Chicken 'N Broccoli Casserole
A creamy, cheesy chicken and broccoli casserole with crunchy cracker topping, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings, blending savory flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place broccoli in the bottom of a flat bakeware.
- Add cooked and boned chicken on top of the broccoli.
- Mix cream of chicken soup, broth, and mayonnaise until well combined.
- Heat the mixture if necessary and pour over the chicken and broccoli.
- Cover with a generous amount of shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Top with cracker crumbs tossed in melted oleo (butter).
- Bake at 375°F until the crackers are browned and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier casserole, consider adding a little sour cream or Greek yogurt to the sauce mixture. If you prefer a different vegetable, substitute the broccoli with cauliflower or mixed vegetables. For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. To save time, precook the chicken or use rotisserie chicken. A dash of lemon juice can brighten the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Cheesy Oven-Fried Chicken for a comforting family dinner. Consider adding a side of steamed vegetables or a light vinaigrette-dressed salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken 'N Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 348 calories, with 23g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (75% of the Daily Value), protein (47% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 751mg per serving (33% 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 casserole. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before layering, as excess water can make the dish watery. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can also steam the frozen broccoli slightly before adding it.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you don't have cream of chicken soup, you can use homemade white sauce or a mixture of sour cream and chicken broth as a substitute. Just be sure to season it well to achieve a similar flavor profile.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep this casserole a day in advance. Assemble it up to the baking step, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
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).