Chicken Broccoli Casserole

by

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Chicken Broccoli Casserole recipe. This hearty and satisfying dish is perfect for family dinners, combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and egg noodles in a creamy, flavorful sauce. Topped with melted Colby jack cheese, it’s a mouthwatering way to enjoy a classic combination of flavors while getting your veggies in!

Ingredients:

Prepare your ingredients for this delectable casserole:

  • 4 tablespoons salted butter
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons black pepper
  • 4 teaspoons chicken bouillon
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 cups half ’n’ half
  • 4 tablespoons cornstarch, dissolved in 4 tablespoons of water
  • 24 ounces fresh broccoli florets, trimmed to bite-size pieces if necessary
  • 16 ounces wide egg noodles, cooked and drained
  • 4 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
  • 1 cup Colby jack cheese, grated

Directions:

  1. Preheat and Prepare:
    Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13 casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray and set it aside for later use.
  2. Prepare the Sauce:
    In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chicken bouillon to the melted butter, and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Create the Sauce Base:
    Whisk in the water and half ’n’ half. Dissolve the cornstarch in water to make a slurry, then whisk this slurry into the filling mixture in the pot. Cook and whisk over medium heat until the mixture comes to a simmer and starts to thicken.
  4. Add Broccoli:
    Stir in the fresh broccoli florets and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until slightly tender.
  5. Layer the Casserole:
    Spread the cooked egg noodles and diced chicken evenly in the prepared casserole dish. Pour the broccoli and sauce mixture over the top, stirring to combine everything evenly.
  6. Bake and Top with Cheese:
    Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes or until the broccoli is fork-tender. Remove from the oven, stir the casserole to redistribute the sauce, and sprinkle the grated Colby jack cheese over the top.
  7. Final Touch:
    Loosely cover the casserole with foil and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt. For a golden-brown cheese topping, return the casserole, uncovered, to the oven for 5 to 10 minutes instead of setting it for 5 minutes.

Nutritional Information

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Servings: 12

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

  1. Garnish Creatively:
    • Before serving, garnish the casserole with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color and added flavor.
  2. Pair with a Side Salad:
    • Serve the Chicken Broccoli Casserole alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the casserole.
  3. Add a Crunchy Element:
    • For extra texture, top individual servings with toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before serving. This adds a delightful crunch to each bite.
  4. Serve with Garlic Bread:
    • Accompany the casserole with warm garlic bread or dinner rolls for a comforting and satisfying meal.
  5. Family-Style Presentation:
    • Bring the casserole dish straight to the table and let everyone serve themselves family-style for a cozy and communal dining experience.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigeration:
    • Store any leftover Chicken Broccoli Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it cools completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation and maintain freshness.
  2. Freezing:
    • You can freeze the casserole for longer storage. Portion it into individual servings or freeze the entire casserole in a freezer-safe container. Properly sealed, it can last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
  3. Reheating:
    • When reheating from the refrigerator, place individual servings in the microwave or oven until heated through. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent the dish from drying out during reheating.
  4. Avoid Overcooking:
    • When reheating, be cautious not to overcook the casserole as it can become dry. Cover with foil to retain moisture and heat evenly.
  5. Refresh with Sauce:
    • If the casserole appears dry after reheating, drizzle a little extra chicken broth or cream sauce over the top before serving to add moisture and flavor.
  6. Batch Cooking:
    • Consider making a double batch of Chicken Broccoli Casserole and freezing individual portions for quick and convenient meals during busy weekdays.

Variations:

  1. Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Casserole:
    • Add extra cheese to the casserole by mixing shredded cheddar cheese into the sauce or sprinkling it on top before baking. This creates a gooey, cheesy crust that enhances the richness of the dish.
  2. Creamy Alfredo Chicken Broccoli Casserole:
    • Substitute the sauce with Alfredo sauce for a creamy twist. Combine cooked chicken, broccoli, and cooked pasta with Alfredo sauce, then top with Parmesan cheese before baking for a decadent variation.
  3. Mushroom Chicken Broccoli Casserole:
    • Add sliced mushrooms to the casserole for an earthy flavor and extra texture. Sauté the mushrooms with the onions and garlic before adding them to the sauce mixture.
  4. Buffalo Chicken Broccoli Casserole:
    • Give the casserole a spicy kick by tossing the cooked chicken in buffalo sauce before layering it in the casserole dish. Top with crumbled blue cheese and chopped celery for a buffalo chicken-inspired twist.
  5. Bacon Ranch Chicken Broccoli Casserole:
    • Incorporate crispy bacon pieces and ranch seasoning mix into the casserole for a savory flavor boost. Garnish with chopped green onions and additional shredded cheese before serving.
  6. Mexican Chicken Broccoli Casserole:
    • Add a Southwestern flair by mixing cooked chicken, broccoli, and black beans with salsa and taco seasoning. Top with shredded Mexican cheese blend and crushed tortilla chips for a Tex-Mex twist.
  7. Italian Chicken Broccoli Casserole:
    • Create an Italian-inspired version by adding cooked chicken, broccoli, and cooked pasta to marinara sauce. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and chopped fresh basil before baking for a taste of Italy.
  8. Pesto Chicken Broccoli Casserole:
    • Mix cooked chicken, broccoli, and cooked pasta with pesto sauce for a vibrant and flavorful variation. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts before serving for added texture and nuttiness.
  9. Greek Chicken Broccoli Casserole:
    • Combine cooked chicken, broccoli, and cooked rice with Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano. Top with crumbled feta cheese and sliced Kalamata olives before baking for a Mediterranean twist.
  10. Vegan Chicken Broccoli Casserole:
    • Replace chicken with plant-based chicken strips or tofu for a vegan-friendly version. Use vegetable broth, dairy-free half and half, and vegan cheese alternatives to make the sauce creamy and flavorful. Add extra veggies like bell peppers or peas for added color and nutrients.

FAQs:

  1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
    • Yes, you can use frozen broccoli in this recipe. Thaw the broccoli before adding it to the casserole, and pat it dry to remove excess moisture.
  2. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
    • Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option for adding cooked chicken to the casserole. Simply shred the chicken and use it as directed in the recipe.
  3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
    • Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Cover the dish tightly with foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
  4. Can I use a different type of pasta?
    • Yes, you can use a different type of pasta, such as penne, rigatoni, or farfalle, instead of egg noodles. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions before adding it to the casserole.
  5. How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
    • The casserole is done baking when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown. You can also insert a knife into the center of the casserole, and if it comes out clean, the casserole is ready.
  6. Can I freeze leftovers?
    • Yes, you can freeze leftover Chicken Broccoli Casserole for future meals. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer individual portions or the entire dish to airtight containers or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Chicken Broccoli Casserole is a versatile and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and nutritious broccoli, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this casserole delivers on flavor and satisfaction every time. So gather your ingredients, whip up a batch, and enjoy the warmth and goodness of Chicken Broccoli Casserole!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Chicken Broccoli Casserole

  • Author: Lusine Svetlana

Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Chicken Broccoli Casserole recipe. This hearty and satisfying dish is perfect for family dinners, combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and egg noodles in a creamy, flavorful sauce. Topped with melted Colby jack cheese, it’s a mouthwatering way to enjoy a classic combination of flavors while getting your veggies in!

Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons salted butter
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons black pepper
  • 4 teaspoons chicken bouillon
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 cups half ’n’ half
  • 4 tablespoons cornstarch, dissolved in 4 tablespoons of water
  • 24 ounces fresh broccoli florets, trimmed to bite-size pieces if necessary
  • 16 ounces wide egg noodles, cooked and drained
  • 4 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
  • 1 cup Colby jack cheese, grated

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare:
    Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13 casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray and set it aside for later use.
  2. Prepare the Sauce:
    In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chicken bouillon to the melted butter, and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Create the Sauce Base:
    Whisk in the water and half ’n’ half. Dissolve the cornstarch in water to make a slurry, then whisk this slurry into the filling mixture in the pot. Cook and whisk over medium heat until the mixture comes to a simmer and starts to thicken.
  4. Add Broccoli:
    Stir in the fresh broccoli florets and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until slightly tender.
  5. Layer the Casserole:
    Spread the cooked egg noodles and diced chicken evenly in the prepared casserole dish. Pour the broccoli and sauce mixture over the top, stirring to combine everything evenly.
  6. Bake and Top with Cheese:
    Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes or until the broccoli is fork-tender. Remove from the oven, stir the casserole to redistribute the sauce, and sprinkle the grated Colby jack cheese over the top.
  7. Final Touch:
    Loosely cover the casserole with foil and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt. For a golden-brown cheese topping, return the casserole, uncovered, to the oven for 5 to 10 minutes instead of setting it for 5 minutes.

 

Notes

Serving Tips:

      1. Garnish Creatively:
        • Before serving, garnish the casserole with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color and added flavor.
      2. Pair with a Side Salad:
        • Serve the Chicken Broccoli Casserole alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the casserole.
      3. Add a Crunchy Element:
        • For extra texture, top individual servings with toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before serving. This adds a delightful crunch to each bite.
      4. Serve with Garlic Bread:
        • Accompany the casserole with warm garlic bread or dinner rolls for a comforting and satisfying meal.
      5. Family-Style Presentation:
        • Bring the casserole dish straight to the table and let everyone serve themselves family-style for a cozy and communal dining experience.

Storage Tips:

    1. Refrigeration:
      • Store any leftover Chicken Broccoli Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it cools completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation and maintain freshness.
    2. Freezing:
      • You can freeze the casserole for longer storage. Portion it into individual servings or freeze the entire casserole in a freezer-safe container. Properly sealed, it can last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
    3. Reheating:
      • When reheating from the refrigerator, place individual servings in the microwave or oven until heated through. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent the dish from drying out during reheating.
    4. Avoid Overcooking:
      • When reheating, be cautious not to overcook the casserole as it can become dry. Cover with foil to retain moisture and heat evenly.
    5. Refresh with Sauce:
      • If the casserole appears dry after reheating, drizzle a little extra chicken broth or cream sauce over the top before serving to add moisture and flavor.
    6. Batch Cooking:
      • Consider making a double batch of Chicken Broccoli Casserole and freezing individual portions for quick and convenient meals during busy weekdays.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!