Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

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Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is a warm, hearty, and wholesome baked dish combining tender chicken, fresh or frozen broccoli, and a creamy sauce, all topped with cheese and often breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a crispy finish. It’s a popular choice for easy weeknight dinners, potlucks, and meal prepping because of its versatility, one-pan simplicity, and crowd-pleasing flavor.




🌍 Origins & Popularity

  • American Roots: Casseroles became popular in the U.S. in the mid-20th century as convenience foods (like canned soups) became common in home kitchens. Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is one of many classic “church cookbook” or “family reunion” style dishes.

  • Enduring Favorite: Loved across generations for its balance of protein, veggies, and creamy comfort in one dish.

🍗 Key Ingredients

🐓 Chicken

  • Usually cooked and shredded or cubed.

  • Common options: rotisserie chicken, poached chicken breasts, or leftover roast chicken.

🥦 Broccoli

  • Can be fresh or frozen.

  • Steamed or blanched before baking to ensure tenderness.

🥣 Creamy Sauce

  • Classic base: Canned cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup (or both).

  • Homemade alternative: Roux-based sauce with milk, chicken broth, garlic, and cheese.

🧀 Cheese

  • Cheddar is the most common, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix work well.

  • Added for creaminess and that melty, gooey top.

🍞 Topping

  • Breadcrumbs (buttered for crispness)

  • Crushed Ritz crackers or cornflakes (popular in Southern-style versions)

  • Extra cheese (for a stretchy, bubbly finish)

🍽️ How It’s Made (Basic Steps)

  1. Cook chicken (or use pre-cooked/leftovers).

  2. Blanch or steam broccoli just until tender-crisp.

  3. Mix together chicken, broccoli, soup or sauce, cheese, and seasonings.

  4. Spread into a greased casserole dish.

  5. Top with more cheese and breadcrumbs/crackers.

  6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25–30 minutes, until hot and bubbly.

  7. Serve warm, optionally with rice, pasta, or a simple green salad.

🌱 Popular Variations

  • Low-Carb: Use a homemade sauce without flour, and skip breadcrumbs.

  • Keto: Add cream cheese and heavy cream; use pork rind topping.

  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soup or make your own, and substitute topping with gluten-free crumbs.

  • Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce.

  • With Rice or Pasta: Stir cooked white rice, wild rice, or pasta into the casserole for a one-dish meal.

  • Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use veggie broth.

🧾 Nutritional Snapshot (Approximate per Serving)

(Varies based on recipe and portion size)

  • Calories: 350–500 kcal

  • Protein: 25–35g

  • Fat: 20–30g

  • Carbs: 10–25g

  • Fiber: 2–5g

🥄 Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with:

    • Garlic bread or dinner rolls

    • A light salad (e.g., lemon vinaigrette or balsamic greens)

    • Mashed potatoes or rice if not included in the casserole

⭐ Why It’s Loved

  • Quick and easy — ideal for busy weeknights

  • Make-ahead and freezer-friendly

  • Kid-friendly and customizable to different tastes

  • Balanced meal with protein and vegetables

  • Comforting and nostalgic for many families

Would you like a printable recipe, meal prep instructions, or a healthier version of this dish?

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