Best Broccoli Chicken Casserole Recipe

This is a quintessential comfort food dish that combines the tender flavors of chicken, the vibrant freshness of broccoli, and the richness of a creamy cheese sauce, all topped with a crunchy buttery cracker crust. It’s a meal that embodies warmth and hospitality, perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. The blend of textures and flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser, with the comforting familiarity of a home-cooked meal that never fails to satisfy.

Ingredients

• 3 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 cups Broccoli Florets (fresh or frozen, thawed)
• 2 cups Cooked White Rice
• 1 (10.5 oz) Can Cream of Chicken Soup
• 1 (10.5 oz) Can Broccoli Cheese Soup
• 1 (10.5 oz) Can Cheddar Cheese Soup
• 2 cups Chicken Broth
• 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
• 1/2 cup Processed Cheese (Velveeta)
• 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter, melted
• 1 cup Crushed Butter Flavored Crackers (e.g., Ritz)
• Salt and Pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 tsp Dried Thyme
• 1 tsp Paprika

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Let cool slightly before shredding.
3. Prepare Broccoli: Steam the broccoli florets until tender but crisp. Drain and set aside.
4. Make Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, broccoli cheese soup, cheddar cheese soup, and chicken broth. Stir until smooth.
5. Assemble Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, spread half of the cooked rice evenly. Add the shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, and pour the cheese sauce over them. Top with the remaining rice.
6. Add Cheese and Topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and processed cheese over the top layer of rice. Mix the melted butter with crushed crackers and spread evenly over the cheese.
7. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
8. Serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Top Tips

• Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds a vibrant color and crunch to the dish. If using frozen, ensure it’s fully thawed and drained.
• Adjust Cheese Amount: Feel free to adjust the amount of cheese based on your preference for creaminess.
• Cracker Topping: Use a variety of crackers for different textures, like Ritz or saltines.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate overnight before baking.
• Leftovers: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for a spicy twist.
• Mushroom Addition: Sautéed mushrooms can add an earthy flavor; simply sauté them with garlic before adding to the casserole.
• Bacon Crunch: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the top for a smoky flavor.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace rice with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version.
• Italian Twist: Add some Italian seasoning and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair.
• Veggie Boost: Add other steamed vegetables like carrots or green beans to increase the nutritional value.

Nutritional Guide

Additional nutritional notes: This casserole is rich in protein from the chicken and cheese, making it a satisfying meal. The broccoli adds a boost of vitamins and fiber. To make it healthier, consider using low-fat cheese options or reducing the amount of processed cheese. The dish is also versatile, allowing for adjustments in ingredients to suit dietary preferences.