Save A comforting creamy casserole featuring tender chicken fresh broccoli and a golden cheddar cheese topping—perfect for a family dinner or potluck.
I first made this Chicken & Broccoli Cheddar Bake after a busy week looking for something everyone would love without too much fuss. It's become a reliable favorite in our rotation especially for potlucks or chilly nights at home.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken breast: 2 cups diced or shredded
- Fresh broccoli florets: 3 cups
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons
- All-purpose flour: 2 tablespoons
- Whole milk: 1 cup
- Low-sodium chicken broth: 1/2 cup
- Dijon mustard: 1 teaspoon
- Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Onion powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: 1 1/2 cups divided
- Panko breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): 1/4 teaspoon for a kick
Instructions
- Prep Oven & Dish:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Blanch Broccoli:
- Steam or blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2 3 minutes until just tender and bright green. Drain and set aside.
- Make Roux:
- In a medium saucepan melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute whisking constantly.
- Prepare Sauce:
- Gradually add milk and chicken broth whisking to prevent lumps. Cook for 3 4 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Season Sauce:
- Stir in Dijon mustard garlic powder onion powder salt and black pepper. Remove from heat.
- Add Cheese:
- Add 1 cup cheddar cheese to sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
- Combine:
- In a large bowl combine cooked chicken blanched broccoli and cheese sauce. Mix well.
- Layer in Dish:
- Spread mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Cheese Topping:
- Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bread Crumb Topping:
- In a small bowl toss panko breadcrumbs with olive oil (and red pepper flakes if using) then sprinkle over casserole.
- Bake:
- Bake for 25 30 minutes until bubbling and the top is golden brown.
- Rest & Serve:
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Save Every time I bring this bake to the table my kids are excited and it disappears quickly. It's a dish that brings everyone together even on the busiest nights.
Customize Your Bake
Mix in cooked rice or quinoa for extra heartiness or swap cheddar for a cheese blend. Pair with a light salad or a crisp Chardonnay if you like.
What to Serve With
This bake goes well with a green salad roasted vegetables or even a loaf of crusty bread. For a complete meal add some fresh fruit on the side.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or use the microwave for single servings.
Save You'll love how easy and versatile this casserole is for weeknight dinners or sharing with friends. Enjoy every creamy cheesy bite!
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I prepare the broccoli for the bake?
Steam or blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until tender but still bright green, then drain well before mixing.
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds extra flavor while saving prep time.
- → What thickens the sauce in this dish?
A classic roux made from butter and flour creates the base, which is then combined with milk and broth to form a creamy sauce.
- → How can I make the topping extra crispy?
Toss the panko breadcrumbs with olive oil before sprinkling them on top to achieve a golden, crunchy crust after baking.
- → Is it possible to add other ingredients for variation?
Yes, adding cooked rice or quinoa can make the dish heartier and offer more texture without altering the main flavors.
- → What is a good beverage pairing with this dish?
A crisp Chardonnay or a light, fresh salad complements the creamy richness of the bake nicely.