Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole (Print View)

Tender chicken, broccoli, cheddar, and golden topping meld for a savory main everyone will love.

# Components:

→ Proteins

01 - 3 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded (about 2 large breasts)

→ Vegetables

02 - 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
03 - 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped

→ Dairy

04 - 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded and divided
05 - 1 cup whole milk
06 - 1/2 cup sour cream
07 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Pantry & Seasonings

08 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
09 - 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
10 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
11 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
12 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
13 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
14 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
15 - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)

# Directions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
02 - Steam or blanch broccoli florets for 3 to 4 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.
03 - In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion, sautéing for approximately 3 minutes until softened.
04 - Sprinkle flour into skillet and stir constantly for 1 minute to combine.
05 - Gradually whisk in chicken broth and whole milk. Stir continuously until mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 3 to 4 minutes.
06 - Remove skillet from heat. Incorporate 1 1/2 cups of the cheddar cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, stirring until cheese is thoroughly melted and sauce is homogenous.
07 - In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, blanched broccoli, and cheese sauce, tossing until all ingredients are evenly coated.
08 - Transfer mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it in a uniform layer.
09 - Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the surface.
10 - Bake in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses everyday ingredients you likely already have
  • Great way to use leftover chicken or a rotisserie bird
  • Kid approved and consistently a weeknight hit
  • Naturally gluten free when you use gluten free flour and breadcrumbs
02 -
  • Packed with protein and fiber thanks to chicken and broccoli
  • Easily adapted for gluten free or vegetarian needs
  • Leftovers are just as creamy when reheated
03 -
  • If you have time shred your own cheese since pre shredded is often coated and does not melt as smoothly
  • Always toast the flour with butter for a minute so your sauce is never pasty
  • Bring your milk and broth to room temperature for a lump free sauce every time

Return