Nothing beats a warm, cheesy casserole fresh out of the oven, and this Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is no exception. Packed with tender shredded chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and a rich homemade cheese sauce, this dish is the perfect combination of hearty and wholesome. Whether you're looking for an easy weeknight dinner, a meal prep favorite, or a family-friendly dish, this casserole is guaranteed to satisfy. Plus, the crunchy Panko topping adds the perfect crispy contrast to the creamy filling.
Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible casserole step by step!
Ingredients & Their Roles
For the Chicken & Broccoli:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The protein base of the casserole. Poached, baked, or rotisserie chicken works well.
- 2 lbs broccoli florets – Adds color, nutrients, and texture. Cooking them to a crisp-tender state ensures they don’t turn mushy.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Enhances flavor and prevents dryness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt & 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and broccoli.
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter – Forms the base of the roux for a creamy sauce.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour – Thickens the sauce, ensuring a smooth, velvety consistency.
- 3 cups milk (whole or 2%) – The liquid component that creates a luscious, rich sauce.
- 1 teaspoon salt & 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Balances the flavors in the cheese sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional) – Adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Provides a sharp, tangy flavor.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Creates a gooey, stretchy texture.
For the Crunchy Topping (Optional, but Recommended!):
- 1/2 cup Panko bread crumbs – Adds a crispy texture to contrast the creamy filling.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter – Helps toast the bread crumbs to a golden perfection.
- Sprinkle of paprika – Provides color and a hint of smokiness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken & Broccoli
✅ Cook and Shred the Chicken: Poach, bake, or use rotisserie chicken for convenience. Once cooked, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces with two forks.
✅ Cook the Broccoli: Steam, roast, or microwave the broccoli florets until they are crisp-tender. They should still have a slight bite since they’ll continue cooking in the oven.
✅ Season the Ingredients: Toss the shredded chicken and cooked broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper to enhance their flavor.
2. Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
✅ Prepare the Roux: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously until a smooth paste forms. This step prevents a raw flour taste.
✅ Add Milk & Seasoning: Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in the salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens.
✅ Melt the Cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until completely melted and smooth.
3. Assemble the Casserole
✅ Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
✅ Layer the Ingredients: In a 9x13-inch casserole dish, evenly spread the chicken and broccoli mixture. Pour the cheese sauce over the top, making sure everything is well-coated.
✅ Prepare the Topping (Optional): Mix Panko bread crumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole. Add a dash of paprika for extra color and flavor.
4. Bake to Perfection
✅ Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
5. Rest & Serve
✅ Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to scoop and serve.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Super Creamy & Cheesy – The homemade cheese sauce makes this casserole rich and comforting.
✔ Nutritious & Wholesome – Packed with lean protein and vegetables, making it a balanced meal.
✔ Family-Friendly – Even picky eaters love the creamy texture and cheesy goodness!
✔ Great for Meal Prep – Make ahead and reheat for a quick weeknight dinner.
✔ Customizable – Easily swap ingredients to fit your taste and dietary needs.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken & Broccoli Casserole
⭐ Use Pre-Cooked Chicken for Convenience – Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor.
⭐ Don’t Overcook the Broccoli – Keep it slightly firm since it continues cooking in the oven.
⭐ Gradually Add Milk to the Sauce – This prevents lumps and ensures a silky-smooth texture.
⭐ For Extra Creaminess, Add Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt – A dollop of either will enhance the richness.
⭐ Want More Crunch? Add crushed Ritz crackers or cornflakes on top instead of Panko.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your meal with:
🥖 Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the cheesy sauce.
🥗 Side Salad – A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness.
🍚 Rice or Pasta – Serve over white rice, brown rice, or buttered egg noodles for a heartier meal.
Make It Ahead & Storage Tips
✅ To Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add 10-15 extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
✅ To Store Leftovers: Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
✅ To Freeze: Wrap the unbaked casserole tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
✅ To Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and comforting—a dish that everyone will love. With its homemade cheese sauce, nutritious broccoli, and tender chicken, it’s a go-to recipe for busy nights. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or as leftovers, this casserole is sure to be a family favorite.
Try this recipe tonight and enjoy a warm, comforting meal that’s easy, delicious, and satisfying!