If you’re looking for a warm, comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a crispy, flavorful topping, this Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a big, cozy hug on a plate—perfect for family dinners or whenever you crave something hearty yet fresh. Combining simple ingredients that come together effortlessly, this casserole balances creamy richness with a delightful crunch, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe thrives on simplicity with a handful of essential ingredients. Each one plays a special role, whether it’s adding creaminess, zest, or that wonderful texture contrast that turns a regular dinner into something memorable.
- Rotisserie chicken (3 lbs): Pre-cooked and shredded chicken saves time while offering juicy, flavorful meat that’s the star of the dish.
- Stuffing mix (6 oz box): Provides a crunchy, herb-infused topping that bakes to golden perfection.
- Sour cream (8 oz container): Adds creamy tanginess that lifts the casserole’s flavor and smoothness.
- Cream cheese (4 oz, softened): Contributes richness and helps bind everything together.
- Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup (10.5 oz can): Acts as a savory base that keeps the casserole moist and comforting.
- Fresh broccoli (2 cups, chopped): Gives a fresh, slightly crisp contrast and a pop of green color that brightens the plate.
How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF and lightly spraying a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray so your casserole won’t stick. While the oven warms up, take the rotisserie chicken, remove the skin, and pull the meat away from the bones. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure every forkful delivers tender, juicy chicken. Spread this evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing
Next, take your stuffing mix and prepare it according to the directions on the box. This step is quick but important because the stuffing layer will provide that perfect crunchy topping after baking.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Broccoli Topping
In a bowl, combine the sour cream, softened cream cheese, and the unsalted cream of chicken soup with the chopped fresh broccoli. This mix is the heart of the casserole’s creamy base and fresh vegetable element all in one delicious layer.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spoon and spread this creamy broccoli mixture evenly over the layer of chopped chicken in your baking dish, making sure to cover every bit so that each bite is rich and flavorful. Then, sprinkle the prepared stuffing evenly on top to create a golden, crispy finish once baked.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole uncovered for 30 minutes. As it bakes, the stuffing turns beautifully golden and crispy, while the creamy layers bubble gently beneath, melding all those amazing flavors together into one comforting dish.
How to Serve Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To add a little extra flair, consider sprinkling some freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese on top once the casserole is out of the oven. A dash of black pepper can also enhance the flavors beautifully without overpowering the delicate balance you’ve created.
Side Dishes
This Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe pairs wonderfully with light, refreshing sides like a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or steamed baby carrots. If you want a heartier meal, garlic mashed potatoes or warm crusty bread are perfect companions.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in small ramekins or mini casseroles—perfect for entertaining or making the meal feel special. You could also turn leftovers into tasty wraps or even scoop it onto fresh toast for an unexpected brunch treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, simply cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer portions to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring the flavors stay fresh and delicious.
Freezing
This Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. You can prepare and assemble the casserole completely, then cover it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as usual.
Reheating
To reheat, pop portions in the oven at 350ºF until warmed through and the topping regains some crispness—usually about 15-20 minutes. Microwave reheating works too, but you might lose some of the crispy texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Cooking your own chicken breasts or thighs and shredding them works just as well, though rotisserie chicken speeds everything up and adds a bit of extra seasoning from the get-go.
Is it possible to make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute sour cream and cream cheese with their dairy-free alternatives, and opt for a dairy-free cream of chicken soup or homemade version to keep the casserole creamy without dairy.
Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in some mushrooms, bell peppers, or even cauliflower to boost the veggie content and add different textures and flavors.
What type of stuffing mix works best?
Herb-infused stuffing mixes are ideal because they complement the savory chicken and broccoli flavors. Avoid highly seasoned or flavored mixes that might overpower the dish.
How do I make the topping extra crispy?
For an extra crispy topping, consider adding a bit of melted butter over the stuffing before baking or sprinkling some panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dish that feels both comforting and fresh, and this Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe hits that balance perfectly. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or preparing for a cozy weekend meal, this casserole will quickly become a go-to favorite. Give it a try—you might just find your new comfort food obsession!
Print
Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting Chicken & Broccoli Casserole that combines tender rotisserie chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy sauce topped with crunchy stuffing. Perfect for an easy family dinner with a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (3-lb) deli rotisserie chicken
- 1 (6-oz) box stuffing mix
- 1 (8-oz) container sour cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 (10.5-oz) can unsalted cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups chopped fresh broccoli
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Prepare Chicken: Remove the skin from the rotisserie chicken. Pull the chicken meat from the bones, discard the bones, and chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Spread the chopped chicken evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Make Stuffing: Prepare the stuffing mix according to the package directions, typically involving combining with boiling water and letting it stand until fluffy. Once ready, set aside.
- Mix Sauce and Broccoli: In a bowl, combine the sour cream, softened cream cheese, unsalted cream of chicken soup, and chopped fresh broccoli. Mix well until evenly blended and then spread this mixture over the layer of chicken in the baking dish.
- Add Stuffing Topping: Evenly top the casserole with the prepared stuffing mixture, spreading it out to cover the broccoli mixture completely.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the stuffing is golden brown.
Notes
- Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor.
- If fresh broccoli is not available, frozen broccoli can be used; thaw and drain excess water before mixing.
- For a lower sodium option, choose reduced-sodium cream of chicken soup and stuffing mix.
- To add extra flavor, consider sprinkling shredded cheese on top before baking.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time, covered, and refrigerated until ready to bake.
