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 I needed a cozy dish for a chilly Sunday with the family. The creamy sauce and savory toppings quickly made it a household favorite.
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: 1 1/2 cups shredded (divided)
- Panko breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): 1/4 teaspoon for a kick
Instructions
- Prep Oven & Dish:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Blanch Broccoli:
- Steam or blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until just tender and bright green. Drain and set aside.
- Make Roux:
- In a medium saucepan melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute whisking constantly.
- Add Liquids & Thicken:
- Gradually add the milk and chicken broth whisking to prevent lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Season the Sauce:
- Stir in Dijon mustard garlic powder onion powder salt and black pepper. Remove from heat.
- Add Cheese:
- Add 1 cup of cheddar cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large bowl combine the cooked chicken blanched broccoli and cheese sauce. Mix well.
- Assemble Casserole:
- Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Add Toppings:
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese over the top.
- Top with Breadcrumbs:
- In a small bowl toss panko breadcrumbs with olive oil (and red pepper flakes if using) then sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake:
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbling and the top is golden brown.
- Cool & Serve:
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Save My kids always ask for seconds when I make this and it disappears fast at family gatherings. Even picky eaters love the creamy sauce and crisp cheesy topping.
Make It a Meal
Add cooked rice or quinoa to the casserole mixture for a heartier all-in-one dish option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this bake with a light green salad a loaf of crusty bread or a glass of crisp Chardonnay for the perfect dinner combination.
Swaps & Tips
You can swap panko for regular breadcrumbs use a blend of cheeses or adjust the spice to your liking by adding more red pepper flakes.
Save Enjoy this comforting bake fresh from the oven! It tastes even better as leftovers the next day.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, thaw and drain frozen broccoli before using to maintain the right texture and avoid excess moisture.
- → How can I make this dish spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb topping or mix them into the sauce for a mild kick.
- → What can I substitute for chicken broth?
Vegetable broth or water mixed with a pinch of salt can be used as alternatives to chicken broth.
- → Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate before baking. Increase baking time slightly if going straight from cold.
- → What sides pair well with this casserole?
Light salads or a crisp Chardonnay complement the creamy, cheesy flavors wonderfully.