Save This creamy broccoli cheddar chicken casserole is pure comfort food and always brings my family running to the dinner table. With tender chunks of chicken, fresh broccoli, and a buttery, cheesy sauce, it is the kind of meal that makes weeknights cozy and special without a lot of fuss. I love how it only needs basic ingredients yet always feels hearty and festive, perfect for sharing or taking along to a potluck.
I still remember the first chilly evening I made this casserole my husband had seconds and the kids begged for leftovers at lunch. Now it is in our regular rotation for both busy nights and family celebrations because it is just so reliable and comforting.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken breast: The foundation of the dish Choose juicy baked or store bought rotisserie for ease
- Fresh broccoli: Bright flavor and tender crunch Pick vibrant stalks with tight florets for freshness
- Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth Look for onions with no soft spots
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Gives the sauce its signature richness Buy block cheese and shred it yourself for smoother melting
- Whole milk: Creamy base for the sauce Use whole for richness or substitute with 2 percent for lighter texture
- Sour cream: Adds tangy creaminess Opt for full fat for best flavor
- Unsalted butter: Starts the sauce with a hint of richness Choose high quality for a clean taste
- All purpose flour: Thickens the sauce Can swap for gluten free flour if needed
- Low sodium chicken broth: Lends savory notes Prefer low sodium so you can control seasoning
- Garlic powder: Layered flavor with no peeling Pick a fresh jar for best flavor
- Onion powder: More aromatic layers Freshness makes a difference tastewise
- Paprika: Adds color and soft warmth Use smoked paprika for extra depth if you like
- Kosher salt: Brightens the flavors Coarse kosher salt disperses flavor evenly
- Freshly ground black pepper: Lively bite freshly ground means bolder flavor
- Breadcrumbs: Buttery crunch on top Go for gluten free if needed Choose unseasoned for flexibility
Instructions
- Preheat the oven:
- Heat your oven to 375 F or 190 C and grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish well with butter or cooking spray to keep cleanup easy
- Prep the broccoli:
- Cut broccoli into bite sized florets and steam or blanch for three to four minutes until bright green and just tender then drain and set aside to avoid sogginess
- Sauté the onion:
- In a large skillet melt butter over medium heat then add finely chopped onion and cook slowly for about three minutes until soft and lightly golden This aromatic base builds up the flavor
- Make the roux:
- Sprinkle flour over the cooked onions and cook for one minute stirring constantly This allows the flour to toast into the butter which removes any raw taste and helps thicken the sauce later
- Add liquids and thicken:
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk stirring until everything is smooth and let it cook gently for three to four minutes until you see the mixture thicken to a glossy sauce You want it to coat the back of a spoon
- Finish the cheese sauce:
- Take the skillet off the heat and stir in half the shredded cheddar sour cream and all the spices Continue mixing until the cheese melts fully and the sauce is creamy and lump free
- Combine chicken and broccoli:
- In a big mixing bowl combine the cooked chicken broccoli and finished cheese sauce Toss them together so each piece is coated in the creamy mixture
- Assemble the casserole:
- Spread the mixture evenly in your greased baking dish making sure every section is filled and level for even cooking
- Top with cheese and breadcrumbs:
- Sprinkle on the rest of your cheddar in an even layer then add a final blanket of breadcrumbs for that signature golden crunch
- Bake until bubbly:
- Place your casserole in the oven and bake for twenty five to thirty minutes until the cheese is melted the topping is golden and the dish bubbles at the edges Let it cool for five minutes before you serve for neat slices
Save My favorite part of this dish is the crusty topping of cheese and breadcrumbs that turns irresistibly golden in the oven. My kids always sneak pieces of the topping before we gather at the table and the smell draws everyone into the kitchen as it bakes.
Storage Tips
This casserole keeps beautifully for about three days in the refrigerator. Store tightly covered then reheat individual servings in the microwave or larger portions in the oven covered with foil. Add a splash of milk before reheating to keep everything creamy.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have chicken on hand try using turkey or even ham for a twist. For a vegetarian touch swap the chicken for hearty cooked chickpeas or cubes of baked tofu. You can play with the cheese as well using half gruyere or Monterey Jack if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Broccoli cheddar chicken casserole is great with a simple green salad especially one dressed with a bright vinaigrette to balance the richness. For potlucks I like to serve this alongside roasted potatoes or steamed green beans for a colorful plate.
Cultural and Historical Context
Casseroles like this have roots in American home cooking where stretching simple proteins and vegetables turned into a crowd pleasing meal. The cheddar broccoli pairing became classic in the mid twentieth century thanks to convenience foods but this from scratch version delivers truly fresh flavor.
Seasonal Adaptations
Use frozen broccoli in the winter when fresh is pricey In spring add peas or asparagus for color and crunch Top with thin tomato slices before baking in late summer
Success Stories
Friends have told me they have brought this to both birthdays and holiday gatherings and never had leftovers to take home. My mother in law once called mid meal just to ask for the recipe on the spot.
Freezer Meal Conversion
After assembling allow the casserole to cool to room temperature cover tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator then bake as directed adding five or ten extra minutes if needed.
Save This casserole is guaranteed to bring smiles to your table from the first creamy bite. Enjoy for dinner then savor the leftovers for lunch all week.
Cooking Questions
- → Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives for a gluten-free preparation.
- → What cheese works best for the sauce?
Sharp cheddar provides depth and richness, but you may use mild or a mix of cheeses for varied flavor.
- → Can I use frozen broccoli?
Frozen broccoli works well; thaw and drain before steaming to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- → How long does this keep?
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat in oven for best texture.
- → Can I prepare ahead of time?
Assemble the dish up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
- → What sides pair well?
A crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread complement this savory, cheesy main perfectly.