Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe

If comfort food had a crown, the Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole would surely be wearing it! This cozy, bubbling casserole is packed with juicy chicken, tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and a cheesy, creamy sauce that brings everyone running to the table. It’s the perfect answer for busy weeknights or relaxed gatherings when you want to serve something downright satisfying with minimal fuss. Trust me, once you bake this dish, it’ll quickly become a beloved staple in your home—every cheesy bite tastes like a warm hug!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole serves a purpose, and together, they create a mouthwatering harmony of flavors, textures, and colors. The best part? You probably already have most of these staples on hand, and every single one adds a special touch that makes this casserole unforgettable!

• Cooked chicken breast: Use shredded or diced chicken for tender, protein-packed bites that soak up the creamy sauce.
• Broccoli florets: Steamed just until tender to provide a pop of color, nutrition, and a fresh, slightly crunchy texture.
• Cooked rice: White or brown rice works perfectly to bulk up the casserole and make it extra hearty.
• Condensed cream of chicken soup: This pantry staple is the secret to a rich, savory base that brings everything together.
• Sour cream: Adds tang and creaminess, making the casserole irresistibly smooth.
• Milk: Helps keep the sauce silky and prevents it from getting too thick.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey, golden perfection—don’t skimp on this key ingredient!
• Garlic powder: Infuses subtle warmth and depth to the flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Onion powder: Boosts the savory notes and rounds out the sauce beautifully.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors, so they truly shine in every forkful.
• Black pepper: A hint of spice that ties the dish together and balances the richness.
• Crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs (optional topping): Adds a crave-worthy crunch and gorgeous golden topping.
• Melted butter (if using topping): Helps brown the topping and brings a little extra luxury to every bite.

How to Make Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F for that ideal golden-baked finish. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little butter or nonstick spray. This step ensures you’ll have an easy time serving up those perfectly intact squares of casserole without any sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s beautifully incorporated and evenly coated with creamy, cheesy goodness. It might look difficult to resist sampling at this stage—a good sign!

Step 3: Layer in the Casserole Dish

Spread the mixed filling evenly into your prepared baking dish. Take a spatula and smooth everything out, making sure you have an even layer. This ensures every portion of your Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole will be packed with flavor and plenty of toppings.

Step 4: Add the Cheese and Topping

Now, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top for that gooey, bubbling finish everyone craves. If you’re going for the crunchy topping (highly recommended!), toss the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter and scatter evenly across the casserole. This step adds a delicious golden color and satisfying texture you’ll love!

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly

Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is fully melted, everything is hot and bubbly, and the topping is perfectly golden. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving; this patience pays off with a casserole that’s sliceable and oh-so delicious.

How to Serve Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

Garnishes

A little sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or sliced green onions on top adds a fresh pop of color and a touch of brightness that brings your Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole to life—you eat with your eyes first, after all!

Side Dishes

This casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or lightly dressed coleslaw makes it even more balanced. A slice of crusty bread or warm dinner rolls are ideal for soaking up every last bit of cheesy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For family dinners, serve the casserole straight from the baking dish with a big spoon for that homey, comforting vibe. For potlucks or parties, scoop individual portions into ramekins or small bowls for a more elegant touch. You can even use muffin tins to make mini casseroles—fun for kids or appetizers!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is a dream for meal preppers. Simply cover the baking dish tightly or transfer leftovers to airtight containers, then store in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors just keep getting better!

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble the casserole fully (just leave off the cracker topping, as it’s best added right before baking), wrap tightly with foil, and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, add your topping, and bake as directed.

Reheating

For individual portions, reheat in the microwave in 1–2 minute bursts until hot. For larger amounts, cover the baking dish with foil and heat in a 350°F oven until warmed through (about 20 minutes). If the topping has softened, pop the casserole under the broiler for a minute or two to bring back the crunch!

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a significant time-saver and brings wonderful seasoning to the Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole. Just shred or dice and add it straight in.

Is there a way to make this casserole lighter?

You can easily lighten things up by swapping sour cream for plain Greek yogurt and opting for reduced-fat cheese. Using brown rice or even cauliflower rice also gives you a nutritional boost without sacrificing comfort.

Can I substitute another vegetable for broccoli?

Definitely! Cauliflower, green beans, or even chopped spinach are great alternatives. Just make sure any vegetable you choose is cooked or steamed before adding it to the casserole.

What’s the best way to make this casserole gluten-free?

Choose a gluten-free condensed soup and swap out the cracker topping for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crackers. Also, double-check all your packaged ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free friendly.

How do I double the recipe for a crowd?

This casserole is super easy to scale up! Simply double all the ingredients and bake in two 9×13-inch dishes. You might need to extend the baking time by a few minutes if your oven is crowded; just keep an eye out for a golden, bubbly top.

Final Thoughts

Give the Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole a try, and I promise you’ll see why it’s a staple in so many kitchens. It’s wholesome, flavorful, and comes together so quickly—perfect for busy nights or when you’re craving something cozy. Gather your loved ones, dig in, and enjoy the melty magic of every bite!

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