Description
This Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bake is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, nutrient-rich broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. Topped with crispy breadcrumbs for the perfect crunch, this easy, one-dish meal is ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, divided
- 16 ounces frozen broccoli florets, thawed
- 2 (10.5-ounce) cans cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Chicken – Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken, season with salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and cook for about 5 minutes until lightly browned. Remove from heat.
- Prepare the Creamy Mixture – In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, cheddar cheese, milk, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and the remaining ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- Assemble the Casserole – Spread the thawed broccoli evenly in the greased baking dish. Layer the cooked chicken on top, then pour the creamy mixture over everything, spreading it evenly.
- Make the Crispy Topping – In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Bake Until Golden – Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Serve & Enjoy – Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with rice, a side salad, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- For extra crunch, add a handful of crushed crackers to the breadcrumb topping.
- Swap out mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier twist.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months, then bake when ready.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American