so let your creativity flow!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and bake it just before serving, making it ideal for meal prepping or entertaining.
• Freezer-Friendly: Assemble the casserole and freeze it unbaked for a future meal. Simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake according to the instructions.
• Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are readily available and relatively inexpensive, making this a delicious and affordable meal option for your family.

This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a taste of home, a symbol of comfort, and a testament to the simplicity of truly delicious food. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, sparking conversation and creating lasting memories around the dinner table.

Why You Should Try This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole Recipe

In a world of endless recipe options, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. But trust us, this Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole is worth your time and effort. Here’s why you should give it a try:

• Delicious and Satisfying: This casserole delivers a satisfying and flavorful meal that will leave you feeling full and happy. The creamy sauce, the tender chicken, and the crunchy topping create a delightful textural experience.
• A Simple Solution for Weeknight Dinners: Busy schedules don’t have to mean sacrificing delicious home-cooked meals. This casserole is quick to assemble and bake, making it a perfect weeknight dinner solution.
• A Perfect Potluck Dish: This casserole travels well and is always a crowd-pleaser at potlucks and gatherings. It’s a guaranteed hit that will impress your friends and family.
• A Great Way to Use Leftovers: If you have leftover cooked chicken, this casserole is a fantastic way to repurpose it. You can transform simple leftovers into a hearty and delicious meal.
• A Healthy and Nutritious Option: This casserole is a good source of protein and vegetables, providing a balanced and healthy meal option for your family. It’s a delicious way to sneak in extra veggies.
• A Recipe That’s Easy to Customize: You can adjust the recipe to fit your preferences and dietary needs. Add different vegetables, use alternative cheeses, or experiment with different cracker toppings to create your own unique version.
• A Recipe for Creating Memories: Cooking and sharing this Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole with loved ones is a great way to create warm and happy memories in the kitchen. The aromas alone will fill your home with comfort.

Don’t just take our word for it; try this Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole and experience the culinary magic for yourself. You won’t be disappointed!

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole

Gathering the right ingredients and having the right tools on hand are crucial for a successful cooking experience. Let’s break down what you’ll need for this Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole:

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and cubed (or rotisserie chicken): The star of the show! Using rotisserie chicken significantly reduces prep time. Look for chicken breasts that are moist and tender for the best results. Keyword: Cooked Chicken Breast
• 1 (16 ounce) package frozen broccoli florets, thawed and drained: Frozen broccoli florets are convenient and readily available. Thaw them completely and drain well to prevent a watery casserole. Keywords: Frozen Broccoli Florets, Broccoli
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup: This adds a creamy base and subtle mushroom flavor to the casserole. You can substitute with cream of chicken soup for a richer chicken flavor. Keyword: Cream of Mushroom Soup
• 1/2 cup milk: Milk adds creaminess and helps to bind the ingredients together. Whole milk is recommended for the richest texture, but 2% or skim milk will also work. Keyword: Milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is the classic choice, but you can experiment with other varieties. The sharper the cheese, the more intense the flavor. Keywords: Cheddar Cheese, Shredded Cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional, for extra flavor): Monterey Jack cheese adds a milder, creamy counterpoint to the cheddar, enhancing the overall flavor profile. It’s totally optional, but highly recommended! Keyword: Monterey Jack Cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions: Green onions add a fresh, slightly oniony flavor and a pop of color. Chives or shallots can be substituted. Keyword: Green Onions
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder adds a subtle garlic flavor without the need for chopping fresh garlic. Keyword: Garlic Powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Onion powder enhances the savory flavors of the casserole. Keyword: Onion Powder
• Salt and pepper to taste: These seasonings are essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the dish. Adjust the amount to your preference. Keywords: Salt, Pepper
• 1 1/2 cups crushed Ritz crackers (or other similar crackers): Ritz crackers provide a classic, crunchy topping. You can substitute with crushed buttery crackers, bread crumbs, or even crushed potato chips for a different texture. Keywords: Ritz Crackers, Crushed Crackers
• 1/4 cup melted butter: Melted butter binds the cracker crumbs and adds a rich, buttery flavor to the topping. Keyword: Melted Butter

Utensils:

• 9×13 inch baking dish: This is the standard size for this casserole. Make sure it’s oven-safe.
• Large bowl: For combining all the casserole ingredients.
• Smaller bowl: For mixing the cracker crumbs and melted butter.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the casserole ingredients.
• Grater: If you’re not using pre-shredded cheese.
• Food processor or zip-top bag: For crushing the Ritz crackers (a zip-top bag and rolling pin work well too!).
• Oven mitts or pot holders: For safely handling the hot baking dish.

Detailed Recipe Steps for Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole

Now for the fun part! Let’s walk through the steps to create this amazing Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole cooks evenly and reaches the perfect temperature. Important: Don’t skip this step!
2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This prevents the casserole from sticking to the dish and makes it easier to serve. Use cooking spray, butter, or even a little oil.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, milk, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese (if using), green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined. Tip: Add the cheese gradually, ensuring it’s fully incorporated before adding more. This prevents clumping.
4. Pour the chicken and broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly to ensure even cooking.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter. Mix until the crackers are evenly coated with butter. Tip: For extra crispy topping, toast the cracker crumbs in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes before adding the butter.
6. Sprinkle the cracker crumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. This creates the delicious, crunchy topping.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time, as ovens can vary. The casserole is done when the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly and heated through. Important: Avoid overbaking, as this can dry out the casserole.
8. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and prevents burns. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips and Variations for Your Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole

This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some tips and variations to help you personalize it:

• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses! Try a blend of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan for a more sophisticated flavor. You could also use pepper jack for a spicier kick.
• Vegetable Additions: Add other vegetables like diced carrots, peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. Roasted diced red peppers would also add a lovely sweetness and color.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for more heat.
• Herb Enhancements: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can add a delightful aromatic dimension. Add a teaspoon or two of dried herbs at the same time as the garlic and onion powder.
• Topping Alternatives: Instead of Ritz crackers, try using crushed potato chips, bread crumbs, or even crushed pretzels for a different texture and flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free Ritz cracker alternatives.
• Creamy Sauce Alternatives: For a lighter version, use a mixture of Greek yogurt and milk instead of cream of mushroom soup. You can also use a homemade cheese sauce.
• Vegan Adaptation: Use vegan cream of mushroom soup, plant-based milk, and vegan cheese alternatives. Experiment with different brands to find the best flavors for your preference.
• Avoid Overbaking: Overbaking can dry out the casserole. Start checking for doneness around the 20-minute mark. A golden-brown topping and bubbly filling indicate it’s ready.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Casserole Dish: Ensure the casserole isn’t overcrowded. The ingredients need space to cook evenly. If necessary, use a larger baking dish.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole

This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole isn’t just delicious; it also offers nutritional benefits. While precise nutritional information varies depending on the specific ingredients used, a typical serving provides a good source of:

• Protein: From the chicken breast, essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Calcium: From the cheese, crucial for strong bones and teeth.
• Vitamin C: From the broccoli, a powerful antioxidant that supports immune function. Broccoli is also a good source of Vitamin K, fiber, and folate.
• Vitamin D: Some cheeses are fortified with vitamin D which is essential for calcium absorption and bone health.
• Fiber: From the broccoli, which promotes digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels.

However, it’s important to be mindful of the sodium and fat content. Using lower-sodium ingredients and reducing the amount of cheese can help to lower the overall sodium and fat intake. Consider using reduced-fat cheese and whole wheat crackers to increase the nutritional value.

FAQs

Conclusion

This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole recipe is a true comfort food classic, perfect for any occasion. Its creamy, cheesy goodness, combined with the tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, creates a flavor sensation that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Remember to experiment with different cheeses, vegetables, and cracker toppings to create your own unique twist on this recipe. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with us in the comments section below! Let us know how your Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole turned out, and feel free to share your own variations and tips. And don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family – they’ll thank you for it! Happy cooking!

For more delicious recipe ideas, be sure to check out our other amazing recipes like this 3-Ingredient Sausage Cream Cheese Dip or this Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole! Both are perfect for your next gathering.

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole

A comforting and easy-to-make casserole featuring tender chicken, broccoli, and a creamy cheddar cheese sauce, topped with a crunchy Ritz cracker crust.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine American, Comfort Food

Servings 6 servings

Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

• 9x13 inch Baking Dish
• Large bowl
• Small Bowl

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cooked and cubed, or use 1.5 lbs rotisserie chicken
• 1 16 ounce package Frozen broccoli florets thawed and drained
• 1 10.75 ounce can Condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup Milk
• 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup Shredded Monterey Jack cheese optional
• 1/4 cup Chopped green onions
• 1/2 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon Onion powder
• to taste Salt and pepper
• 1 1/2 cups Crushed Ritz crackers
• 1/4 cup Melted butter

Instructions

 

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
• In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, milk, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese (if using), green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
• Pour the chicken and broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish.
• In a separate small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter.
• Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture. You can also substitute other crackers for the Ritz crackers, such as crushed buttery oyster crackers or bread crumbs.

Keyword broccoli cheddar casserole, comfort food, easy chicken casserole, Easy Recipe, family recipe, weeknight dinner