Broccoli Chicken Casserole is a creamy baked chicken and broccoli dish made with cheddar cheese soup, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar, and a buttery Ritz cracker topping. This easy chicken casserole recipe is a popular family dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, and comforting home-cooked meals. Made with simple ingredients like cooked chicken, broccoli florets, and a rich cheese sauce, it delivers a hearty and filling oven-baked casserole. A classic cheesy chicken casserole that works well for potlucks, make-ahead dinners, and freezer-friendly meals.

Ingredients

3 cups cooked chicken, small diced
12 oz frozen broccoli florets, thawed
10.5 oz can condensed cheddar cheese soup (low sodium recommended)
10.5 oz can condensed cream of chicken soup (low sodium recommended)
¼ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup milk
8 oz shredded cheddar cheese (about 2 cups, divided)
1 ½ cups Ritz crackers, crushed
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
Dried parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 11×7-inch baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, thawed broccoli, cheddar soup, cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, milk, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until fully blended.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
In a separate bag, combine crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Toss until the crumbs are evenly coated.
Spread the buttery cracker topping evenly over the casserole.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until hot, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
Garnish with dried parsley if desired and serve warm.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This broccoli chicken casserole is a creamy, cheesy baked dish that combines tender chicken, broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce topped with a crispy buttery cracker crust. It’s a comforting and family-friendly meal that comes together easily using simple pantry ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, and cozy dinners.

Tips

Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
Drain broccoli well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
For a thicker texture, reduce the milk slightly.
Let the casserole rest a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.

Variations and Substitutions

Swap broccoli for cauliflower or mixed vegetables.
Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version.
Replace Ritz crackers with breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.
Add cooked rice or pasta to make it more filling.
Use mozzarella or Monterey Jack instead of cheddar cheese.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze broccoli chicken casserole?
Yes, it freezes well before or after baking.

Do I need to cook the broccoli first?
No, just thaw it and drain well before using.

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, lightly steam it first for best texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this casserole warm as a complete meal or pair it with rice, mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles. It also goes well with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a balanced dinner.