When you need pure comfort food that everyone will happily eat, this Chicken, Broccoli, and Cheddar Casserole delivers every time. Creamy, cheesy, and topped with a buttery crunch, it’s one of those nostalgic casseroles that feels like a warm hug — and yes, the broccoli totally makes it acceptable as a balanced meal.

Passed down through generations, this family-favorite recipe proves that simple ingredients can create something truly satisfying. Serve it over rice, spoon it into bowls on its own, or enjoy it straight from the casserole dish (no judgment).

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Broccoli Casserole

• Classic comfort food with creamy chicken and melted cheddar
• Quick and easy — just 20 minutes of prep
• Kid-approved, even for picky eaters
• Freezer-friendly and great for leftovers
• Crunchy buttery breadcrumb topping for the perfect texture contrast

It’s ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or anytime you want a no-fuss meal that everyone recognizes and loves.

What Is Chicken, Broccoli, and Cheddar Casserole?

This casserole combines cooked chicken, tender broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and sharp Cheddar cheese, all baked together until hot and bubbly. A simple topping of breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter creates a golden, crispy finish that makes each bite even better.

It’s a timeless American casserole — cozy, filling, and endlessly adaptable.

Ingredients Overview

You only need a handful of pantry and fridge staples:

• Cooked shredded chicken – rotisserie chicken works perfectly
• Cooked broccoli – fresh or frozen
• Condensed cream of chicken soup – the creamy base
• Sour cream – adds richness and tang
• Black pepper – simple seasoning
• Shredded Cheddar cheese – sharp is best for flavor
• Bread crumbs & butter – for the crunchy topping

How to Make Chicken Broccoli and Cheddar Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine:

• Shredded chicken
• Cooked broccoli
• Cream of chicken soup
• Sour cream
• Black pepper

Stir in 1 cup of the Cheddar cheese.

3. Assemble

Spread the mixture into a greased 2-quart casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining Cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

4. Add the Topping

Mix bread crumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle evenly over the casserole.

5. Bake

Bake until hot, bubbly, and lightly golden on top — about 30 to 35 minutes.

Pro Tips for the Best Casserole

• Drain broccoli well to prevent a watery casserole
• Use sharp Cheddar for deeper flavor
• Let the casserole rest 5 minutes before serving so it sets
• For extra crunch, broil for the last 1–2 minutes (watch closely)

Easy Variations & Substitutions

This casserole is famously flexible:

• Ritz crackers or Doritos instead of breadcrumbs
• Add cooked rice or pasta directly to the casserole
• Mix in garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor
• Swap Cheddar for Colby-Jack or sharp white Cheddar
• Add sautéed mushrooms or onions for depth

What to Serve With Chicken Broccoli Casserole

This dish is hearty enough on its own, but it pairs beautifully with:

• Steamed white or brown rice
• Simple green salad
• Garlic bread or dinner rolls
• Roasted carrots or green beans

Storage & Freezing Instructions

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Freezer

Freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. For best results:

• Freeze in individual portions if possible
• Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating

Final Thoughts

This Chicken, Broccoli, and Cheddar Casserole is proof that old-fashioned recipes stick around for a reason. It’s creamy, comforting, endlessly customizable, and incredibly reliable — the kind of dish that becomes part of your regular dinner rotation without effort.