Chicken and Broccoli Cheesy Casserole – Easy Weeknight Dinner Everyone Will Love

When you need a comforting, creamy, and satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy, this Chicken and Broccoli Cheesy Casserole is the perfect solution. Made with tender chicken, fresh broccoli florets, and a rich, homemade cheese sauce, this baked casserole is ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even casual gatherings.

This recipe combines simple ingredients into a warm and hearty dish that feels like comfort food at its best. It’s loaded with protein, packed with vegetables, and finished with a golden, bubbly cheese topping that makes every bite irresistible.

If you’re searching for an easy chicken casserole recipe that’s creamy, cheesy, and ready in under an hour, this is the one you’ll want to save.

Recipe Details

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy
Perfect For: Weeknight dinners, meal prep, family meals

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this creamy chicken and broccoli casserole, gather the following ingredients:

2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed)
3 cups fresh broccoli florets
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra meltiness)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup cooked rice or pasta (optional for a heartier meal)
½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers (optional topping)

These simple pantry ingredients come together to create a rich and creamy casserole packed with flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli

Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the broccoli florets for about 2–3 minutes. You want them slightly tender but still bright green and crisp.

Drain the broccoli well and pat dry if needed. Removing excess moisture helps prevent a watery casserole.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

Cream of chicken soup
Heavy cream (or milk)
Minced garlic
Onion powder
Paprika
Salt and pepper

Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Stir in 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese and mix until well combined. Reserve the remaining cheese for topping.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

Add the cooked chicken and broccoli to the bowl with the creamy sauce. If you’re using cooked rice or pasta, fold it in at this stage.

Gently mix everything together until evenly coated in the cheese mixture.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.

Top with:

Remaining cheddar cheese
Mozzarella cheese (if using)
Breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a crispy topping

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.

Remove from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole firm up and makes it easier to slice.

Why This Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Is So Popular

There’s a reason this dish is a go-to family dinner:

Creamy and cheesy texture
Balanced with protein and vegetables
Great way to use leftover chicken
Kid-friendly and comforting
Easy to customize
Perfect for make-ahead meals

It combines wholesome ingredients with classic comfort flavors, making it a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with:

Garlic bread or dinner rolls
A simple green salad
Roasted carrots or green beans
Mashed potatoes
Fresh fruit on the side

It’s hearty enough to be served alone, but adding a side makes it feel like a complete, satisfying dinner.

Variations and Custom Ideas

Make this casserole your own with these easy changes:

Add sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor
Mix in cooked bacon bits for a smoky twist
Use rotisserie chicken for convenience
Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or Colby cheese
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
Make it low-carb by skipping rice and breadcrumbs
Use brown rice for a healthier version

These small adjustments can give you a slightly different flavor each time you make it.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave for 1–2 minutes per serving.
For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

This makes it perfect for meal prep or preparing dinner in advance.

Approximate Nutrition Per Serving

Calories: 420–500
Protein: 30–35g
Fat: 25–30g
Carbohydrates: 15–30g (depending on rice or pasta)

Tips for the Best Cheesy Casserole

Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
Don’t overcook the broccoli before baking.
Let the casserole rest before serving for cleaner slices.
Taste and adjust seasoning before baking.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken and Broccoli Cheesy Casserole is the ultimate easy weeknight dinner. It’s creamy, comforting, packed with flavor, and simple to prepare. Whether you’re feeding a busy family, preparing meals ahead of time, or just craving something warm and cheesy, this recipe delivers every time.

With its rich cheese sauce, tender chicken, and nutritious broccoli, it strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and a wholesome meal.