A cheesy chicken and broccoli bake is one of those comforting dishes that brings warmth, richness, and incredible flavor to the table with minimal effort. It’s creamy, savory, packed with tender chicken pieces and perfectly cooked broccoli, then covered with a golden crust of melted cheese and crunchy breadcrumbs. This kind of oven-baked casserole is ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or potluck gatherings because it delivers a satisfying meal with simple, wholesome ingredients. What makes this dish especially appealing is its balance: the juicy chicken, the fresh snap of broccoli, and the luxurious creaminess of the cheese sauce all come together into a single, hearty pan.
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Ingredients
For the chicken and broccoli layer
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the creamy cheese sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, adds depth)
For the topping
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or a cheese blend
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (Panko preferred for crunch)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- Fresh chives or parsley for garnish
Preparing the broccoli and chicken
Start by preparing the base ingredients that give the dish its structure. If you’re using uncooked chicken, season lightly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then sauté in a bit of olive oil until fully cooked and golden. However, leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken works just as well and saves time.
For the broccoli, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for just 2 minutes—this brief blanching keeps the broccoli vibrant, crisp, and not mushy in the oven. Immediately transfer the broccoli to cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain well and set aside.
Both ingredients should be dry before layering, as excess moisture can thin the creamy sauce.
Making the creamy cheese sauce
The heart of this casserole is the luscious cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously to form a smooth roux. Cook the roux for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste, but do not let it brown.
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. When the mixture begins to thicken, add the heavy cream. Continue cooking until the sauce becomes thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. At this stage, reduce the heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
Season the sauce with paprika, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. The Dijon mustard is optional, but it significantly enhances flavor without making the sauce taste like mustard. The final sauce should be creamy, rich, and velvety—this will bind the casserole together and create that irresistible melted cheese layer.
Assembling the casserole
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or spray.
Spread the broccoli florets evenly on the bottom of the baking dish. Add the cooked chicken chunks over the top, distributing them so every bite contains both chicken and broccoli. Pour the creamy cheese sauce evenly over the entire dish, making sure it seeps into the spaces between the chicken and broccoli. Use a spoon or spatula to gently spread the sauce so everything is coated.
Making the crunchy topping
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the casserole along with an extra layer of shredded cheddar. This combination gives the dish a golden, crunchy finish that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
Baking the cheesy chicken casserole
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes or until the cheese on top becomes bubbly, melted, and lightly browned. The edges should be golden and the topping crisp. If you want an extra-browned top, switch on the broiler for the last 2–3 minutes—but watch closely so it doesn’t burn.
Serving and presentation
Once the casserole is out of the oven, let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the sauce thicken slightly so the portions come out neatly. Garnish with fresh chopped chives or parsley to add color and freshness.
The dish pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, garlic bread, or a simple side salad. It also stands well on its own as a complete meal because it includes both protein and vegetables.
Tips for perfect results
- Use high-quality cheese for the best melt and flavor.
- Do not overcook the broccoli before baking; it should remain slightly firm.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, whisk in a little milk.
- If you prefer a lower-fat version, replace heavy cream with evaporated milk.
- Rotisserie chicken saves time and enhances flavor.
Variations
One of the best things about this bake is how easily it adapts to different tastes. You can swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, Gouda, or a mix of cheeses depending on your preference. For an Italian twist, add shredded Parmesan and fresh basil. To make it spicy, mix in jalapeños or red pepper flakes. If you want a low-carb version, replace the flour with almond flour or omit it entirely and thicken the sauce with cream cheese instead.
Storage and reheating
This cheesy chicken and broccoli bake stores very well. Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 12–15 minutes to restore crispness. It can also be frozen for up to three months. When freezing, assemble the casserole without baking it, wrap tightly, and store. Bake directly from frozen by adding extra time.
Final thoughts
This cheesy chicken and broccoli bake is a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that combines creamy textures, savory flavors, and satisfying richness. It is easy to prepare, extremely flexible, and perfect for busy cooks who want a delicious homemade dish without complicated steps. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a guest gathering, or your food blog audience, this recipe is a guaranteed favorite that delivers flavor, warmth, and a beautiful golden finish every time.