Best Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe

Cheesy chicken and broccoli casserole bakes tender chicken and broccoli in a creamy cheese sauce with a crispy topping. This high protein, family-friendly chicken dish is a weeknight casserole classic.

Cook 60 min Difficulty EASY 370 kcal
#high protein #family-friendly #weeknight dinner #casserole
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • boneless skinless chicken breast 1.5 lbs
  • broccoli florets 4 cups
  • shredded sharp cheddar cheese 2 cups
  • cooked white rice 2 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • cream of chicken soup 10.5 oz
  • sour cream 0.5 cup
  • unsalted butter 4 tbsp
  • garlic powder 1 tsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
  • salt 0.75 tsp
  • crushed Ritz crackers 1 cup
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 18 g 19%
Protein 31 g 34%
Fat 17 g 47%
Serving size 270g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

  2. 2

    In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter. Add chicken breasts and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until lightly golden—do not overcook as chicken will finish baking.

  3. 3

    Steam or microwave broccoli florets until just tender, about 3–4 minutes; drain well to reduce moisture in the casserole.

  4. 4

    In a large bowl, whisk cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir in cooked rice, broccoli, chicken (cut into bite-sized pieces), and 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese.

  5. 5

    Spread mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining cheese, then sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers. Drizzle melted butter (2 tbsp) over the topping.

  6. 6

    Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes until topping is crisp and casserole is bubbling; let rest 10 minutes before serving to set the cheese sauce.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The star ingredient is the boneless skinless chicken breast, which delivers both protein and a hearty texture to the casserole. The combination of chicken with creamy cheddar cheese and broccoli creates a classic, well-balanced flavor profile.
Q. What makes the casserole creamy and flavorful?
Cream of chicken soup and sour cream blended with shredded sharp cheddar cheese are essential for richness and flavor. These components form the creamy sauce that ties the chicken, broccoli, and rice together, giving the dish its signature comforting taste.
Q. How do I avoid an overly wet or sloppy casserole?
To prevent excess moisture, make sure to drain the steamed broccoli well before mixing it into the casserole. Additionally, steaming—rather than boiling—helps keep the broccoli tender but not soggy. Allowing the finished casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving lets the cheese sauce thicken.
Q. What is the protein-to-carb ratio per serving?
Each serving contains 31g of protein and 18g of carbohydrates. This translates to a protein contribution of 34% and carbs at 19% of total calories, making it a high protein option compared to many casseroles.
Q. How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving of this cheesy chicken and broccoli casserole delivers approximately 370 kcal. This balance includes 17g fat (47% of total calories), 31g protein, and 18g carbs.
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