chicken broccoli bake recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best chicken broccoli bake recipe

I’ve been making this chicken broccoli bake recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a classic comfort food dish that’s easy to prepare and can be served for any occasion.

The original recipe I found was from a friend who had learned it from her grandmother, and I’ve tweaked it over the years to make it my own. The key to this recipe is using fresh broccoli and not overcooking it, so it still has a bit of crunch.

I love how the flavors of the chicken, broccoli, and cheese all come together in this dish. My kids love helping me make it because they get to use their favorite baking dish, and my husband appreciates how easy it is to reheat leftovers for lunch the next day.

This recipe has become a staple in our household, and I’m excited to share it with you. I’ve made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just a quick weeknight dinner.

It’s a great way to get everyone eating their veggies without even realizing it. One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can serve it as a main dish or as a side, and it’s perfect for meal prep or freezing leftovers for later.

I’ve even made it for my nieces’ birthday party once, and they loved helping me assemble the casserole in advance.

Chicken Broccoli Bake

4.7 from 1174 votes

A creamy and satisfying casserole with tender chicken and fresh broccoli baked in a rich cheese sauce. This dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Casserole

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
3 cups broccoli florets
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
3In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, and black pepper.
4Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
5Add the shredded chicken and broccoli florets to the bowl and stir until all ingredients are well coated with the sauce.
6The mixture should be evenly combined with no dry spots.
7Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
8Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
9In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter until the crumbs are moistened.
10Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs evenly over the cheese layer.
11Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown.
12The broccoli should be tender when pierced with a fork.
13Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

9×13 inch baking dish
Large mixing bowl
Small bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 9g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 750mg🌾Total Carbs: 18g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use low-fat cream of chicken soup, reduced-fat sour cream, and part-skim mozzarella cheese. You can also add cooked rice or quinoa to make the dish more filling.

Watch Video Of How Chicken Broccoli Bake Works

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you are ready to reheat, you can use the microwave for individual portions or warm it in a 350 degree oven covered with foil for about 15 minutes.

This dish also freezes well for up to three months if you want to make a double batch. I like to serve it with a simple side salad or some steamed rice to round out the meal.

It is always a good idea for family gatherings because it is easy to transport and feeds a crowd without a lot of fuss. This chicken broccoli bake has become a staple in my kitchen and I hope it becomes one in yours too.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Broccoli Bake

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just thaw it first and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps prevent the casserole from becoming watery.

2. What kind of cheese works best for this recipe?

Sharp cheddar cheese is my go to because it melts well and gives a nice flavor. You can also use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a milder taste.

3. How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Make sure your sauce is thick enough before baking and cover the dish with foil for the first half of baking. This traps steam and keeps everything moist.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it covered for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add about 10 minutes to the cooking time since it starts cold.

5. What can I serve with chicken broccoli bake?

This dish is pretty complete on its own but I like to serve it with a side of rice or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. A simple green salad also works well.

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