Chicken Broccoli Supper
A comforting chicken and broccoli casserole with cheesy goodness, ideal for quick weeknight dinners or family gatherings, combining creamy, savory flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken, frozen broccoli florets, cooked macaroni, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Whisk together the undiluted cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, and pepper until well blended.
- Pour the soup mixture into the bowl with the chicken and vegetables, and stir until evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 1 1/2-quart baking dish.
- Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a bit of lemon juice and Italian seasoning before cooking. If you don’t have elbow macaroni, any small pasta, like shells or penne, will work. You can also substitute the frozen broccoli with fresh broccoli or other vegetables like cauliflower or green beans. For a creamier texture, mix in a little sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken Broccoli Supper with a light side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Chicken-Cheese Rolls for a comforting dinner. For a heartier option, consider adding roasted potatoes or a grain like quinoa on the side. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or until heated through, stirring halfway to ensure even warming. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Broccoli Supper contains roughly 302 calories, with 15g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (83% of the Daily Value), protein (31% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 998mg per serving (43% 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, you can use fresh broccoli. Just make sure to blanch it briefly in boiling water before mixing it in, so it cooks evenly in the oven. Fresh broccoli will provide a bit more crunch compared to frozen, which can be a nice texture contrast.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
Absolutely! You can use whole grain pasta to increase the fiber content and choose low-fat cheese and soup options. Additionally, adding more vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, can boost the nutritional value without sacrificing flavor.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you’re ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's coming 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).