Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Nothing beats a warm, hearty casserole, and this Chicken and Broccoli Casserole checks all the boxes for a delicious, wholesome meal. It’s creamy, packed with protein, and sneaks in a healthy dose of greens, making it a perfect family favorite. Serve it on busy weeknights or bring it to a potluck – it’s sure to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
This dish is a flavorful blend of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and fluffy rice, all smothered in a creamy sauce. It’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or rice. Top it off with either crunchy breadcrumbs or gooey shredded cheese for an extra layer of deliciousness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this casserole to life:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or even wild rice)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or make your own creamy base)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for a creamy tang)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, if you love extra cheesiness)
- 1/2 cup milk (to thin the sauce if needed)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crunchy top)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pro Tip: Want to make it extra creamy? Add a splash of heavy cream or substitute cream of chicken with cream of mushroom soup for a twist in flavor.
How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a casserole dish.
- If using fresh broccoli, steam it lightly until it’s bright green and just tender – about 3-4 minutes. (If you’re using frozen broccoli, simply thaw it.)
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk. Stir well until smooth.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- In the prepared casserole dish, layer the cooked rice, shredded chicken, and broccoli.
- Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the layers, making sure everything is well-coated.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheese or breadcrumbs on top.
Pro Tip: For added flavor, try mixing a little melted butter with your breadcrumbs before topping the casserole – it’ll make them extra crispy and golden.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden on top.
- If you used shredded cheese, look for a melted, slightly browned top. If using breadcrumbs, they should be crispy and golden.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs perfectly with:
- A fresh side salad for a light contrast.
- Garlic bread for mopping up the creamy sauce.
- Steamed vegetables for a more balanced plate.
Tips for Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so delicious!), you can easily store them:
- Refrigerate: Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Pro Tip: Portion it out before freezing for easier reheating.
Variations to Try
- Make it vegetarian by swapping the chicken for chickpeas or extra veggies like mushrooms and bell peppers.
- Add a crunchy topping by mixing breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan and a touch of garlic powder.
- Spice it up by adding a dash of red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of paprika for a smoky kick.
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole! Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for leftovers, this dish is sure to bring everyone to the table with its irresistible combination of creamy goodness and satisfying texture.
