Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole
A comforting and creamy casserole featuring tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken Store-bought rotisserie chicken works well for convenience.
- 2 cups broccoli florets Fresh or frozen; fresh adds crunch, while frozen saves prep time.
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz) Substitute with homemade cream of mushroom soup for variation.
- 1 cup sour cream Use Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Sharp cheddar enhances flavor, or mix in mozzarella for extra stretch.
- 1 cup cooked rice or pasta Choose brown rice for health benefits or egg noodles for nostalgia.
- 1 tsp garlic powder Fresh minced garlic can be used for more depth of flavor.
- to taste none salt
- to taste none pepper
Optional Toppings
- as desired none crispy fried onions For added crunch.
- as desired none breadcrumbs Sprinkle on top before baking if desired.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, broccoli florets, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese to create a creamy sauce.
- Gently fold the creamy mixture into the chicken and broccoli mixture. If adding rice or pasta, include it now and mix until everything is evenly coated.
Baking
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until golden and bubbling.
Serving
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy warm, paired with a green salad or garlic bread.
Notes
For healthier swaps, use quinoa instead of rice and add more vegetables. Use fresh herbs for garnish and consider flavor upgrades like Dijon mustard.