If you need a dependable dinner that feels comforting without creating extra work, this creamy chicken and broccoli casserole is a reliable choice for busy moms and families. It is warm, filling, and made with simple ingredients most kitchens already have on hand. This is the kind of dinner that works on weeknights when schedules are full but you still want something homemade on the table.
Tender chicken, soft broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese bake together in a creamy savory sauce that feels familiar and satisfying. It works well for meal prep, family dinners, or preparing a freezer meal for later.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
What You Need to Know
Use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken if you want dinner ready faster. Frozen broccoli works perfectly once thawed or lightly cooked. Allow the casserole to rest for five minutes before serving so it holds together nicely. To make the meal go further, serve it over rice, egg noodles, or mashed potatoes.
This recipe uses everyday ingredients and simple steps. It reheats well for leftovers, making lunches easy the next day. The creamy texture and classic flavors make it a dinner most families enjoy without needing special adjustments.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 12 ounces frozen broccoli florets
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Season the chicken breast with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a small amount of oil and cook the chicken until fully cooked. Let it cool slightly, then dice into small, even pieces.
Place frozen broccoli in a small saucepan over medium-low heat and cook about five minutes until thawed. Microwaving the broccoli is also a quick option.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix cream of chicken soup and mayonnaise until smooth. Add the diced chicken and stir to combine.
Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Spread the chicken mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish.
Layer the prepared broccoli evenly over the chicken mixture.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly and lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest for five minutes before serving.
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Helpful Tips
Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for busy evenings. Fresh broccoli should be lightly steamed before baking so it softens properly. Greek yogurt or sour cream can replace mayonnaise for a lighter flavor. Adding vegetables like carrots or cauliflower is an easy way to increase nutrition.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 315 kcal
- Protein: 26 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0.02 g
- Cholesterol: 84 mg
- Sodium: 790 mg
- Potassium: 511 mg
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 1 g
- Vitamin A: 757 IU
- Vitamin C: 52 mg
- Calcium: 238 mg
- Iron: 1 mg
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients and preparation methods.