Make this creamy chicken broccoli and cheese recipe in under an hour. A family-friendly, cheesy casserole that’s healthy, flavorful, and perfect for weeknights.
Chicken Broccoli and Cheese Recipe
This chicken broccoli and cheese recipe is a weeknight favorite, combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and gooey cheddar or mozzarella for a creamy, satisfying meal.
Perfect as a cheddar broccoli chicken bake or a keto chicken broccoli cheese casserole, it’s versatile and easy to make. Use rotisserie chicken to save time or try a healthy chicken broccoli casserole version for lighter comfort food that everyone loves.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes / Keyword Use |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breast (cooked, shredded) | 2 cups | Rotisserie chicken works well; essential for chicken broccoli and cheese recipe |
| Broccoli florets (fresh) | 3 cups | Lightly steamed; used in cheddar broccoli chicken bake |
| Cheddar cheese (shredded) | 1 ½ cups | Key for creamy, cheesy flavor |
| Mozzarella or Parmesan cheese (shredded) | ½ cup | Adds richness and depth |
| Cream of chicken soup or heavy cream | 10.5 oz or ¾ cup | Makes casserole creamy; works for keto chicken broccoli cheese casserole |
| Garlic powder | ½ tsp | Enhances flavor |
| Onion powder | ½ tsp | Mild seasoning |
| Paprika | ½ tsp | Adds subtle smokiness |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Basic seasoning |
| Optional: Bread crumbs or cooked rice | ½ cup bread crumbs / 1 cup rice | For topping or hearty healthy chicken broccoli casserole |
Step-by-Step Instructions
| Step | Instructions | Keyword / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray. | Sets up for chicken broccoli and cheese recipe |
| 2 | Steam or blanch broccoli florets for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain well to avoid a watery casserole. | Keeps broccoli vibrant for cheddar broccoli chicken bake |
| 3 | Shred cooked chicken breast (or use rotisserie chicken for convenience) and place in a large mixing bowl. | Rotisserie chicken saves time for creamy chicken broccoli casserole |
| 4 | Add the steamed broccoli, 1 ½ cups cheddar, ½ cup mozzarella/Parmesan, cream of chicken soup (or heavy cream), garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently. | Combines ingredients naturally; highlights keto chicken broccoli cheese casserole alternative |
| 5 | Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top and optionally sprinkle bread crumbs or extra cheese. | Adds texture and flavor for healthy chicken broccoli casserole |
| 6 | Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown. | Ensures perfect casserole finish |
| 7 | Remove from oven, let it rest 5 minutes, then serve warm. Enjoy! | Ready to serve; emphasizes comfort-food appeal |
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Broccoli and Cheese Casserole
Use fresh broccoli for the best texture in your chicken broccoli and cheese recipe. Let shredded or rotisserie chicken rest before mixing for tenderness.
Combine cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan for extra creaminess. For a keto chicken broccoli cheese casserole, swap rice for cauliflower rice.
Season carefully with garlic, onion powder, and paprika. Optional bread crumbs add a golden, crunchy topping.
Enjoy Your Delicious Chicken Broccoli and Cheese Recipe
This chicken broccoli and cheese recipe is creamy, cheesy, and simple enough for weeknight dinners. Whether you make a cheddar broccoli chicken bake, a keto chicken broccoli cheese casserole, or a lighter healthy chicken broccoli casserole, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutritional Information and Benefits
| Nutrient / Benefit | Amount per Serving | Notes / Keyword Use |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 350–400 kcal | Provides a satisfying, hearty portion for the chicken broccoli and cheese recipe |
| Protein | 30–35 g | High protein from chicken supports muscle health; essential in cheddar broccoli chicken bake |
| Fat | 18–22 g | Comes from cheese and cream, adding richness and flavor |
| Carbohydrates | 10–15 g | Low to moderate; can reduce further in keto chicken broccoli cheese casserole by replacing rice or bread crumbs with cauliflower rice |
| Fiber | 3–5 g | Fresh broccoli adds fiber, supporting digestion and overall health |
| Vitamins & Minerals | Vitamin C, Calcium, Iron | Broccoli contributes vitamins; cheese adds calcium for bone health |
| Benefit | Balanced & nutritious | Works for healthy chicken broccoli casserole versions while keeping it creamy and flavorful |
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this chicken broccoli and cheese recipe ahead of time?
A1: Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Simply bake it right before serving to keep the texture creamy and the cheese perfectly melted..
Q2: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A2: Yes. Thaw and drain well to avoid a watery casserole. Fresh broccoli gives the best texture and flavor in a cheddar broccoli chicken bake.
Q3: Can I make it keto-friendly?
A3: Absolutely. Replace rice or bread crumbs with cauliflower rice to create a keto chicken broccoli cheese casserole, and use full-fat cheeses and cream.
Q4: Can I use other cheeses?
A4: Yes, mozzarella, Parmesan, or a mix adds extra creaminess to your creamy chicken broccoli casserole.
Q5: Can I add other vegetables?
A5: Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can enhance flavor and make it a versatile healthy chicken broccoli casserole.
Q6: How do I store leftovers?
A6: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
Hi, I’m Sidra Asif, the heart behind Chicken Bites. Cooking has been my lifelong passion, sparked by the magical meals I watched my mother create in our family kitchen. Over the years, I’ve explored diverse cuisines, earned a diploma in Culinary Arts, and refined my skills in professional kitchens—learning the art of flavor pairing, presentation, and creativity.
Through Chicken Bites, I share my favorite recipes, cooking tips, and culinary adventures to inspire home cooks to turn everyday ingredients into extraordinary meals. Join me on this flavorful journey where tradition meets innovation, and every dish is made with love! 🍗✨
