Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bake
A creamy, cheesy chicken and broccoli casserole with tender chicken, flavorful cheeses, and nutritious broccoli, perfect for a comforting family dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Combine the chopped chicken, chopped broccoli, cooked rice, Cream of Broccoli Soup, and Broccoli Cheese Soup in a medium pan.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with shredded cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let set for 15 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or sour cream to the mixture. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken can be a great shortcut. You can also substitute the broccoli with other vegetables like cauliflower or spinach for variety. Adjust the type of cheese based on your preference; cheddar or mozzarella works well, similar to what you might find in Cheesy Chicken Subs.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bake is delicious on its own, but pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier side, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or baked potatoes. It also makes for a great potluck dish, as it can easily feed a crowd.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes, or microwave in individual portions for 2-3 minutes. Ensure it's heated evenly to maintain the cheesy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bake contains roughly 205 calories, with 6g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 942mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before mixing it with the other ingredients to prevent the dish from becoming watery.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
What can I use instead of Cream of Broccoli Soup?
If you don't have Cream of Broccoli Soup, you can substitute it with a homemade cream sauce or use Cream of Mushroom Soup for a different flavor. Both options will still provide a creamy consistency for the bake.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).