Chicken Broccoli Casserole (Printable Version)

Creamy, comforting baked dish with tender chicken, fresh broccoli florets, and melted cheddar cheese under golden buttered breadcrumbs.

# Ingredient List:

→ Proteins

01 - 3 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded

→ Vegetables

02 - 4 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen and thawed
03 - 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped

→ Dairy

04 - 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
05 - 1 cup sour cream
06 - 1/2 cup milk

→ Pantry Staples

07 - 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
08 - 1 cup cooked white rice, optional

→ Topping

09 - 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
10 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

→ Seasonings

11 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
12 - 1/2 tsp salt
13 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
14 - 1/4 tsp paprika

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
02 - Steam or blanch broccoli florets for 2–3 minutes until tender-crisp and bright green. Drain thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
03 - In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, broccoli, onion, 1 cup cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, cooked rice (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly distributed.
04 - Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
05 - In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and paprika. Mix until crumbs are evenly coated.
06 - Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese over the casserole, then evenly distribute the buttered breadcrumb mixture on top.
07 - Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes until bubbly around edges and topping is golden brown.
08 - Let casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set for easier scooping.

# Tips from hearthlykitchen:

01 -
  • It freezes beautifully so you can assemble it ahead for those nights when cooking feels impossible
  • The crispy buttered topping creates this incredible contrast with the creamy filling underneath
  • My kids actually asked for seconds, which still feels like a personal victory
02 -
  • Watery broccoli will make the whole casserole soggy so take the time to drain it really well after steaming
  • The topping burns easily so check at 25 minutes and tent with foil if needed
  • It needs those 5 minutes of resting time or it will be too loose when you serve it
03 -
  • Crisp up any leftover portions under the broiler for 2-3 minutes to restore that crunch
  • Add a pinch of cayenne to the crumb topping if your family likes a little heat

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