Name: Broccoli Cheddar Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 5 pieces boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), trimmed; 1 bag frozen broccoli florets, cooked per package directions; 1 can cream of chicken soup (about 10.5 ounces); 1/2 cup milk; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup French fried onions; 1 teaspoon seasoned salt (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon regular table salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Jump to Recipe

Are you searching for a creamy, cheesy, and family-friendly dinner that everyone will be excited about? Broccoli Cheddar Chicken could be just what you need to transform an ordinary weeknight into something special! This dish is loaded with juicy chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and a cheesy sauce that’s simply irresistible. I first stumbled upon a version of this recipe during a busy week, and it instantly became a staple in our home—my kids even beg for seconds! The best part? It comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for those crazy weeknights when you still want something homemade. If you enjoyed my Chicken Alfredo Bake, you’ll love Broccoli Cheddar Chicken for its similar creamy comfort vibes, but with a pop of veggie goodness. Trust me, this dish is a total crowd-pleaser—let’s get cooking!

What is Broccoli Cheddar Chicken?

Have you ever wondered why it’s called Broccoli Cheddar Chicken? The name says it all, doesn’t it? Tender chicken meets crisp broccoli, all bubbled up in a cheddar cheese blanket—what could go wrong? I like to joke that this dish is the ultimate proof of the saying, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” but in our house, it’s everyone’s heart! Some say it was invented by a rushed mom with picky eaters, while others claim it’s the result of a cheesy kitchen experiment. Either way, one bite and you’ll know why it’s got such a fan club. Give it a try, and see for yourself why families everywhere rave about it!

Why You’ll Love This

Broccoli Cheddar Chicken shines because of its ultra-creamy cheddar sauce, hint of cozy spices, and a crunchy topping that takes it over the top. Making this dish at home is a real wallet-saver—no need to hit up your favorite restaurant (and wait in line!) when you can whip up something that tastes even better in your own kitchen. The rich flavors and gooey cheese will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, the French fried onions on top add an irresistible crunch you just don’t want to skip! If you’re a fan of my popular Broccoli Cheddar Soup, this recipe brings those comforting flavors straight to your dinner table in an easy casserole-style meal. Ready to try something new? Grab your baking dish and let’s get started!

How to Make

Quick Overview

Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is the kind of meal you’ll turn to again and again. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and has a rich, creamy texture thanks to the melted cheddar and soup base. Prep is quick—just steam the broccoli, mix up the sauce, and bake—so you can have dinner on the table in about 45 minutes. Perfect for busy nights or anytime you crave delicious, homemade comfort food.

Ingredients

5 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), trimmed
1 bag frozen broccoli florets, cooked per package directions
1 can cream of chicken soup (about 10.5 ounces)
1/2 cup milk
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup French fried onions
1 teaspoon seasoned salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon regular table salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika

Step-by-Step

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Arrange the trimmed chicken thighs (or breasts) evenly in the baking dish. Sprinkle both sides with seasoned salt, regular salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika.
Spread the cooked broccoli over the chicken, breaking up any large florets for even distribution.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup and milk until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken and broccoli.
Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top, covering the casserole completely.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and sprinkle the French fried onions on top. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

What to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Chicken With

Broccoli Cheddar Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes! For a filling meal, serve it over a warm bed of fluffy white rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or egg noodles. It’s also delicious alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, roasted carrots, or honey-glazed baby carrots for added color and nutrients. For drinks, consider a chilled glass of white wine or simply a refreshing lemonade. If you want to round out your dinner, a warm roll or slice of Texas toast makes the perfect vehicle for scooping up all that cheesy goodness.

Top Tips for Perfecting

For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a handful of crispy cooked bacon bits to the topping.
Don’t overcook the broccoli—steam until just tender for the best texture in your bake.
If you prefer a lower-fat version, use low-fat cheese and reduced-sodium soup.
Switch up the protein by using boneless turkey or pork chops instead of chicken.
Want to go vegetarian? Swap the chicken for cooked pasta or cauliflower, and use cream of mushroom soup instead.
Avoid sogginess by letting the casserole rest before serving so the sauce thickens.

Storing and Reheating Tips

For leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the portion with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes, or microwave individual servings on medium power until heated through. If you’d like to freeze Broccoli Cheddar Chicken, assemble the dish (without the French fried onions on top), wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, add the French fried onions, and bake as directed.

FAQs

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Just steam or blanch your fresh broccoli florets until slightly tender before adding them to the casserole.

Is there a substitute for cream of chicken soup?
Yes, you can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor twist.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Can I prepare Broccoli Cheddar Chicken in advance?
Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day ahead (minus the fried onions), refrigerate, and bake when ready. Add the onions just before the final bake for best crunch.

What if I don’t have French fried onions?
Crushed butter crackers or panko breadcrumbs tossed with melted butter make a tasty, crunchy alternative.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is destined to become your new favorite comfort food—a cheesy, easy, and family-approved meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With simple prep, tons of creamy flavor, and plenty of ways to customize, this recipe is a must-try for home cooks of all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution or a hearty main to impress loved ones, this dish checks every box. Don’t forget to check out my other reader-favorite recipes and let me know how your Broccoli Cheddar Chicken turned out in the comments. Happy cooking!