Chicken Broccoli Casserole is a classic comfort dish that brings together tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce all baked into a golden, bubbly delight. It’s a simple combination that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for cozy dinners or family meals. The mix of textures—soft chicken, crunchy broccoli, and a crispy topping—makes every bite a little celebration for your taste buds.
I love making this casserole because it’s one of those dishes that’s easy to throw together but always impresses. I usually use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time, and it’s a great way to sneak some veggies in without anyone complaining. A little tip I’ve learned is to steam the broccoli just enough to keep it bright and slightly crisp before mixing it in—it really keeps the casserole from turning mushy.
One of my favorite ways to serve this casserole is with a simple side salad or some warm dinner rolls. It’s the kind of dish that works well for leftovers too—just pop it back in the oven until warmed through, and it tastes almost as good the second day. Every time I make it, it reminds me of family dinners growing up, where everyone eagerly waited for that cheesy, chicken-filled dish to come out of the oven. It’s a real crowd-pleaser, and I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Cooked chicken is the star here. Rotisserie or leftover chicken works great to save time. If you want to skip meat, you can replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a veggie twist.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is best for crispness, but frozen works fine if thawed and drained. Blanching fresh broccoli keeps it bright and tender-crisp.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This creates a creamy sauce. You can swap it with cream of mushroom or cream of celery for different flavors. For a healthier option, try a homemade white sauce with milk and flour.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor, but feel free to mix in mozzarella for extra melty texture. For dairy-free, use your favorite vegan cheese.
Topping: Crushed potato chips add crunch and a bit of fun salty flavor. You can also use breadcrumbs or crushed crackers as a crispy alternative.
How Do I Get a Perfectly Crispy and Golden Topping?
The topping is what makes this casserole extra special. To get it crispy and golden,:
- Mix the crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs with melted butter. This helps them brown nicely and adds flavor.
- Sprinkle evenly over the cheese layer so it covers the whole dish.
- Bake uncovered so steam can escape, letting the top crisp up instead of getting soggy.
- Keep an eye on the casserole during the last 5 minutes to avoid burning the topping but allow it to turn a golden brown.
This little step gives a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the creamy casserole below. It’s my favorite part!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – I like this size because it holds everything evenly without spilling.
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for combining all the ingredients quickly and easily.
- Steamer or pot for blanching broccoli – keeps it bright and tender with minimal fuss.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the right amounts for all ingredients.
- Optional: Baking sheet for topping – if you prefer to keep the topping separate for extra crispiness.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked turkey or ham for a different flavor twist.
- Add cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms for extra texture and taste.
- Mix in a dash of paprika or cayenne pepper to add a gentle spice kick.
- Use a different cheese, like Monterrey Jack or pepper Jack, for a varied cheesy flavor.
Chicken Broccoli Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 ½ cups cooked white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ cup chopped onion (optional)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping:
- 1 cup crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter (optional)
Time Needed:
It takes about 15 minutes to prep your ingredients and mix everything together. Then, bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes until it’s hot, bubbly, and the top is golden. In total, you’ll spend about 40-45 minutes from start to finish.
How to Make It—Step by Step:
1. Prepare the Broccoli
If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch the florets for 3-4 minutes until tender but still bright green. For frozen broccoli, thaw it well and drain any extra water. This keeps the casserole from getting soggy.
2. Mix the Casserole Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, broccoli, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, half of the cheddar cheese, onion (if you like), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well so it’s evenly mixed.
3. Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then spread your mixture evenly inside. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese all over the top.
4. Add the Crunchy Topping
Mix the crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs with the melted butter if you’re using it. Sprinkle this mixture evenly on top of the cheese layer to create a nice crispy crust.
5. Bake and Serve
Bake the casserole uncovered in your preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes. The top should be bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving—then enjoy your warm, cheesy meal!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen broccoli well before mixing it in to avoid excess moisture that could make the casserole soggy.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Mix all the ingredients and assemble the casserole, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally for even heat.
What Can I Use Instead of Potato Chips for the Topping?
Breadcrumbs or crushed crackers work great as alternatives for a crunchy topping. Mixing them with melted butter will help achieve that golden, crispy texture.