There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a Broccoli Chicken Casserole baking in the oven. This creamy, cheesy dish brings together tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta, all blanketed in a rich, bubbly sauce. It's a weeknight dinner that's as easy to make as it is to love.

I first discovered this gem while hunting for ways to use up leftover chicken, and it quickly became a staple in our home. Whether you're feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this casserole delivers every time. Let's dive into why this recipe deserves a spot on your table tonight!

Why You'll Love This Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Get ready to embrace your new favorite comfort food! This Broccoli Chicken Casserole is more than just a recipe; it's a lifesaver for busy families and anyone craving something hearty and wholesome.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and a few quick steps, you’ll have a delicious casserole ready for the oven in no time. It’s perfect for those evenings when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Secondly, this dish is family-friendly and picky-eater approved. The combination of cheesy goodness and tender chicken makes it a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, you can customize it to suit everyone's tastes.

It’s also a great way to use up leftovers. Got some cooked chicken or extra veggies sitting in the fridge? Toss them in! This casserole is wonderfully forgiving and works beautifully with what you have on hand.

Lastly, it’s a meal-prepper’s dream. Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for a fuss-free dinner later. It's just as delicious reheated, making it ideal for busy weeks.

Ready to make your new favorite dinner? Let’s talk ingredients!

Ingredients Notes

The secret to the perfect Broccoli Chicken Casserole lies in the combination of fresh ingredients and a rich, flavorful sauce. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

Chicken: This recipe works best with cooked chicken breast or thighs. Rotisserie chicken is an excellent shortcut, as it’s already seasoned and tender.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add a pop of color and a nutritious crunch to the casserole. If you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli works too—just thaw and drain it well before using.
Pasta: Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells are ideal. They hold onto the creamy sauce perfectly, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Cheese: A blend of shredded cheddar and mozzarella gives the casserole its gooey, melty topping. For extra depth, consider adding a sprinkle of Parmesan.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This pantry staple forms the base of the creamy sauce. If you prefer a homemade option, a simple roux with chicken broth and cream works wonderfully.

Special equipment? A 9x13-inch casserole dish is all you need to bring this dish together. A good, sharp knife will also come in handy for chopping chicken and broccoli.

How to Make This Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Creating this cozy dish is straightforward and stress-free. Here’s how to do it:

Prepare Your Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain. Steam the broccoli for 3-4 minutes until bright green and just tender.
Make the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, a cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and a splash of milk or chicken broth. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor.
Combine Everything: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooked pasta, chicken, broccoli, and the sauce. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Assemble the Casserole: Spread the mixture evenly into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese and, if desired, a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

In just about 40 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a piping-hot dish that’s ready to impress!

Storage Options

This Broccoli Chicken Casserole is as convenient to store as it is to make. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigerator: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, cover the unbaked casserole tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Add a splash of milk or broth to keep it creamy.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Broccoli Chicken Casserole is its versatility. Here are some ideas to switch things up:

Protein: Swap the chicken for turkey, ham, or even cooked ground beef.
Veggies: Mix in mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or peas for added flavor and nutrition.
Sauce: For a lighter version, use a can of cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken, or opt for a low-fat alternative.
Cheese: Experiment with different cheese blends, like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or a spicy pepper jack for a kick.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free cream of chicken soup to make this dish celiac-friendly.

No matter how you customize it, this casserole is sure to deliver a satisfying and delicious meal. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

There you have it—your new go-to recipe for a cozy, comforting dinner. Once you try this Broccoli Chicken Casserole, I guarantee it’ll earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. Let me know how you like to customize yours in the comments below!