Chicken Broccoli Casserole is a delightful dish that brings comfort and warmth to any family dinner table. This creamy casserole, made from scratch and without canned soup, is a perfect blend of tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a luscious, cheesy sauce. It’s the ideal quick meal for busy weeknights or a cozy family gathering. Let’s dive into how to create this easy and satisfying meal!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Broccoli Casserole

This Chicken Broccoli Casserole is not just tasty; it’s also packed with benefits. Here are a few reasons why you should make it:

It’s an easy chicken broccoli casserole that requires minimal prep time.
This dish is a great source of protein, thanks to the chicken.
Rich in vitamins and minerals from the broccoli, making it a healthy chicken broccoli casserole option.
The creamy cheese sauce ensures every bite is indulgent and satisfying.
Perfect for meal prep; make a large batch for the week.
Kids love it, making it a family favorite.
Versatile enough to pair with rice or serve on its own.
It fits well into a one-pot chicken broccoli casserole method for easy cleanup!

Ingredients for Chicken Broccoli Casserole

Gather these items:

2-3 cups cooked chicken (cubed or shredded)
16 oz bag frozen broccoli pieces (about 3 cups)
6 tbsp salted butter
2 tbsp all purpose flour
2 1/4 cups milk
1/2 cup water
2 tbsp chicken bouillon powder
1 cup shredded cheese (Mexican blend or cheddar)
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
2 cups crushed crackers (Club or Ritz work great)
4 tbsp salted butter (melted)

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Casserole Step-by-Step

Step 1: Place frozen broccoli in a colander and allow it to partially thaw for about 30 minutes.
Step 2: In a large dutch oven over low to medium heat, melt 6 tablespoons butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 3 minutes until smooth and lightly cooked.
Step 3: Slowly whisk in the milk, water, and chicken bouillon powder. Cook for about 5 minutes, whisking frequently, until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Remove from heat. Stir in shredded cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Stir the cooked chicken and broccoli into the sauce until evenly coated.
Step 6: In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers with melted butter until evenly combined.
Step 7: Sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the casserole. Cover with the lid and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes.
Step 8: Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the topping is golden and the casserole is bubbling.
Step 9: Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chicken Broccoli Casserole

Keep these in mind:

Make sure to partially thaw the broccoli to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
For a low-carb chicken broccoli casserole, consider using cauliflower instead of rice.
Use a mix of shredded cheese for a cheesy chicken broccoli dish that’s rich in flavor.
For an added crunch, try adding breadcrumbs on top instead of crushed crackers.
Remember that this dish can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free crackers.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Broccoli Casserole

This casserole can be served in various ways:

Pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Serve alongside garlic bread for a comforting dinner experience.
For a heartier option, serve over a bed of rice or pasta.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Broccoli Casserole

To store leftovers, make sure to cool the casserole completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. This makes it perfect for chicken and broccoli casserole meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Broccoli Casserole

What’s the secret to perfect Chicken Broccoli Casserole?

The secret lies in the creamy sauce and ensuring your broccoli is thawed properly. This prevents the casserole from becoming watery, ensuring you have a rich and satisfying dish.

Can I make Chicken Broccoli Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a fantastic option for busy nights.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken Broccoli Casserole?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your vegetables are not too watery and avoid overcooking the chicken before adding it to the casserole. This will keep everything tender and flavorful.

Variations of Chicken Broccoli Casserole You Can Try

Here are some fun twists on the classic recipe:

For a creamy twist, add cream of mushroom soup to the mixture.
Try a low-carb chicken broccoli casserole by omitting rice and using cauliflower.
Mix in some cooked quinoa for added texture and nutrition.
Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor.