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 when searching for a simple, satisfying meal for my family. Its rich flavors and familiar ingredients quickly made it a regular in our dinner rotation.
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
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Prep Broccoli:
- Steam or blanch broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until just tender and bright green. Drain and set aside.
- Make Sauce Base:
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly.
- Add Liquids:
- 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 Bake Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, blanched broccoli, and cheese sauce. Mix well.
- Layer & Top:
- Spread mixture evenly in prepared baking dish.
- Add Cheese & Crumb Topping:
- Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese over top. 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 top is golden brown.
- Cool & Serve:
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Save This casserole is always a hit at family gatherings, especially when served hot and bubbling right from the oven. Our youngest loves scooping out the cheesy, veggie-packed center while the adults enjoy the crispy topping.
Required Tools
Gather a 9x13-inch baking dish, a medium saucepan, mixing bowls, a whisk, and a steamer or pot for blanching broccoli.
Allergen Information
This dish contains milk from cheese, milk, and butter, and wheat from flour and panko. If using processed chicken broth or packaged items, check ingredient lists for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 420 calories, 21 g total fat, 21 g carbohydrates, and 36 g protein.
Save Enjoy this creamy casserole alongside a crisp salad or a glass of Chardonnay. The golden topping and cheesy center always make for a comforting meal.
Cooking Questions
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works well and saves preparation time without compromising flavor.
- → How should broccoli be prepared?
Steam or blanch broccoli until just tender and bright green to maintain texture and color.
- → Can I substitute frozen broccoli?
Frozen broccoli can be used if thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
- → What gives the topping its crunch?
The combination of panko breadcrumbs and olive oil creates a crispy, golden crust when baked.
- → Is there a way to add more bulk to this dish?
Adding cooked rice or quinoa mixes well, making the dish heartier and more filling.
- → What seasonings balance the creamy sauce?
Dijon mustard, garlic, onion powders, salt, and black pepper enhance flavor without overpowering the creamy texture.