Go Back
To make a tasty Chicken Broccoli Casserole, gather these simple ingredients: - 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded - 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed - 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup cream of mushroom soup - 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping) - 2 tablespoons olive oil These ingredients come together to create a rich and creamy dish. The chicken provides protein, while broccoli adds a nice crunch and bright color. Quinoa or rice adds heartiness. Cream of mushroom soup and Greek yogurt give it a smooth texture. The spices bring out flavors, while the breadcrumbs add a crispy topping. You can mix and match these ingredients based on what you have at home. For example, you can use any cooked chicken you like. Leftover rotisserie chicken works great. You can even switch out the broccoli for other veggies, if you want. This recipe is flexible, making it fun to customize! {{ingredient_image_1}} - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step warms up the oven for even baking. - In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, and cooked quinoa (or rice). - Add 3/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir until combined. - Prepare a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread the mixture evenly in the dish. - Transfer the chicken and broccoli mixture into the prepared dish. - In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil. Stir until all breadcrumbs are coated. - Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly on top of the casserole. Then, add the remaining cheddar cheese on top. - Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Look for bubbling and a golden brown top. - Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps it set. - Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color. Enjoy with a side salad for a complete meal! - Alternatives for cooked chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken or turkey. For a vegetarian option, try chickpeas or tofu. - Substitutes for cream of mushroom soup: Use cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce. You can mix equal parts of milk and flour with seasonings for a quick fix. - Low-calorie options: Replace cream of mushroom soup with low-fat yogurt or vegetable broth. Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for fewer calories. - Ensuring even cooking: Cut the broccoli into small, uniform pieces. This helps them cook evenly with the chicken and rice. - Tips to prevent a soggy bottom: Use a greased baking dish. Layer the mixture evenly and avoid overcooking the broccoli. - Garnishing ideas: Top the casserole with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika. Add thin slices of green onion for color. - Serving with sides: Pair this dish with a crisp side salad or some garlic bread. This adds texture and balances the meal. Pro Tips Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand. Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Make it Creamy: For an extra creamy texture, consider adding a splash of milk or a bit more Greek yogurt to the mixture. Breadcrumb Alternatives: Substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or panko for a different texture and flavor. {{image_2}} Gluten-free options: You can easily make this dish gluten-free. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping. You can also choose gluten-free cream soups. Many brands offer gluten-free versions. Vegetarian versions: To make a vegetarian casserole, swap the chicken with cooked lentils or chickpeas. You can add extra veggies like bell peppers or spinach. This keeps the dish hearty and full of flavor. Adding spices or herbs: Spice up your casserole by adding herbs like thyme or rosemary. A pinch of paprika gives a nice kick too. Experiment with flavors you love to make it unique. Incorporating different vegetables: Feel free to mix in different vegetables. Carrots, peas, or even mushrooms fit perfectly. Just chop them small to blend well with the chicken and broccoli. Serving suggestions for parties: This casserole is great for gatherings. Serve it hot in the baking dish for a cozy feel. Pair it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Meal prep ideas: You can prep this dish ahead of time. Assemble it and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you're ready to eat. This makes weeknight dinners super easy! To keep your chicken broccoli casserole fresh, store it properly. - Refrigeration Guidelines: Place leftovers in an airtight container. They will stay good in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to cool the casserole to room temperature before sealing it up. - Freezing Tips: If you want to save it longer, freeze portions in airtight containers. You can also wrap it tightly in foil. This way, it will last for about three months. Just remember to label the containers with the date. Reheating your casserole can bring back its tasty goodness. - Best Methods for Reheating: Use the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place the casserole in for about 20 minutes. If you’re in a rush, the microwave works too. Just heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. - Time and Temperature Guidelines: Always check that the food is hot throughout. In the microwave, it should only take about 5-7 minutes. In the oven, look for the cheese to bubble and the top to brown slightly. Knowing how long your casserole lasts helps avoid waste. - Duration of Freshness in the Fridge: Enjoy your leftovers within three days. After that, the quality starts to drop. - Freezer Storage Duration: Your casserole can stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months. Just make sure to store it well to prevent freezer burn. How long does chicken broccoli casserole last? Chicken broccoli casserole lasts about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Just prepare it, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Bake it when you're ready to serve. What can I serve with chicken broccoli casserole? You can serve a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. These pair well with the casserole and add nutrition. Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just thaw and drain it before mixing with other ingredients. How do I make it creamy without the soup? You can use more Greek yogurt, sour cream, or a homemade cheese sauce. These options add creaminess without soup. What's the best way to shred chicken? The best way to shred chicken is to use two forks. Hold one fork steady and pull the meat apart with the other. Can I cook this in a slow cooker? Yes, you can cook this casserole in a slow cooker. Combine all ingredients and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. What oven-proof dishes can I use? You can use glass, ceramic, or metal baking dishes. Just ensure they are safe for oven use. How do I know when it's done baking? The casserole is done when it bubbles and the top is golden brown. A food thermometer should read 165°F (74°C) in the center. This blog post covered all you need to make a tasty chicken broccoli casserole. You learned about the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and handy tips to make cooking easier. Plus, you discovered possible variations and storage tips that keep your meal fresh. Remember, cooking is fun! So, feel free to customize this recipe to fit your taste. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this dish with your loved ones. Happy cooking!

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Dreams

A delicious and creamy casserole featuring shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, and cheddar cheese, topped with crispy breadcrumbs.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
  • 0.5 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, cooked quinoa (or rice), 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything together until well incorporated.
  • Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  • In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and olive oil. Stir until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the chicken and broccoli mixture in the baking dish.
  • Top with the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbling and the top is golden brown.
  • Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for added color. Enjoy with a side salad for a complete meal!
Keyword broccoli, casserole, cheesy, chicken