If you’re looking for a comforting dish that effortlessly blends creamy, cheesy goodness with wholesome ingredients, the Chicken Broccoli Casserole Recipe is here to be your new weeknight superstar. This casserole brings together tender shredded chicken, fresh broccoli florets, and a luscious mixture of sour cream and mayonnaise, all topped with melted cheddar cheese that forms the perfect golden crust. Not only is this recipe wonderfully easy to prepare, but it also fits beautifully into low carb and keto-friendly meal plans, making it a versatile choice that your whole family will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the secret sauce to this recipe’s success. Every item plays an important role in building rich flavors, enticing textures, and that vibrant look that makes this casserole irresistible.
- Shredded chicken (2 cups): Use cooked chicken for tender bites that soak up all the creamy flavors.
- Broccoli florets (2 cups): Fresh or lightly steamed broccoli adds a beautiful green pop and nutritious crunch.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts to a gooey, golden finish that ties the casserole together.
- Sour cream (½ cup): Adds tangy creaminess for richness without overwhelming the dish.
- Mayonnaise (½ cup): Works alongside sour cream for silkiness and moisture.
- Salt, pepper, and garlic powder: Simple seasonings that bring out the natural flavors and add subtle warmth.
How to Make Chicken Broccoli Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 375 °F (190 °C) so it will be perfectly heated when you’re ready to bake the casserole. This makes sure your dish cooks evenly and gets that bubbly, cheesy finish everyone loves.
Step 2: Mix the Main Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, broccoli florets, sour cream, mayonnaise, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mixing well ensures every bite delivers creamy, flavorful goodness without any dry spots.
Step 3: Spread and Top
Transfer this creamy mixture into a casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Then, generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. This cheese layer will bake into a delicious, melty crust that crowns the casserole beautifully.
Step 4: Bake Until Hot and Bubbly
Pop the casserole into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is golden and bubbling, hinting at all the tasty flavors melded together inside.
How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To give your Chicken Broccoli Casserole Recipe an extra touch of flair, try adding crispy crumbled bacon or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top. These simple garnishes add layers of flavor and a gorgeous pop of color that makes every serving feel special.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines on its own, but pairing it with a fresh mixed green salad or roasted garlic cauliflower makes for a truly balanced meal. The freshness and crunch of a salad perfectly complement the creamy texture of the casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try spooning the casserole into individual ramekins for single servings—a charming way to impress guests at a casual dinner party. You can even turn it into a stuffed baked potato topper or use it as a filling for low carb wraps for a quick lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After a delicious meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The casserole holds its creamy texture well, making it an easy option for busy days ahead.
Freezing
If you want to prepare the Chicken Broccoli Casserole Recipe in advance, it freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to enjoy later without any loss of flavor or texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 °F (175 °C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, to bring back that fresh-baked, melty cheese experience. You can also use the microwave for a quicker option, but the oven will give you a better finish.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess water from the frozen broccoli before mixing it into the casserole to avoid a watery dish.
Is this Chicken Broccoli Casserole Recipe suitable for keto diets?
Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats, making it a perfect keto dinner recipe that doesn’t sacrifice on flavor or satisfaction.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Feel free to experiment! Cauliflower, mushrooms, or even bell peppers can be great additions, but keep in mind the moisture content so the casserole stays creamy and not soggy.
What kind of cheese works best besides cheddar?
While cheddar is classic, you can substitute with mozzarella for a milder flavor or pepper jack for a little kick. A blend of cheeses also works wonderfully.
Do I need to cook the chicken beforehand?
Yes, the chicken should be cooked and shredded before mixing with the other ingredients. Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut for this recipe.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so wonderfully satisfying about the Chicken Broccoli Casserole Recipe that makes it feel like a warm hug on a plate. Its ease and deliciousness make it a must-try for anyone looking to whip up a nourishing dinner without hassle. Trust me, once you give this recipe a go, it’ll be a regular on your dinner rotation — cozy, comforting, and perfectly balanced in every bite.
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Chicken Broccoli Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy, cheesy chicken and broccoli casserole that’s low carb, family-friendly, and perfect for quick weeknight dinners. This comforting dish combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich blend of sour cream and mayonnaise all baked to golden perfection topped with melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Dairy and Condiments
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
Seasonings
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375 °F (190 °C) and allow it to fully preheat to ensure even baking of the casserole.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, broccoli florets, sour cream, mayonnaise, and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Prepare Casserole Dish: Spread the chicken and broccoli mixture evenly into a casserole dish to create a uniform layer.
- Add Cheese Topping: Generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mixture to form a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dish is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes
- For extra flavor and texture, add crumbled bacon or crushed pork rinds as a crunchy topping before baking.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
- Use fresh or frozen broccoli; if frozen, thaw and drain excess moisture first.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference, adding more garlic powder or pepper if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner / Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
