Creamy Chicken Casserole (Easy)
A comforting creamy chicken casserole with broccoli and cheese, perfect for family dinners. Rich, savory flavors come together quickly in this easy baked dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Put in the cooked chicken and steamed broccoli on top.
- Mix mayonnaise, cream of chicken soup, and lemon juice.
- Pour the mixture over the broccoli and chicken.
- Combine grated cheese and bread crumbs, then sprinkle on top.
- Pour melted butter over the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. If you want to add more flavor, experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack. You can also incorporate other veggies such as bell peppers or mushrooms. This dish works well as a base for leftovers, so feel free to mix in any cooked vegetables you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy chicken casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad like Broccoli-Cauliflower Tossed Salad or some crusty bread. For a complete meal, serve it alongside rice or roasted vegetables. You can also garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place 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 them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Chicken Casserole (Easy) contains roughly 809 calories, with 13g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (26% of the Daily Value), protein (25% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2140mg per serving (93% 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 steam it until tender before adding it to the casserole. Fresh broccoli will provide a slightly different texture but will still work well in this dish.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you don't have cream of chicken soup, you can make a homemade version using chicken broth, milk, and a thickener like flour or cornstarch. Alternatively, cream of mushroom soup can be a good substitute for a different flavor.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold 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).