Inspired by the comforting flavors of a dish you might find at Cracker Barrel, this homemade Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole combines tender, juicy chicken with a creamy, cheesy broccoli sauce. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!
Ingredients:
- 5 boneless skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts, if preferred)
- 1 bag frozen broccoli (about 12-16 oz, cooked according to package directions)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk gives the creamiest texture, but any milk works)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt)
- 1 cup French fried onions (adds a crunchy topping)
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt (for flavor depth)
- 1/2 teaspoon regular table salt (adjust as needed)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (adds a savory depth)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (for color and a subtle smokiness)
Directions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray, olive oil, or butter to prevent sticking.
- Season the chicken thighs (or breasts) on both sides with seasoned salt, black pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika. This mix gives the chicken a flavorful base that will complement the creamy broccoli mixture.
- Tip: For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the seasoning for 30 minutes before baking or sear it in a pan for a few minutes on each side before placing it in the casserole dish.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken in the greased casserole dish. The chicken can be whole or cut into smaller pieces if you prefer.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli Mixture
- Cook the broccoli according to the package directions, usually in the microwave or on the stovetop. Drain any excess water and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked broccoli, cream of chicken soup, and milk. Stir everything together until it’s fully mixed. The soup and milk create a creamy base for the broccoli to shine through.
- Add in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of French fried onions, mixing everything well. The cheese will add richness and flavor to the broccoli sauce, while the French fried onions contribute crunch and a bit of sweetness to balance the dish.
- Tip: If you want extra creaminess, you can add a small block of cream cheese, softened, to the mixture. It will thicken the sauce and give it a velvety texture.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the broccoli mixture evenly over the seasoned chicken in the casserole dish, spreading it into a smooth, even layer. The sauce should coat the chicken, creating a creamy base that binds all the flavors together.
- Top the casserole with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of French fried onions. This will create a crispy, cheesy topping as it bakes in the oven. The cheese will melt and bubble, and the onions will toast to a golden, crispy finish.
Step 4: Bake and Serve
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake at 350°F for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- After baking, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken slightly, making it easier to slice and serve.
- Tip: If the top gets too brown before the chicken is done, cover the casserole with aluminum foil for the remaining cooking time.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Dishes: Serve this casserole with simple sides like roasted potatoes, a light side salad, or garlic bread to round out the meal. It also pairs wonderfully with rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Vegetable Additions: If you want to make it even more veggie-packed, consider adding mushrooms, cauliflower, or even spinach to the broccoli mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.
Make-Ahead & Freezer Tips:
- Make-Ahead: This casserole is perfect for preparing in advance. Assemble the entire dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
- Freezer-Friendly: This casserole can also be frozen before baking. After assembling, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as usual. If baking from frozen, increase the time by 10-15 minutes.
Notes & Tips:
- Chicken Choice: Chicken thighs are great because they stay juicy and tender, but chicken breasts can also be used for a leaner option. If using breasts, consider cutting them into smaller pieces to help them cook evenly and absorb more of the flavors from the sauce.
- Broccoli Texture: Make sure to drain the broccoli thoroughly after cooking to prevent excess water from making the casserole too watery. If you prefer more texture in your broccoli, you can slightly undercook it before mixing.
- Season to Taste: Taste the broccoli mixture before spreading it on the chicken and adjust the seasonings if needed. Sometimes the cream of chicken soup can be a bit salty, so be sure to balance it out with pepper and garlic powder.
This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole is a warm, satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners, especially on those chilly evenings. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy topping, it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table every time!