This hearty broccoli chicken casserole combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheese sauce in one satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. Our broccoli chicken casserole recipe transforms simple ingredients into a comforting meal that feeds four people with minimal prep work and maximum flavor.
SERVES: 4 | PREP: 15 MIN | COOK: 35 MIN | TOTAL: 50 MIN
Ingredients
Protein & Base
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless chicken breasts | 1.5 lbs |
| Fresh broccoli florets | 4 cups |
| Cooked white rice | 2 cups |
| Yellow onion, diced | 1 medium |
Creamy Sauce
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cream of mushroom soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) |
| Sour cream | 1/2 cup |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1.5 cups, divided |
| Mayonnaise | 1/4 cup |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
Toppings & Seasonings
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Panko breadcrumbs | 1/2 cup |
| Butter, melted | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Paprika | 1/4 tsp |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Phase 1: Preparation (10 minutes)
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
Step 2: Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch cubes). Uniform pieces cook evenly and make serving easier. Season with salt and pepper immediately.
Step 3: Steam fresh broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. They should still have a slight crunch since they’ll continue cooking in the oven. Drain completely and set aside.
Phase 2: Cooking the Base (12 minutes)
Step 4: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil and cook seasoned chicken pieces for 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently. The chicken should be mostly cooked through but slightly pink inside since it will finish cooking in the casserole.
Step 5: Add diced onion to the same skillet with the chicken. Cook for 3-4 minutes until onions become translucent and fragrant. The onions add sweetness that balances the rich sauce.
Step 6: Remove skillet from heat and let cool for 2 minutes. This prevents the dairy ingredients from curdling when you add the sauce.
Phase 3: Creating the Sauce (5 minutes)
Step 7: In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, and garlic powder. Whisk until completely smooth with no lumps visible.
Step 8: Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (save the remaining 1/2 cup for topping). Mix thoroughly until cheese is evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
Step 9: Fold in the cooked chicken and onion mixture, ensuring every piece is coated with the creamy sauce. The mixture should look rich and creamy.
Phase 4: Assembly (8 minutes)
Step 10: Spread the cooked rice evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Press down gently to create a firm base layer.
Step 11: Layer the steamed broccoli over the rice, distributing florets evenly. This creates distinct layers that look beautiful when served.
Step 12: Pour the chicken and sauce mixture over the broccoli layer. Use a spoon to spread it evenly, ensuring all areas are covered.
Step 13: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese evenly over the top. This creates a golden, bubbly cheese layer during baking.
Phase 5: Final Touches & Baking (3 minutes prep + 35 minutes baking)
Step 14: In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and paprika. This creates a crunchy, flavorful topping that adds texture contrast.
Step 15: Sprinkle the seasoned breadcrumb mixture evenly over the cheese layer. Don’t pack it down – let it sit loosely for maximum crunchiness.
Step 16: Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. This steams the ingredients and ensures even cooking throughout.
Step 17: Remove foil and continue baking for 10 more minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbling. The internal temperature should reach 165°F when tested with a meat thermometer.
Step 18: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken and makes portions easier to serve without falling apart.
Chef’s Notes
Perfect Texture Tip: Steam your broccoli just until bright green. Overcooked broccoli becomes mushy in the broccoli chicken casserole and loses its vibrant color.
Chicken Success: Don’t fully cook the chicken in the skillet – it finishes cooking in the oven. This prevents dry, overcooked meat in your final dish.
Sauce Consistency: If your sauce seems too thick, add 2-3 tablespoons of chicken broth. Too thin? Mix in an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise.
Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble this broccoli chicken casserole up to 24 hours ahead. Cover and refrigerate, then add 10 extra minutes to the covered baking time.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 485
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 890mg
Delicious Variations
Mexican Style: Replace cheddar with Mexican cheese blend and add diced jalapeños plus taco seasoning to the chicken. Serve with salsa and avocado.
Mediterranean Twist: Use feta cheese instead of cheddar, add sun-dried tomatoes and Italian herbs. Drizzle with olive oil before serving.
Healthy Swap: Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use low-fat cheese. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more nutrients.
Rice Alternatives: Try this broccoli cheese rice casserole variation, or explore our broccoli and cheese casserole for a lower-carb option using cauliflower rice.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator Storage: Cover leftover broccoli chicken casserole tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve overnight as ingredients meld together.
Freezer Instructions: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with date and reheating instructions.
Reheating Methods:
- Oven: Cover with foil and reheat at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through
- Microwave: Heat individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through
- From Frozen: Thaw overnight in refrigerator, then reheat as directed above
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Watery Casserole: This happens when broccoli isn’t properly drained or rice is too moist. Always steam broccoli completely dry and use day-old rice when possible.
Dry Chicken: Undercook chicken in the skillet and ensure your sauce has enough moisture. Add extra sour cream if needed.
Bland Flavor: Season each layer separately and taste your sauce before assembly. Don’t rely only on the soup for seasoning.
Soggy Bottom: Place the baking dish on a sheet pan to prevent bottom overcooking. Ensure your oven temperature is accurate with a thermometer.
Burnt Top: If browning too quickly, tent with foil for the last 10 minutes. Lower oven temperature by 25°F for next time.
Equipment Essentials
- 9×13 inch baking dish (glass or ceramic preferred)
- Large mixing bowl for sauce preparation
- Medium skillet for cooking chicken and onions
- Steamer basket or microwave-safe bowl for broccoli
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum foil for covering
- Meat thermometer for food safety
Shopping List by Store Section
Meat Department
- 1.5 lbs boneless chicken breasts
Produce Section
- 1 large head fresh broccoli (or 4 cups pre-cut florets)
- 1 medium yellow onion
Dairy Section
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
Pantry/Dry Goods
- 2 cups white rice (or use leftover rice)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
Canned Goods
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
Spices/Seasonings
- Garlic powder, salt, black pepper, paprika
Success Secrets
1. Temperature Control: Always preheat your oven completely before baking. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy – many ovens run hot or cold.
2. Layer Strategy: Keep ingredients in distinct layers for the best presentation and even cooking. Don’t mix everything together before baking.
3. Moisture Management: Pat chicken completely dry before seasoning and cooking. Excess moisture creates steam that can make your broccoli chicken casserole watery.
4. Timing is Everything: Prep all ingredients before you start cooking. Having everything ready makes assembly smooth and prevents overcooking any component.
5. Rest Before Serving: Always let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This allows the sauce to thicken and makes serving much easier with clean, defined portions.
