Save to Pinterest A comforting, creamy casserole featuring tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a golden cheddar cheese topping—perfect for a family dinner or potluck.
This dish brings back memories of cozy family dinners where everyone dug in happily.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast: diced or shredded
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets: fresh and bright green
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: for sauce base
- 2 tablespoons all purpose flour: to thicken sauce
- 1 cup whole milk: creamy base
- 1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth: adds flavor
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: for tang
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: to taste
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese: shredded and divided
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs: for topping
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: to mix with breadcrumbs
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: optional for a kick
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Set oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish
- Prepare broccoli:
- Steam or blanch broccoli florets for 2 3 minutes until tender and bright green. Drain and set aside
- Make sauce:
- Melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook 1 minute whisking constantly
- Add liquids:
- Gradually add milk and chicken broth whisking to prevent lumps. Cook 3 4 minutes until sauce thickens
- Season:
- Stir in Dijon mustard garlic powder onion powder salt and black pepper Remove from heat
- Add cheese:
- Stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese until melted and smooth
- Combine ingredients:
- In a large bowl mix cooked chicken blanched broccoli and cheese sauce well
- Assemble casserole:
- Spread mixture evenly in prepared baking dish
- Add toppings:
- Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese on top Toss panko breadcrumbs with olive oil (and red pepper flakes if using) sprinkle over casserole
- Bake:
- Bake 25 30 minutes until bubbling and top is golden brown
- Cool:
- Let cool 5 minutes before serving
Save to Pinterest Our family loves sharing this bake on busy weeknights, making mealtime warm and simple.
Notes
Add cooked rice or quinoa to make it a heartier one dish meal. Pair with a crisp Chardonnay or a light salad for a perfect complement.
Required Tools
9x13 inch baking dish Medium saucepan Mixing bowls Whisk Steamer or pot for blanching broccoli
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (cheese milk butter) Wheat (flour panko). Check processed ingredients for hidden allergens.
Save to Pinterest This casserole is an effortless crowd pleaser that’s perfect any night of the week.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I keep broccoli tender yet crisp?
Steam or blanch the broccoli for 2-3 minutes until bright green and just tender. Avoid overcooking to retain texture and nutrients.
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooked chicken breast?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works well and saves prep time while adding flavor and moisture to the dish.
- → What is the best way to achieve a crispy breadcrumb topping?
Toss panko breadcrumbs with olive oil before sprinkling on top. This ensures an even, golden-brown crust during baking.
- → Is it possible to make this dish spicier?
Adding crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture gives a gentle kick without overpowering the flavors.
- → What are good side options to serve alongside this bake?
Pair with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a fresh green salad to balance the creamy richness.