If you’ve ever longed for a cozy, fuss-free meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles, let me introduce you to this Chicken Broccoli Bake. It’s everything you dream of in a comfort food casserole: juicy chicken, vibrant broccoli, a creamy sauce, and a golden, cheesy topping with just the right crunch. Whether you’re tackling a busy weeknight or gathering loved ones for Sunday supper, this bake is certain to win hearts and taste buds. Plus, it’s a breeze to prep and tweaks easily to suit your cravings!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken Broccoli Bake relies on simple, everyday ingredients that work together to create pure magic. Each adds a vital layer of flavor, texture, or eye-catching color, so don’t skip a single one if you want the best results!
- Cooked chicken: Rotisserie or leftover chicken works beautifully and adds hearty protein to each bite.
- Fresh broccoli florets: A quick steam keeps them tender-crisp and with that lovely green pop.
- Cream of chicken soup: The rich, savory backbone of our creamy sauce—shortcut perfection!
- Sour cream: For tang and luscious creaminess; you can swap with Greek yogurt if you like.
- Milk: Loosens the sauce just enough so everything bakes up dreamy, not stodgy.
- Garlic powder: For gentle warmth and aroma throughout the casserole.
- Onion powder: Adds sweet depth and that classic homey flavor.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning and pulling everything together.
- Black pepper: Just enough bite to balance the richness.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts to bubbly perfection—don’t be shy!
- Grated Parmesan cheese: A punch of saltiness and crispiness on top.
- Crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs: The key to that iconic crunchy, golden finish.
- Melted butter: Combines with the topping, making each bite irresistibly crispy and flavorful.
How to Make Chicken Broccoli Bake
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with butter or nonstick spray—this helps prevent sticking and ensures easy serving later. There’s something oddly satisfying about prepping the dish, like setting the stage for all the deliciousness to come!
Step 2: Mix Up the Creamy Sauce
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until smooth and cohesive. This is the luscious foundation that gives Chicken Broccoli Bake its signature comfort-factor!
Step 3: Add Chicken and Broccoli
Fold in your shredded or cubed cooked chicken and those just-steamed, vibrant broccoli florets. Gently mix until every bite is well-coated with the creamy sauce. You’ll notice how the colors and textures start coming together—this step already smells inviting!
Step 4: Assemble and Layer in the Baking Dish
Pour your chicken and broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish, using a spatula to spread it into an even layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses over the top, making sure they’re distributed evenly for edge-to-edge meltiness.
Step 5: Add That Irresistible Crunchy Topping
In a small bowl, toss the crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle this mixture generously across the cheesy surface of your Chicken Broccoli Bake. This is the crowning glory that adds a satisfying contrast in each forkful!
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide the dish, uncovered, into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbly, golden-brown top with little craters of melty cheese peeking through. Let it cool for a few minutes after baking—trust me, the anticipation is worth it!
How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Bake
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley, a light dusting of extra Parmesan, or a few cracks of black pepper right before serving can make your Chicken Broccoli Bake look and taste even more special. Fresh chives or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes also add lovely, bright flavor notes!
Side Dishes
This comforting casserole pairs perfectly with a simple green salad tossed in vinaigrette, fluffy mashed potatoes, or a warm, crusty bread to sop up every bit of creamy sauce. If you’re feeling extra cozy, serve it alongside roasted carrots or garlic green beans—simple, colorful sides that let your bake shine.
Creative Ways to Present
For potlucks or family gatherings, scoop your Chicken Broccoli Bake into individual ramekins or pretty baking dishes for a fun twist. If you’re serving a crowd, keep it classic with family-style in the original dish with a big serving spoon in the center of the table. Leftovers also make a fantastic lunch—just tuck into a soft sandwich roll for something new!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, cover your Chicken Broccoli Bake tightly with foil or transfer it to airtight containers. It stays delicious for up to 3 days in the fridge, making it ideal for make-ahead lunches or busy evenings when you’re craving comfort in a hurry.
Freezing
This bake is a wonderful freezer staple. Assemble, but don’t bake, the casserole and cover tightly before placing in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Add the cracker topping just before baking for best results!
Reheating
To reheat, simply cover your portion with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. A quick zap in the microwave works too (perfect for lunch!), just be careful not to overdo it so the chicken stays tender and the topping keeps some crunch.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken in this Chicken Broccoli Bake?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. It brings extra flavor and saves loads of prep time, making your casserole even more weeknight-friendly.
What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
If you’re out of cream of chicken soup, you can easily substitute cream of mushroom or even cream of celery for a slightly different spin. You can also make your own quick white sauce flavored with a bit of bouillon.
Can I make this Chicken Broccoli Bake gluten-free?
Of course! Just use your preferred gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs for the topping, and ensure that your soup and any other packaged ingredients are labeled gluten-free.
How do I add more vegetables to the bake?
Feel free to toss in sautéed mushrooms, diced red peppers, or even a handful of baby spinach to up the veggie content. Just be sure any extra veggies are cooked and drained to avoid a watery casserole.
What’s the best way to steam broccoli for this recipe?
Pop fresh florets into a microwave-safe bowl with a splash of water, cover, and microwave for 2-3 minutes until just tender-crisp. Or, blanch briefly in boiling water. You want them bright and slightly crisp so they don’t get overcooked in the oven.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a homestyle hit that delivers comfort and ease, Chicken Broccoli Bake is it! I hope you’ll give this dish a try and discover just how satisfyingly simple and delicious dinnertime can be. Gather your ingredients, share it around, and let the smiles begin!
Print
Chicken Broccoli Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and creamy chicken broccoli bake that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. This easy-to-make casserole is loaded with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a cheesy, buttery topping.
Ingredients
For the casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets (lightly steamed)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix the casserole: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Mix in the chicken and broccoli.
- Assemble: Transfer the mixture to the baking dish and spread it evenly. Top with cheddar and Parmesan cheeses.
- Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture over the casserole.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience.
- For a lighter option, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
- Add cooked rice or pasta to make it a fuller meal.
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