Name: Chicken Broccoli Bake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded; 3 cups broccoli florets; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup; 1/2 cup mayonnaise or sour cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 2 eggs, beaten; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup bread crumbs (optional); 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil, melted; 2 cups cooked rice or pasta (optional, for serving)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Broccoli Bake is the perfect comfort food that combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, all baked together into a delicious casserole. It’s a great dish for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or feeding a family without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without compromising on flavor!

Ingredients

Chicken breast
Broccoli florets
Cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
Mayonnaise or sour cream
Shredded cheddar cheese
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika
Eggs
Parmesan cheese
Bread crumbs (optional)
Butter or olive oil
Cooked rice or pasta (optional base)

Directions

Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.
Prepare the Chicken – Cook the chicken breast by boiling, baking, or pan-searing until fully cooked. Let it cool slightly, then chop or shred it into bite-sized pieces.
Blanch the Broccoli – Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the broccoli florets. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes, then immediately transfer to an ice bath to retain their color and texture. Drain well.
Mix the Sauce – In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom (or cream of chicken) soup, mayonnaise (or sour cream), shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir until everything is well combined.
Assemble the Casserole – In a greased baking dish, layer the chopped chicken and broccoli evenly. Pour the sauce mixture over the top and spread it evenly.
Add the Toppings – Beat the eggs and mix them with grated Parmesan cheese. Pour over the casserole for a golden crust. If using bread crumbs, mix them with melted butter and sprinkle them on top for added crunch.
Bake – Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Serve – Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy as is, or serve over rice or pasta for a heartier meal.

Variations

Low-Carb Option: Skip the bread crumbs and use a mixture of almond flour and Parmesan for a crunchy topping.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
Extra Veggies: Include bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for more nutrients and flavor.
Dairy-Free Alternative: Use dairy-free cheese and coconut or cashew-based alternatives for the sauce.
Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with turkey, shrimp, or tofu for different protein options.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes! Just thaw and drain the broccoli before using it in the casserole.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. What cheese works best for this recipe?

Cheddar is classic, but you can also use mozzarella, Colby Jack, or a combination for more depth of flavor.

4. How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and opt for a low-fat cheese alternative.

5. Can I add pasta or rice directly into the bake?

Yes, but ensure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the casserole to prevent excess moisture.

6. How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too watery?

Drain the broccoli well after blanching and use full-fat dairy ingredients to prevent excess liquid.

7. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! It’s a great shortcut. Just shred the cooked rotisserie chicken and add it directly.

8. What side dishes pair well with this?

Garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables are great choices.

9. How do I get a crispier topping?

Broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy crust.

10. Can I use homemade cream soup instead of canned?

Definitely! A homemade version with butter, flour, broth, and milk will enhance the flavor.

Conclusion

This Chicken Broccoli Bake is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious weeknight dinner, a potluck favorite, or a meal-prep option, this dish will not disappoint. Try it out and enjoy a warm, cheesy, and satisfying meal!

Print