Name: Chicken Broccoli Stuffing Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 package (6 oz) stuffing mix; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup butter, melted

If you’re craving an easy dinner recipe that’s creamy, cheesy, and satisfying, this Chicken Broccoli Stuffing Casserole delivers everything you love about classic family comfort food in one hearty dish. It combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, savory stuffing, and a creamy sauce—all baked to golden perfection. The textures balance beautifully: juicy chicken and crisp-tender broccoli beneath a buttery, crunchy stuffing topping that’s hard to resist.

This cozy, crowd-pleasing casserole is ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or Sunday dinners. With simple pantry ingredients and just 15 minutes of prep, it’s a budget-friendly meal that tastes like a hug in a baking dish. Whether you’re new to cooking or looking for healthy weeknight dinner options that don’t compromise on flavor, this easy recipe will quickly become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick prep, minimal cleanup – Ready for the oven in under 20 minutes.
Budget-friendly meal – Uses affordable, everyday ingredients found in any pantry.
Family-approved comfort food – Cheesy, creamy, and perfectly seasoned.
Great for meal prep recipes – Make ahead, refrigerate, and bake later for effortless dinners.
Balanced and hearty – Includes protein, vegetables, and grains all in one dish.
Beginner-friendly cooking – No complicated steps—just mix, layer, and bake.

Ingredient Breakdown

Every ingredient in this easy family recipe plays an important role in flavor and texture.

Cooked Chicken (2 cups, shredded) – Adds lean protein and savory flavor. Rotisserie chicken works great for quick weeknight recipes, saving both time and effort.
Broccoli Florets (2 cups, steamed) – Provides freshness and nutrients, making this casserole a more healthy dinner recipe. Steam just until bright green for the best texture.
Cream of Chicken Soup (10.5 oz can) – The creamy base that binds everything together, creating a rich sauce that keeps the casserole moist.
Sour Cream (½ cup) – Adds tanginess and extra creaminess for that homemade comfort food feel.
Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded) – Melts beautifully for a gooey, cheesy layer that ties everything together. Choose sharp cheddar for the best flavor payoff.
Garlic Powder (1 tsp) & Onion Powder (1 tsp) – Simple pantry seasonings that boost depth without overpowering.
Salt (½ tsp) & Black Pepper (¼ tsp) – Basic seasonings that balance and highlight the creamy components.
Stuffing Mix (6 oz package) – The star topping that brings texture and flavor. Its buttery herb notes create the ultimate comfort food dinner finish.
Chicken Broth (½ cup) – Moistens the stuffing and infuses savory flavor.
Butter (¼ cup, melted) – Adds richness and helps the stuffing brown to a crispy golden top.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Healthy cooking tips: Use low-sodium soup and broth, or swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for added protein and less fat.
Even layering: Spread the chicken-broccoli mixture evenly so every bite has the perfect ratio of creamy filling and crispy topping.
Best kitchen trick for home cooks: Toast the stuffing mix briefly in a skillet before adding broth and butter for a deeper flavor.
Prevent sogginess: Avoid over-moistening the stuffing—add just enough broth to make it fluffy, not mushy.
Make it your own: Add a sprinkle of Parmesan or paprika on top for a richer, more colorful crust.

These easy meal prep hacks ensure a perfect casserole every time, even on your busiest nights.

Ingredient Swaps or Variations

This casserole adapts beautifully to your preferences or dietary needs. Try these delicious healthy recipe alternatives and budget-friendly substitutions:

Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free stuffing mix or substitute cooked rice or quinoa for the topping.
Low-Carb Version: Replace stuffing with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, cauliflower rice, and crushed pork rinds for that same satisfying crunch.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and replace with extra broccoli, chickpeas, or tofu cubes for plant-based protein.
Cream of Mushroom Twist: Swap cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a different flavor profile.
Add Veggies: Toss in chopped carrots, peas, or bell peppers to boost color and nutrition.

These swaps make it easy to tailor your healthy weeknight dinner without sacrificing flavor or comfort.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Chicken Broccoli Stuffing Casserole hot and bubbling straight from the oven. Here are some easy pairing ideas for a balanced meal:

Best side dishes: Pair with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete dinner.
Easy party food ideas: Portion into small ramekins for individual servings at potlucks or gatherings.
Healthy meal pairings: Serve alongside steamed asparagus, sautéed spinach, or a light soup for a nutritious combo.
Family dinner upgrade: Top with a sprinkle of crispy fried onions or bacon bits for added crunch and flavor.

With its creamy center and crunchy topping, this dish stands beautifully on its own or as part of a full meal spread.

Make Ahead + Storage Tips

This easy meal prep recipe is perfect for planning ahead:

Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes and bake as directed.
Freezing Instructions: To freeze, prepare the casserole (without baking), wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Storing Leftovers: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
Reheating Tips: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot throughout, or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes. Add a splash of broth before reheating to maintain moisture.
Leftover recipe hacks: Use leftover casserole as filling for wraps or stuffed peppers for a creative next-day lunch.

These best freezer meal and storage strategies make this casserole an ideal meal prep recipe for busy families.

Cultural or Historical Notes

This dish draws inspiration from classic American comfort food casseroles, popularized in mid-20th-century home kitchens. It’s the kind of meal that brings nostalgia—combining pantry staples, minimal prep, and hearty satisfaction. Casseroles like this became staples because they were budget-friendly recipes that stretched ingredients while feeding families generously. Today, they remain a go-to for home cooks who want simple, delicious, traditional family meals that never go out of style.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble up to a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining.

Can I freeze Chicken Broccoli Stuffing Casserole?
Absolutely. Freeze unbaked for up to 2 months or freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking or reheating.

How can I make this recipe healthier?
Use light sour cream or Greek yogurt, low-fat cheese, and reduced-sodium soup and broth. Add extra broccoli or replace half the stuffing with cauliflower rice.

Can I use other meats?
Yes! Try cooked turkey, ham, or even rotisserie chicken for a quick variation.

How do I prevent the stuffing from getting soggy?
Add broth gradually until just moistened. Overly wet stuffing can steam instead of crisping. Bake uncovered for a golden top.

Sarah namedy