Easy Chicken Broccoli Casserole

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This easy Chicken Broccoli Casserole is super easy to prep ahead for easy weeknight dinners and meal prep!! It’s creamy, hearty, and filled with classic flavors the whole family will love.

top down view of the finished chicken broccoli casserole with with serving spoon

If you are always on the lookout for tasty dishes that can help you clean out your fridge and make the most of leftovers, this Chicken Broccoli Casserole is a game-changer. It’s made with ingredients you have on hand and is ready in under an hour.

Picture tender chunks of chicken, loads of vibrant broccoli, earthy mushrooms, and the delightful crunch of water chestnuts, coated in a velvety, cheesy, and creamy concoction. And the best part? It’s crowned with a golden-brown layer of crispy croutons. I mean, is your mouth watering yet?

Hearty Casseroles like my Easy Tater Tot Casserole and this Mexican Taco Casserole are always a hit in my house. Likewise, this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole recipe is the kind of recipe you’ll want to make sure you always have the ingredients on hand. 

two portions of chicken broccoli casserole served in white bowls and set next to the casserole dish

For families, this broccoli chicken casserole is a hero on weeknights. After a long day, the last thing you want is to spend hours in the kitchen. With minimal prep and a straightforward cooking process, this recipe allows you to serve up a nutritious dinner without sacrificing precious family time.

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Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in those veggies for the little ones – who can resist the appeal of cheesy broccoli and chicken casserole?

Why make this recipe

  • It’s Convenient – This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you want a hassle-free meal. Plus, it’s made with ingredients you already have in your pantry.
  • It’s Affordable – With budget-friendly ingredients, this casserole won’t put a dent in your wallet, making it perfect for cost-conscious cooks.
  • Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the creamy, cheesy goodness of this casserole, making it a hit with the whole family.

Ingredient Notes

  • Broccoli Florets – Broccoli is a star ingredient, adding a vibrant green color and nutrition to the casserole. You can use fresh or defrosted frozen broccoli, depending on what’s available or convenient.
  • Mushrooms – Canned mushrooms don’t just provide convenience, they also add an earthy flavor and textural contrast. If you prefer, you can substitute with fresh mushrooms, sliced and sautéed until tender.
  • Chicken – Use cooked chicken, whether cubed or shredded. Boiling chicken tenders is easy and convenient. Rotisserie chicken is a great option for convenience. You can also use turkey or another cooked poultry as a substitution.
  • Water Chestnuts – Water chestnuts add a delightful crunch. You can substitute with sliced bamboo shoots for a similar texture.
  • Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Shredded cheddar cheese provides a rich, cheesy flavor. You can choose another type of cheese like Monterey Jack or Swiss if you prefer.
  • Cream Soup – Condensed soup, such as cream of chicken soup or cream of mushroom soup, is the creamy base of the casserole. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, consider using low-sodium or reduced-fat soup.
  • Mayonnaise – Mayonnaise adds creaminess and a slight tang to the dish. You can substitute with sour cream or use a lighter mayo or Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
  • Lemon Juice – Lemon juice adds a zesty, fresh flavor. You can use fresh lemon juice or bottled lemon juice for convenience.
  • Curry Powder – Curry powder imparts a subtle hint of spice and complexity to the casserole. Adjust the quantity to your spice preference or omit it if you’re not a fan of curry flavors.
  • Croutons – Croutons provide a crunchy, golden topping. You can choose plain or seasoned croutons, or make your own by toasting cubed bread with a drizzle of olive oil and your preferred seasoning.
the ingredients needed to make this broccoli and chicken casserole recipe

Handy Tip: Use Good Kitchen Tools!

For the best tools to help make your recipe even easier and more successful, check out my collection of the Best Kitchen Tools on Amazon.

How To Make Chicken Broccoli Casserole

Making casseroles is a great way to save time and money. Check out these casseroles for more flavorful ideas your family will love. 

Get complete ingredients list and instructions from the recipe card further below.

the first steps for making this broccoli chicken casserole recipe
the second step in making this chicken broccoli casserole recipe

Step 1: Cook chicken (or use a pre-made rotisserie chicken) and shred or chop, then set aside. Combine the cream soup, mayo, lemon juice, and curry powder in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Add in the broccoli, chicken, mushrooms, water chestnuts, and cheese. Then stir to combine.

the third step in making this casserole recipe
the final step for making broccoli chicken casserole

Step 3: Add mixture to a casserole dish and top with croutons.

Step 4: Bake in a preheated 350 degrees F / 180 degrees C oven for 45 minutes.

Expert Tips

  • You can easily use leftover chicken.
  • Boil the chicken breasts until cooked through. Shred or chop the chicken and add it to the recipe.
  • Grab a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken from your local market. Remove the skin and pick the chicken off the bones. Chop or shred before adding to the recipe. 
  • Mayonnaise is not a common casserole ingredient, but the combination of the mayo, cream soup, lemon juice, and curry creates a delectable sauce that makes this recipe oh-so-tasty.
  • If you are using frozen broccoli (which is totally okay!), be sure to defrost it completely and then drain any excess water before adding to the casserole mixture. 
  • If using fresh broccoli, I recommend steaming it before adding to the casserole so that the pieces are nice and tender. 
  • While it’s tempting to load up on cheese and croutons, avoid overdoing it. A light layer of croutons on top is enough to create a crispy texture without overwhelming the dish.
  • Cover the casserole with aluminum foil during the first part of baking to prevent the top from getting too brown too soon. Remove the foil during the last part of baking to achieve that perfect golden-brown finish.
  • After removing the casserole from the oven, allow it to rest for a few minutes. This lets the flavors meld and makes it easier to cut and serve.
chicken broccoli casserole with one serving removed

Delicious Variations

  • Vegetarian Version – Leave out the chicken for a vegetarian version. You can sub in additional veggies or tofu if desired.
  • Cream Soup – Any flavor will do! I have made this with cream of mushroom, cream of chicken, and even cream of broccoli soup. The flavors are slightly different with each, but still SO yummy!
  • Swap the Cheese – Cheddar cheese is classic in this dish, but you could substitute white cheddar, Colby, or a Monterey Jack blend. 
  • Swap the Croutons – Croutons add a layer of crunch to this recipe. If you don’t have croutons on hand, you can cube up some toasted bread and toss it with a bit of melted butter before topping the casserole. Swapping in crushed crackers or potato chips will totally work too. Get creative!

Prep and Storage

  • Prep – This broccoli chicken casserole is perfect for family gatherings, and making it in advance will give you more time to spend with your family.  Although this casserole is easy to prepare, you can prep the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in your refrigerator until you are ready to bake it.
  • Store – Place leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze – Casseroles are so easy to freeze and this one is no exception! I like to make a double batch and then freeze one casserole for even easier meal prep in the future. For smaller families, you can divide this casserole recipe in two and freeze half for another meal.
  • Reheat – Reheat large portions in the oven until warmed through. Individual portions can be reheated in the microwave. 
close up view of a spoonful of chicken broccoli casserole

FAQs

Can I make this with frozen broccoli florets?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets in this casserole. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the dish. This can help prevent excess moisture in the casserole.

Can cheesy chicken and broccoli casserole be made in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and freeze it before baking. Be sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as usual. However, the texture of the broccoli may change slightly upon freezing.

Can I make a casserole without canned cream soups?

you can make a homemade cream sauce instead of using canned cream soup. To do this, combine butter, flour, and milk or chicken broth to create a roux-based sauce. Season it to your taste, and use it as a substitute.

Can I make this with different meat?

You can replace chicken with other proteins like turkey, cooked ground beef, or even seafood like shrimp or crab. The key is to use fully cooked meats that pair well with the creamy, cheesy flavors of the casserole.

Can I leave out the curry powder?

If you’re not a fan of curry powder, you can substitute it with other seasonings like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs like thyme or oregano. Choose a seasoning that complements your taste preferences.

Similar Recipes

Check out all my Casserole Recipes or start with the selection below.

Serve With

Here are a few things you can pair with this Broccoli Chicken Casserole to make a complete meal. 

Recommended Tools

  • An awesome can opener to open cans easily at the push of a button.
  • I love a large casserole dish, but I also like to pick up some disposable ones so I can easily freeze casseroles for later.
  • A set of handy measuring cups and spoons is a must for any kitchen.
  • For the best tools to help make your recipe even easier and more successful, check out my collection of the Best Kitchen Tools on Amazon.

More Casserole Recipes

Be sure to try some of my other awesome casserole recipes!

Weight Watchers Points

There are 6 Blue Plan SmartPoints in one serving of this.

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top down view of the finished chicken broccoli casserole with with serving spoon
Print Recipe
5 from 6 votes

Chicken Broccoli Casserole

This hearty and satisfying Chicken Broccoli Casserole is a true family favorite!
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Western
Servings: 6
Calories: 357kcal
Author: Bintu Hardy

Ingredients

  • 1 pound (450g) broccoli florets fresh or defrosted frozen
  • 4 ounces (113g) can of mushrooms drained
  • 4 cups (500g) chicken cooked and cubed or shredded
  • 8 ounces (227g) can water chestnuts drained
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
  • 21 ounces (600mL) cream soup two 10 ½ ounce cans
  • ½ cup (115g) mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon curry powder
  • croutons for topping

Instructions

  • Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and set aside. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F / 176 degrees C.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine soup, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and curry powder.
  • Then add in broccoli, mushrooms, chicken, water chestnuts, and cheddar cheese. Stir to combine.
  • Pour into the prepared casserole dish and top with croutons.
  • Bake for 45 minutes.
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Notes

    • You can easily use leftover chicken.
    • Boil the chicken breasts until cooked through. Shred or chop the chicken and add it to the recipe.
    • Grab a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken from your local market. Remove the skin and pick the chicken off the bones. Chop or shred before adding to the recipe. 
    • Mayonnaise is not a common casserole ingredient, but the combination of the mayo, cream soup, lemon juice, and curry creates a delectable sauce that makes this recipe oh-so-tasty.
    • If you are using frozen broccoli (which is totally okay!), be sure to defrost it completely and then drain any excess water before adding to the casserole mixture. 
    • If using fresh broccoli, I recommend steaming it before adding to the casserole so that the pieces are nice and tender. 
    • While it’s tempting to load up on cheese and croutons, avoid overdoing it. A light layer of croutons on top is enough to create a crispy texture without overwhelming the dish.
    • Cover the casserole with aluminum foil during the first part of baking to prevent the top from getting too brown too soon. Remove the foil during the last part of baking to achieve that perfect golden-brown finish.
    • After removing the casserole from the oven, allow it to rest for a few minutes. This lets the flavors meld and makes it easier to cut and serve.
    • There are 6 WW Blue Plan SmartPoints in one serving of this.

Nutrition

Calories: 357kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 33g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Cholesterol: 91mg | Sodium: 1207mg | Potassium: 856mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 706IU | Vitamin C: 70mg | Calcium: 185mg | Iron: 2mg

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Recipe Rating




6 Comments

  1. 5 stars
    I loved this recipe. Me husband has never liked anything with curry in it but really enjoyed this. I used a frozen blend of broccoli cauliflower and carrots because that’s what I on hand.

  2. 5 stars
    We just finished the whole casserole in one seating! Such delish and what and easy one for weeknights dinners! Thank you for sharing!

  3. 5 stars
    This casserole is so filling and flavorful! I love added crunch from the croutons. It is a perfect weeknight dinner that I can’t wait to make again!

  4. 5 stars
    This is one of our favorite weeknight meals! It turns out perfectly every time!