Broccoli Chicken Casserole is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug. It’s packed with tender chunks of chicken and fresh broccoli florets all smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce that makes everything taste just right. The crunchy topping adds the perfect bit of texture, making each bite satisfying and flavorful.
I love making this casserole when I want something easy but still hearty enough to fill everyone up. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without anyone complaining, and I usually use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to make it even simpler. Plus, it’s always a hit with friends and family because it’s classic and has that cozy, homemade feel.
My favorite way to serve this is straight from the oven with a side of warm bread or a simple salad. It’s one of those meals that feels just right whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a laid-back weekend get-together. Whenever I make it, I end up wishing I made a bigger batch because it’s so good as leftovers!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast is great here, but rotisserie or even leftover chicken works well too. For a twist, you can try shredded turkey or a plant-based chicken substitute.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add a nice crunch. If you don’t have fresh, frozen broccoli works after you thaw and drain it well to avoid extra moisture. Cauliflower can be a good substitute too.
Pasta: Elbow macaroni or rotini hold the sauce nicely. You can swap to whole wheat or gluten-free pasta depending on your needs. Just cook it until al dente to avoid mushiness after baking.
Cream Soup: Cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup makes the sauce creamy and simple. For a healthier option, you can make your own white sauce or use Greek yogurt alone.
Mayonnaise or Greek Yogurt: Mayonnaise adds richness, but Greek yogurt lightens the dish while adding protein. Feel free to use all Greek yogurt for a fresher taste.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds flavor. You can mix it with mozzarella for a stretchier texture or use a dairy-free cheese for lactose intolerance.
How to Get the Best Texture and Flavor in Your Casserole?
A few simple steps make a huge difference in this dish’s texture and taste:
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook it just until al dente before mixing. This stops it from turning mushy after baking.
- Steam broccoli lightly: You want it tender but still firm for a bit of bite. Overcooked broccoli can get mushy and dull the dish.
- Mix sauces evenly: Combine the soup, mayo or yogurt, milk, and spices well before adding chicken and veggies. This ensures every bite is creamy and flavorful.
- Use half the cheese inside and half on top: This keeps the casserole both melt-in-your-mouth creamy and wonderfully cheesy on top.
- Add a crunchy topping: The optional breadcrumb and melted butter topping adds a lovely crunch that contrasts the creamy inside.
- Bake until bubbly but don’t overbake: Around 25–30 minutes is perfect to heat through and melt cheese without drying out the casserole.
Following these tips helps balance creaminess, texture, and flavor beautifully, making your broccoli chicken casserole a winner every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – I like this size because it holds all the ingredients comfortably and bakes evenly.
- Large mixing bowl – essential for tossing all your sauce, chicken, broccoli, and pasta together easily.
- Whisk or spoon – to stir the soup, mayo, milk, and spices until smooth and creamy.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your ingredients just right.
- Oven – for baking the casserole until bubbly and golden on top.
- Optional: Mixing bowl for breadcrumb topping – makes adding toppings simple and neat.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Cheeses: Mix in pepper jack or mozzarella with cheddar for a different flavor or stretchiness.
- Vegetables: Add sliced mushrooms, chopped bell peppers, or shredded carrots for extra nutrition and color.
- Proteins: Swap chicken for cooked shrimp, turkey, or even ham to vary the flavor profile.
- Spices and Herbs: Stir in a dash of paprika, cumin, or a handful of chopped fresh herbs like thyme or basil for added flavor.
How to Make Broccoli Chicken Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 3 cups broccoli florets, steamed or blanched
- 3 cups cooked pasta (e.g., elbow macaroni or rotini)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 1 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ cup milk
Seasonings & Toppings:
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted (optional, for topping)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley or dried parsley flakes for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll spend about 15 minutes preparing the ingredients and mixing everything together. Baking the casserole will take around 25 to 30 minutes. So, in total, plan for roughly 40 to 45 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar sized casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Mix the Main Ingredients:
Add the cooked chicken pieces, steamed broccoli florets, cooked pasta, and half (½ cup) of the shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce. Gently mix everything together to coat all ingredients evenly.
4. Assemble and Add Toppings:
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top. If you like, mix the melted butter and breadcrumbs together and sprinkle this over the cheese for a crunchy topping.
5. Bake the Casserole:
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh or dried parsley if desired, then serve warm and enjoy your delicious, comforting Broccoli Chicken Casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Casserole?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well! Just thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before mixing it in to avoid a watery casserole.
Can I Make Broccoli Chicken Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare everything up to the baking step, cover the dish tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Mushroom Soup?
You can use cream of chicken soup or make a homemade white sauce with butter, flour, and milk as a healthier alternative.