This Savory Chicken & Broccoli Casserole is the definition of comfort food, perfect for those days when you crave something warm and hearty. It's a family-friendly dish that combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and gooey cheese for a satisfying meal that's easy to whip up.
Cooked chicken provides a hearty base, adding protein and flavor. You can use leftovers or a rotisserie chicken for convenience. Broccoli florets bring a pop of color and nutrients, pairing perfectly with the creamy sauce. Cream of mushroom soup acts as a savory glue that melds everything together, while the sour cream adds tang and richness to the mix. Sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully, creating a gooey top layer that’s hard to resist. Breadcrumbs and melted butter combine to give a crispy, golden finish that contrasts with the creamy interior. Garlic powder, salt, and black pepper enhance the overall flavor without overpowering the main ingredients.
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. For a touch of freshness, a squeeze of lemon juice over the top just before serving can brighten up the flavors. It’s also great alongside a light tomato soup for those colder days.
First, get your oven going by preheating it to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grab a large bowl and mix together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. You want this mixture to become a smooth, flavorful base for your casserole.
Next, fold in the cooked chicken and steamed broccoli. Make sure they’re coated evenly with the creamy mixture, so every bite will have a little bit of everything. Once combined, transfer this mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, smoothing it out so it covers the dish evenly.
Now for the best part: the cheese! Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, ensuring it covers the mixture completely. This will create that irresistible cheesy layer.
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the breadcrumbs until they’re well coated. Sprinkle this buttery topping over the cheese layer. It’ll bake into a crispy, golden crust that complements the soft interior beautifully.
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and has a nice golden hue. Once done, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before digging in. This will make it easier to serve and allow the flavors to meld together perfectly.