Creamy Chicken Broccoli Casserole Recipe

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Creamy chicken broccoli casserole is one of those dishes that makes you feel right at home. Its comforting vibe pairs beautifully with a variety of side items. You can serve it with a crisp green salad dressed simply in olive oil and lemon juice. Alternatively, garlic bread comes in handy to scoop up the delicious sauce.

For those seeking a bit more heft, roasted potatoes or steamed carrots provide a great contrast in texture and flavor. If you want to elevate your meal further, consider adding a light, refreshing beverage. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon will complement the dish perfectly. Now, let’s dive into this wholesome recipe that delivers creamy deliciousness packed with chicken and broccoli goodness.

Let’s face it: some days call for a bit of comfort food. When I find myself craving something warm, filling, and easy to prepare, creamy chicken broccoli casserole is my go-to dish. I remember the first time I made it; my kitchen smelled like a homey diner, and my family gathered ’round, eagerly waiting for a taste.

It’s funny how food can create those moments, where everyone sits down and shares stories over a satisfying meal. You get the warmth of tender chicken, the crunch of fresh broccoli, and the creamy texture that hugs your taste buds just right. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a simple way to bring loved ones together.

Table of Contents

What is Creamy Chicken Broccoli Casserole?

Creamy chicken broccoli casserole comes together as a baked dish featuring chicken, broccoli, rice, and a dreamy cream sauce. The essentials work in perfect harmony, creating a balanced meal many love.

This beloved casserole combines cooked chicken with tender broccoli and rice, all enveloped in a rich sauce made from cream of chicken soup and cheese. It’s hearty enough for dinner and makes for killer leftovers. It’s nourishing to the soul. Each spoonful tells a story of comfort from simple ingredients transformed into something delightful.

What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Creamy Chicken Broccoli Casseroles?

What sets this recipe apart is its dedication to flavor and healthiness. Many casserole recipes rely heavily on cream and butter, often leading to a heavy meal. This dish finds a middle ground. A touch of sharp cheddar cheese blended with sour cream gives that creamy texture without overdoing it. That Dijon mustard? It might seem small, but it adds an unexpected flair that elevates the whole experience. This isn’t your average casserole; it’s crafted with intention in mind to bring out the best flavors without making you feel sluggish after a hearty meal.

How Does It Taste?

The taste is a delightful blend of creamy and cheesy with a hint of tang from the Dijon mustard. The broccoli adds a fresh crunch, perfectly countering the richness of the cheese. The chicken lends a savory element while the rice binds everything together into a cohesive dish. Every bite feels like a warm embrace. For me, the most rewarding part is savoring that first spoonful, followed by someone asking for seconds. You’ll find that this casserole generously warms the heart as much as the belly.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish:

Before you roll up your sleeves in the kitchen, gather the following ingredients:

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (adds subtle tang and depth without overpowering)
2½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
½ cup whole milk
1¼ cups uncooked white long grain rice
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or 2 cups diced rotisserie chicken
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
½ cup sour cream
2 to 3 cups raw broccoli florets
1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
1 teaspoon dried Italian herb blend

how to make creamy chicken broccoli casserole

Step by Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Here’s a simple, detailed guide to prepare the creamy chicken broccoli casserole.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, you can prep your other ingredients!

Step 2: Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, bring 2½ cups of low-sodium chicken broth to a boil. Add 1¼ cups of uncooked white long grain rice, reduce to low heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

While the rice is cooking, you can cook the chicken. If you’re using raw boneless skinless chicken breasts, season them with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove from the heat, chop it into bite-sized pieces, and set aside. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, simply chop it and skip to the next step.

Step 4: Sauté the Broccoli

In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 2 to 3 cups of raw broccoli florets and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and just tender. Don’t overcook; you want them to retain some crunch.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup of whole milk, ½ cup of sour cream, 1 (10.5 oz) can of condensed cream of chicken soup, and ½ teaspoon of Dijon mustard until smooth. Then, fold in the cooked rice, chicken, sautéed broccoli, and 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herb blend. Mix it all together until everything is well coated.

Step 6: Add Cheese

Reserve 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, then add the remaining cheese to the mixture. Stir it in until well incorporated.

Step 7: Transfer to Casserole Dish

Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Make sure to spread it out evenly.

Step 8: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the reserved 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. This will create a delicious cheesy crust.

Step 9: Bake

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and golden brown.

Step 10: Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Tricks On Making Creamy Chicken Broccoli Casserole

Here are some savvy tips to elevate your casserole game:

Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh broccoli instead of frozen. It can make a significant difference.
Season Well: Don’t shy away from seasoning your chicken well before cooking. It enhances the final dish.
Add Variations: Consider incorporating other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for more color and nutrition.
Control the Creaminess: If the dish feels too rich, add a bit more broth or milk until you reach the desired creaminess.
Prep Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for a day. Just increase the baking time slightly if cooking it straight from the fridge.

Nutrition Information

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional value per serving (assuming 8 servings):

It’s rich in protein thanks to the chicken and cheesy goodness, offering a satisfying meal that provides energy without weighing you down.

How Do I Store This Dish?

Storage is super simple! Allow the casserole to cool completely. Then, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil or transfer it to airtight containers. It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze leftovers. Just make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container, and it can stay good for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

creamy chicken broccoli casserole copycat recipe

What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Creamy Chicken Broccoli Casserole?

This dish is quite forgiving if you want to swap out a few ingredients. Here are some alternatives:

Quinoa Instead of Rice: For a protein boost, substitute long grain rice with quinoa. It brings a nice nutty flavor and is gluten-free.
Cauliflower Rice: For a lower-carb option, use cauliflower rice. It gives the same texture without the extra carbs.
Greek Yogurt for Sour Cream: If you’re looking to cut calories, Greek yogurt offers similar creaminess and adds protein.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: For a twist in flavor, consider using cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken. It adds an earthy taste.
Spicy Mustard: For a little kick, swap in spicy mustard for Dijon. It can elevate the flavor profile.

Creamy Chicken Broccoli Casserole Recipe

Creamy chicken broccoli casserole is one of those dishes that makes you feel right at home. Its comforting vibe pairs beautifully with a variety of side items

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 50

Total Time 1

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings

Calories 972 kcal

Equipment

A large mixing bowl
Oven

Ingredients

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese divided
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
2½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
½ cup whole milk
1¼ cups uncooked white long grain rice
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 cups diced rotisserie chicken
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
½ cup sour cream
2 to 3 cups raw broccoli florets
1 10.5 oz can condensed cream of chicken soup
1 teaspoon dried Italian herb blend