Creamy Broccoli Chicken Casserole

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious creamy sauce, this Creamy Broccoli Chicken Casserole is your new go-to meal. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With the perfect balance of protein and veggies, plus a crunchy breadcrumb topping, this casserole hits all the right notes for a satisfying dish everyone will love.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This Creamy Broccoli Chicken Casserole is a beautiful combination of textures and flavors. The tender chicken and steamed broccoli are enveloped in a creamy, savory sauce made from cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, and sharp cheddar cheese. The garlic and onion powders add subtle depth, while the crispy turkey bacon and a golden breadcrumb topping provide irresistible crunch. It’s a one-dish wonder that feels indulgent without being complicated. Plus, it’s customizable — add or swap your favorite ingredients to make it your own.

Ingredient Breakdown

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Using shredded cooked chicken makes this casserole quick and easy. Rotisserie chicken or leftovers work beautifully here.
• 4 cups broccoli florets, steamed: Fresh or frozen broccoli works well. Steaming keeps the florets tender but still crisp.
• 1 cup cream of chicken soup: This provides the creamy base. Choose a good-quality brand or homemade if you prefer.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar melts perfectly and adds wonderful flavor.
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Mayonnaise adds extra creaminess and helps bind the casserole together.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For a mild garlic flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle oniony depth without overpowering the dish.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
• 1 cup turkey bacon, chopped (optional): Turkey bacon offers a smoky, crispy element without pork.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs: Creates a golden, crunchy topping that contrasts the creamy interior.

Essential Tools for Success

• Baking dish: An 8×8-inch or similar-sized casserole dish is perfect for even cooking.
• Mixing bowl: To combine all the ingredients smoothly.
• Steamer or microwave-safe bowl: For steaming broccoli quickly and efficiently.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the right balance of flavors.
• Oven mitts: To safely handle the hot casserole dish.

Creamy Broccoli Chicken Casserole Cooking Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Start by steaming 4 cups of broccoli florets until they are just tender but still vibrant green. You can do this on the stovetop with a steamer basket or in the microwave with a splash of water. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of cream of chicken soup, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well blended.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Broccoli

Add the shredded cooked chicken and steamed broccoli to the sauce mixture. Fold everything gently to coat the chicken and broccoli evenly.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Turkey Bacon

Fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and, if using, 1 cup of chopped turkey bacon. The cheese adds richness, while the turkey bacon introduces a smoky crunch that elevates the casserole.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 6: Top with Breadcrumbs

Sprinkle 1 cup of breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a delightful golden crust as it bakes.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or steamed rice. For a different twist, you might enjoy it alongside a Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry for a varied weeknight menu.

Budget & Availability Swaps

• Chicken: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or canned chicken to save time and money.
• Broccoli: Frozen broccoli is a great year-round alternative to fresh and steams quickly.
• Cream of chicken soup: Substitute with cream of mushroom soup or make a simple roux-based white sauce for a homemade touch.
• Turkey bacon: Omit entirely or swap with cooked diced halal chicken sausage for a different flavor.
• Cheese: Any melty cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack can replace cheddar in a pinch.
• Breadcrumbs: Use crushed crackers, panko, or even crushed cornflakes for a unique topping texture.

Don’t Do This

• Don’t overcook the broccoli — mushy broccoli will ruin the texture of the casserole.
• Don’t skip seasoning. Salt and pepper make all the difference in bringing out flavors.
• Don’t neglect the breadcrumb topping — it adds essential crunch and color.
• Don’t use uncooked chicken; this casserole is designed for cooked chicken only to ensure even baking and safety.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

Store leftover casserole tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through to preserve the crispy topping. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the breadcrumb crunch. For longer storage, freeze the casserole (without topping) in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Add fresh breadcrumbs on top before baking after thawing.

FAQ

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just add the breadcrumbs before baking to keep the topping crispy.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative and use a dairy-free mayonnaise. Make sure the cream of chicken soup is dairy-free or swap it with a homemade dairy-free white sauce.

Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?

Yes, you can use 1-2 cloves of minced fresh garlic sautéed lightly before mixing into the sauce for a more pronounced garlic flavor.

What side dishes pair well with Creamy Broccoli Chicken Casserole?

Light and fresh sides like a green salad or steamed rice balance the richness of the casserole. For a complete meal, try pairing it with a flavorful Creamy Mushroom Thyme Chicken or some roasted vegetables.

Desserts to Finish

• Lemon Bars – Bright and tangy to cleanse the palate.
• Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies – A comforting sweet treat everyone loves.
• Apple Crisp – Warm, cinnamon-spiced, and perfect for cozy nights.
• Vanilla Panna Cotta – Silky smooth and light to end your meal beautifully.

See You at the Table

This Creamy Broccoli Chicken Casserole is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners yet comforting enough to share with family and friends. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh broccoli make a match made in heaven, while the crispy bacon and breadcrumb topping elevate the dish to something truly special. Whether you’re a casserole lover or just looking to try a new recipe, this one promises to satisfy. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy every bite of this delightful, creamy casserole.

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