Chicken Broccoli Spears
Creamy chicken and broccoli casserole features tender chicken, fresh or frozen broccoli, and a cheesy, crunchy topping, perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut up frozen broccoli or fresh broccoli into small bite-sized pieces and place in a buttered casserole dish.
- Cut up cooked chicken breasts and layer over the broccoli in the casserole dish.
- Mix the cream of chicken soup with mayonnaise until well combined.
- Spread the soup mixture evenly over the chicken and broccoli.
- Sprinkle grated cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Add bread crumbs or browned cornflake crumbs on top of the cheese.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider seasoning the chicken with garlic powder or onion powder before layering it with the broccoli. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken is a great substitute for cooked chicken breasts. You can also swap the cream of chicken soup with a homemade version using broth and flour for a healthier alternative. Try adding some chopped onions or bell peppers for extra texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Broccoli Spears casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside rice or quinoa. It also works well as a comforting option during potlucks or family gatherings, and can be complemented with dishes like Easy Chicken And Biscuits for a hearty spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are evenly warmed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Broccoli Spears contains roughly 516 calories, with 26g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (79% of the Daily Value) and protein (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 860mg per serving (37% 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 fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh broccoli can be used in place of frozen. Just ensure it's cut into bite-sized pieces and steamed lightly before layering it in the casserole dish to ensure it cooks evenly with the chicken and sauce.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is a popular choice for its sharp flavor, but feel free to mix it with mozzarella for a creamier texture. You can also use a dairy-free cheese alternative if you're looking for a lactose-free option.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
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).