Savory Chicken & Broccoli Casserole
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.
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Ingredients for Savory Chicken & Broccoli Casserole
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.
Savory Chicken & Broccoli Casserole Tips & Tricks
- Steam the broccoli until just tender to avoid mushiness.
- For extra flavor, use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar.
- To save time, prep the dish a day ahead and bake when ready to serve.
Serving Ideas for Savory Chicken & Broccoli Casserole
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of cream of mushroom soup?
- Yes, you can sauté fresh mushrooms and use a bit of chicken broth and cream to create a similar consistency.
- Can I freeze this casserole?
- Absolutely. Assemble the casserole as directed, but don’t bake it. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.
- What can I substitute for sour cream?
- Plain Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you’re looking for a lower-fat option.
Savory Chicken & Broccoli Casserole Recipe Walkthrough
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.
Why This Savory Chicken & Broccoli Casserole Works
- Perfect for using up leftover chicken.
- Quick to prep with minimal cleanup.
- Rich with cheesy goodness and healthy greens.
- Can be made ahead for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-step Instructions
- 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- 2. In a large bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Add the cooked chicken and steamed broccoli to the mixture and stir well until everything is evenly coated.
- 4. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading evenly.
- 5. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring it covers the mixture fully.
- 6. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with breadcrumbs and sprinkle over the cheese layer.
- 7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- 8. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.