Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Bake
This Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Bake is a delightful comfort food that's sure to please the entire family, even those who usual shy away from broccoli! Combining tender, cooked chicken with vibrant, thawed broccoli, and enveloping it all in a rich, creamy mixture of soup and mayo, this dish is topped off with a generous layer of melted cheddar cheese. To add a delightful crunch, we finish it with crispy fried onions or breadcrumbs. Easy to prepare and bake, this one-dish meal is perfect for busy weeknights, making it an ideal option for parents seeking to sneak some veggies into their children's meals without sacrificing flavor. Get ready to impress with this creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying casserole that will have everyone asking for seconds!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
cooked boneless skinless chicken breast
1 lb (diced)
frozen broccoli
12 ounces (thawed)
condensed cream of celery soup
8 ounces (or cream of chicken soup)
mayonnaise
1 cup (no preparation needed)
shredded cheddar cheese
8-12 ounces (no preparation needed)
canned fried onions
to taste (no preparation needed)
breadcrumbs
to taste (optional for topping)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a 2-quart casserole dish, spread the thawed broccoli evenly across the bottom.
3
Layer the diced cooked chicken on top of the broccoli.
4
In a small mixing bowl, combine the condensed soup and mayonnaise, stirring until well blended.
5
Spread the creamy soup mixture evenly over the chicken layer.
6
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top of the soup mixture.
7
Finish by adding a layer of fried onions or breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
8
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the dish is heated through.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Bake?
It is a comforting one-dish casserole made with cooked chicken, broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce, topped with a crunchy layer.
Can I use raw chicken for this recipe?
No, the recipe specifically requires 1 lb of cooked boneless skinless chicken breast, diced before assembly.
Do I need to cook the broccoli before adding it?
The recipe uses 12 ounces of frozen broccoli that simply needs to be thawed before being layered in the dish.
What size baking dish should I use?
A 2-quart casserole dish is the recommended size for this recipe.
What is the oven temperature for this bake?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
How long does the casserole need to bake?
The dish should bake for approximately 30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and it is heated through.
What can I substitute for cream of celery soup?
You can easily substitute condensed cream of chicken soup if you prefer or do not have cream of celery.
How do I prepare the sauce?
In a small mixing bowl, stir together the condensed soup and one cup of mayonnaise until well blended.
What toppings provide the crunch?
You can use either canned fried onions or breadcrumbs as a crunchy topping for this casserole.
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli, but it is recommended to blanch or steam it slightly first to ensure it is tender after 30 minutes of baking.
What kind of cheese is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 8-12 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese for the best flavor and melt.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, it is described as a family-friendly meal that is ideal for sneaking vegetables into children's diets.
How do I assemble the layers?
Layer thawed broccoli first, then diced chicken, then the soup mixture, followed by cheese and finally the crunchy topping.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for mayonnaise if you want a tangier flavor or a slightly different nutritional profile.
How many ingredients are needed?
The recipe uses 7 main ingredients: chicken, broccoli, condensed soup, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, fried onions, and breadcrumbs.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely, using a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great way to save time on the 1 lb of cooked chicken required.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can this casserole be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze it. For best results, freeze before baking and add the crunchy topping just before you put it in the oven.
How do I reheat the chicken bake?
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in the oven at 350 degrees until warmed through.
Is this a good meal for busy weeknights?
Yes, it is designed for busy weeknights as it is a quick-to-prepare one-dish meal.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, vegetables like cauliflower or carrots would work well, though they should be pre-cooked or chopped small.
Do I need to cover the dish with foil while baking?
The instructions do not specify covering the dish, which allows the cheese and topping to become golden and crispy.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Yes, as long as the chicken is cooked and diced, boneless skinless chicken thighs are a delicious alternative.
What if my broccoli is still watery?
Make sure to drain the thawed broccoli well before adding it to the dish to prevent the casserole from becoming too liquid.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free condensed soup and ensure your fried onions or breadcrumbs are gluten-free.
How do I know when the bake is done?
The bake is ready when the cheese is fully melted and bubbly, and the internal temperature is hot.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and use a 9x13 inch baking pan, though you may need to increase the baking time slightly.
What can I serve this with?
While it is a complete meal on its own, it pairs well with a side of white rice, quinoa, or a light green salad.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican cheese blend would also work well in place of cheddar.
Why is mayonnaise used in the sauce?
The mayonnaise helps create a thick, creamy consistency and adds richness to the condensed soup base.