If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s as convenient as it is delicious, look no further than this irresistible Chicken Broccoli Bake. It’s hearty, creamy, cheesy, and packed with nourishing broccoli and tender chicken, all snuggled beneath a buttery, golden topping. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or need a trusty meal for your weekly rotation, this casserole is a proven crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—each ingredient has a starring role, blending together familiar flavors and creating tempting aromas. Let’s peek at how each one transforms the Chicken Broccoli Bake into pure comfort food magic.
- Cooked chicken (2 cups, shredded or cubed): Use leftovers, rotisserie, or quickly poached chicken for ease and added protein.
- Fresh broccoli florets (3 cups, lightly steamed): Adds bright color and a tender-crisp bite, balancing the richness of the casserole.
- Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): Provides the creamy foundation and savory depth that ties everything together.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Lends tang and creaminess—feel free to sub with Greek yogurt for a lighter take!
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Ensures a silky, lush texture without overpowering the other flavors.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts into gooey, cheesy goodness and crowns the casserole with classic flavor.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses subtle, aromatic warmth with zero fuss.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Rounds out the savory base and lifts all the other flavors.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Just enough kick to keep things interesting and balanced.
- Crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): The beloved, buttery-crunchy topping gives every bite texture.
- Melted butter (2 tablespoons): Toasts the crumb topping for irresistible golden perfection.
How to Make Chicken Broccoli Bake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C)—this gets it hot and ready so your Chicken Broccoli Bake cooks evenly and gets that bubbly top. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so nothing sticks and cleanup’s a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
Grab a big mixing bowl and combine your cooked chicken, lightly steamed broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Give everything a gentle but thorough stir so each ingredient is well distributed. Don’t worry if the mixture looks thick—it will turn unbelievably creamy as it bakes!
Step 3: Assemble in the Baking Dish
Spoon the filling mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it out into an even layer. This ensures every forkful gets a bit of everything—the tender chicken, melty cheese, and broccoli all in one bite.
Step 4: Create the Topping
In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with your melted butter. This little touch is what brings that signature buttery crunch to the Chicken Broccoli Bake and really takes the whole dish to the next level. Scatter this mixture evenly over the top.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop the dish in the oven (middle rack works best!) and let it bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is beautifully golden and everything underneath is bubbling away. Try to resist pulling it out too early—the aroma is hard to ignore, but that finish is worth it!
Step 6: Rest, Serve, and Enjoy
Once you pull the casserole out, let it sit for about 5 minutes. This short rest helps all the cheesy, creamy goodness settle, making it easier to scoop out tidy portions. Now, it’s time to dig in and watch smiles appear around your table!
How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Bake
Garnishes
For an extra pop of freshness, sprinkle your finished Chicken Broccoli Bake with a handful of chopped fresh parsley or a few thinly-sliced green onions. The green adds color and a gentle zing that complements all that savory, creamy richness.
Side Dishes
This bake is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a light, crisp salad—think mixed greens with a splash of lemon vinaigrette. A slice of toasted baguette or fluffy dinner rolls is perfect for scooping up every last bit of sauce, too.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow your guests, serve your Chicken Broccoli Bake in individual ramekins for a personal touch. You could also tuck a scoop inside baked potatoes or spoon it over rice or quinoa for a wholesome, filling meal that looks as sensational as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with leftovers (lucky you!), cover the casserole tightly with foil or transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days without losing its creamy charm.
Freezing
Chicken Broccoli Bake is a dream for make-ahead meals. Simply assemble the casserole but hold off on adding the crunchy topping. Wrap it well in foil and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, add the topping, and bake as directed.
Reheating
To reheat, pop individual servings in the microwave until steaming hot, or reheat larger amounts in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil. Remove the foil for the last few minutes to refresh that crispy top!
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken in Chicken Broccoli Bake?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken adds even more flavor and makes prep a snap. Just shred or chop it up and you’re good to go.
Is it okay to substitute frozen broccoli for fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well if you’re in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid adding too much water to the bake.
Can I make Chicken Broccoli Bake ahead?
Definitely. Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance (minus the topping), cover, and refrigerate. Add the cracker topping right before baking to keep it crisp.
How can I lighten up this recipe?
Try swapping Greek yogurt for the sour cream or mayonnaise, use reduced-fat cheese, and stick to whole grain breadcrumbs for a healthier twist that keeps all the cozy appeal.
What protein alternatives work for this bake?
While chicken is classic, leftover turkey or even canned tuna turn this into a totally different but equally delicious dish—perfect for using up what you have on hand!
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting and nostalgic about a bubbling casserole fresh from the oven, and this Chicken Broccoli Bake delivers every single time. I hope you give it a try, share it with family or friends, and add your own twists. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
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 a perfect weeknight meal for the whole family. This easy casserole is packed with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich, cheesy sauce topped with a buttery crumb crust.
Ingredients
Chicken Broccoli Bake:
- 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
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Topping:
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix the main ingredients: In a large bowl, combine chicken, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Layer the casserole: Spread the mixture in the baking dish.
- Prepare the topping: Mix crushed crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbling.
- Serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or mayonnaise for a lighter option.
- Frozen broccoli can be substituted; ensure it is thawed and well-drained.
- Enhance the dish by adding cooked rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
