If you’re looking for a comforting meal that’s both hearty and packed with nutrients, look no further than our Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole. This delightful dish combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy cheese in a way that brings smiles to every plate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy Goodness: The combination of cream cheese and cheddar creates a luscious sauce that envelops the chicken and broccoli beautifully.
- Nutritious and Delicious: With high-protein chicken and fiber-rich broccoli, this casserole is both satisfying and healthy.
- Family-Friendly: It’s the perfect meal for the whole family, pleasing picky eaters and adults alike.
- Easy Peasy Prep: With minimal prep and easy steps, it’s a dish you can whip up any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll find that this Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole relies on simple ingredients that each play a vital role. Every component, from the cheese to the spices, contributes to a dish that’s pure comfort.
- Butter: Adds richness to the roux, which is essential for the creamy base.
- Flour: Helps thicken the sauce, binding everything together.
- Onion: Provides a savory depth that’s both aromatic and flavorful.
- Whole Milk: Gives the sauce a creamy texture, enhancing the cheese’s flavors.
- Cheddar Cheese: The star of the show, creating that beloved cheesy pull in every bite.
- Cream Cheese: Adds a tangy creaminess that blends beautifully with the cheddar.
- Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
- Smoked Paprika and Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle kick and smoky depth to the casserole.
- Broccoli Florets: Brings freshness and color, balancing the richness of the cheese.
- Cooked Rice: A hearty base that absorbs the flavorful sauce perfectly.
- Cooked Chicken: Provides essential protein and a comforting texture.
- Buttery Crackers: Adds a delicious crunch on top, complementing the creamy interior.
- Chopped Parsley: A fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and flavor right at the end.
Variations
One of the best things about this Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is its adaptability. You can easily tailor the recipe to suit your family’s tastes or comply with dietary restrictions.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap out the chicken for mushrooms or extra broccoli to make this dish meat-free.
- Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice to cut down on carbs.
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes for those who love a bit of heat!
- Gluten-Free: Select gluten-free flour and crackers to make this dish completely gluten-free.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 9″x13″ casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking, ensuring a perfect golden crust.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
Melt the butter in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the flour, coating the onions well, and cook for an additional minute before slowly whisking in the milk. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon—around 4-5 minutes.
Step 3: Combine Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice
In a large bowl, mix together the lightly steamed broccoli florets, the cooked rice, and the diced or shredded chicken. Ensure everything is evenly distributed for consistent bites in your casserole.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the chicken, broccoli, and rice mixture. Stir until fully coated, then transfer it all into the prepared dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and the crushed buttery crackers for that irresistible crunch. Bake for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden. Garnish with parsley, and you’re ready to serve!
Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
- Sauce Perfection: Make sure your sauce thickens until it coats the back of a spoon; this ensures the perfect consistency.
- Quick Prep: Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
- Crunchy Top: For a more robust crunch, toss the crushed crackers with a little melted butter before topping the casserole.
- Ingredient Selection: Fresh broccoli florets hold up better than frozen, adding a pleasant texture to the dish.
How to Serve Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a touch of color to the Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole but also a hint of brightness that complements the rich flavors.
Side Dishes
To balance the richness of the casserole, consider serving with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra special touch, serve the casserole in individual ramekins. This way, each family member gets their personal serving, making the meal feel even more personalized and cozy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld together, making them even more delicious!
Freezing
To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely before wrapping tightly with aluminum foil or transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave until heated through, or place the casserole in an oven preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes, or until bubbly.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! If using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water to prevent the casserole from becoming too watery.
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What if I don’t have Ritz crackers?
No problem! You can substitute with any buttery cracker, or even breadcrumbs for that delightful crunch.
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Is there a dairy-free option?
You can use dairy-free cheese alternatives and a non-dairy milk like almond or soy milk to make this casserole dairy-free.
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What type of chicken should I use?
Both diced or shredded chicken work well, but using a rotisserie chicken adds a lovely flavor and saves time!
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is a true celebration of comfort food. It’s an easy, delicious meal that brings warmth and smiles to any table, inviting you to experience the delightful blend of cheese, chicken, and broccoli. Give it a try, and watch it become a family favorite!
Print
Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This hearty chicken casserole combines tender chicken, steamed broccoli, and rice in a rich, cheesy sauce, topped with crispy crackers and baked until bubbly and golden. It’s a comforting, family-friendly dish perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Sauce
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 1/2 cups milk (whole milk recommended)
- 3 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 ounces cream cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Casserole
- 2 cups broccoli florets, lightly steamed or blanched
- 3 cups cooked rice
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 1 cup buttery crackers such as Ritz, coarsely crushed
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Coat a 9″x13″ baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Make the Sauce: Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in flour, cooking for 1 minute to create a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring continuously, and cook for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Add cream cheese, 2 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine steamed broccoli, cooked rice, and shredded chicken. Pour the cheese sauce over the mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Evenly distribute crushed buttery crackers over the cheese. Bake for 20 minutes or until bubbling, cheese is melted, and topping is golden brown. Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
- You can substitute cauliflower or other vegetables for broccoli.
- This casserole can be prepared in advance, kept covered in the refrigerator, and baked later.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8th of casserole)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 940 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
