Chicken Broccoli Bake is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting casserole that’s perfect for a family dinner. Made with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce, this dish is baked to golden perfection with a crispy topping. It’s an easy and delicious meal that comes together with simple ingredients!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
- One-Dish Meal – Everything bakes together for convenience.
- Creamy & Cheesy – A rich, comforting texture with plenty of flavor.
- Great for Meal Prep – Make ahead and reheat for easy lunches or dinners.
- Customizable – Add extra veggies, different cheeses, or protein swaps.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast (cooked and shredded)
- Fresh broccoli florets
- Cream of chicken soup (or homemade equivalent)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt and black pepper
- Italian seasoning
- Butter
- Bread crumbs or crushed crackers (for topping)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Broccoli – Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- Mix the Sauce – In a large bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Assemble the Casserole – In a greased baking dish, layer the cooked chicken and blanched broccoli. Pour the creamy sauce over the top and spread evenly.
- Add the Topping – Melt butter and mix it with bread crumbs or crushed crackers. Sprinkle over the casserole for a crispy, golden topping.
- Bake – Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve – Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Make It Healthier – Use low-fat Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and reduced-fat cheese.
- Spicy Version – Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
- Extra Veggies – Stir in mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrients.
- Different Cheese – Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Swiss for a unique flavor.
- Low-Carb/Keto – Replace the bread crumbs with crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly version.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Just thaw and drain it well before adding it to the casserole.
Do I have to cook the chicken first?
Yes, for the best texture. You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken for convenience.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
Try a homemade version by mixing butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk for a creamy base.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
How do I make the topping crispier?
Bake uncovered for the last 5 minutes or broil for a golden, crunchy topping.
Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! Try cooked turkey, ham, or even shrimp for a variation.
What side dishes go well with this bake?
It pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.
Can I add pasta or rice?
Yes! Cooked pasta or rice can be mixed in before baking for a heartier dish.
How do I keep the casserole from getting watery?
Drain the broccoli well and avoid overcooking before baking to prevent excess moisture.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried seasoning?
Yes! Fresh parsley, thyme, or basil can enhance the flavor beautifully.
Conclusion
Chicken Broccoli Bake is a comforting, cheesy, and easy-to-make casserole perfect for busy weeknights. With its creamy texture, crispy topping, and hearty ingredients, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Make it ahead, customize it to your taste, and enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort!
PrintChicken Broccoli Bake Recipe
A creamy, cheesy, and comforting chicken and broccoli casserole that’s perfect for an easy weeknight dinner. Made with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich sauce, this bake is a family favorite!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets (or 2 cups frozen, thawed)
- 1½ cups cooked rice (or substitute with pasta)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups milk
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
For the Topping:
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Steam the broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, blanch it in boiling water for 2 minutes, then drain. If using frozen, thaw and drain well.
- Make the creamy sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly.
- Gradually pour in the milk and chicken broth, stirring until smooth.
- Add salt, pepper, onion powder, and paprika. Cook for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in sour cream.
- Assemble the bake:
- In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, broccoli, rice, and half of the shredded cheeses.
- Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture and stir to coat.
- Transfer to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
- Add the topping:
- In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter.
- Sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Serve & enjoy! Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Swap rice for cooked pasta for a different texture.
- Add cooked bacon or ham for extra flavor.
- Make it ahead: Assemble, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.