This Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy nights when you need something quick, filling, and full of flavor. With layers of tender chicken, steamed broccoli, and a cheesy, creamy sauce, it’s a meal that the whole family will enjoy. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be prepped in no time, making it a weeknight favorite in my kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I absolutely love this casserole because it combines all the things I enjoy in one dish: cheese, chicken, and broccoli! It’s the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and a touch of crunch from the cracker topping. It’s a comfort food classic, but it’s so simple to make. The ingredients are easy to find, and it can be whipped up in just under an hour. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or rice.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons melted butter
1/2 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, cooked rice, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir well to combine.
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers (or breadcrumbs) with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Servings and Timing
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
Add more vegetables: I love to throw in some chopped carrots, peas, or even cauliflower if I have them on hand. It adds extra color and nutrition!
Use different cheese: If you prefer a different cheese, feel free to swap out the cheddar and mozzarella for your favorite varieties, like gouda or pepper jack for a bit of spice.
Make it low-carb: Swap the rice for cauliflower rice for a low-carb version of this casserole.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: This casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, I recommend warming it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until it’s hot.
Related Recipes:
- Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe
- Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Rice Casserole
- Broccoli Cheese Soup
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, frozen broccoli works great! Just be sure to steam it before adding it to the casserole, and drain any excess water to avoid making the casserole too soggy.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake it, just pop it in the oven and cook it as directed.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole. After assembling it, cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake as usual.
Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?
Sure! You could use cooked turkey, beef, or even shredded pork if that’s what you have available.
What can I serve with this casserole?
I like to serve it with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or even a side of mashed potatoes for extra comfort.
Conclusion
This Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it a family favorite that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a quick meal, this casserole has got you covered.
📖 Recipe:
Print
Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is a creamy and delicious comfort food made with tender chicken, steamed broccoli, and a cheesy, savory sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this simple recipe is packed with flavor and can be prepped in under 10 minutes. With a crunchy cracker topping and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, cooked rice, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine the crushed crackers (or breadcrumbs) with the melted butter and sprinkle this mixture over the casserole.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
You can use frozen broccoli, but be sure to steam it first and drain any excess water.
This casserole can be prepped in advance and baked when ready.
For a lower-carb option, swap the rice for cauliflower rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole, Dinner, Comfort Food
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 350 kcal
