Chicken Broccoli Stuffing Casserole Recipe

Few meals capture the heart of home cooking quite like a casserole. Warm, filling, and made to bring people together, casseroles have been staples on dinner tables for generations. Among the many variations out there, Chicken Broccoli Stuffing Casserole stands out as a beloved classic—a dish that combines rich, savory flavors with creamy textures and a nostalgic sense of comfort.

At its core, this casserole is a beautiful medley of tender chicken, fresh (or frozen) broccoli, a creamy sauce, and a golden, buttery stuffing topping. It’s a one-dish wonder that manages to be both simple and satisfying, balancing protein, vegetables, and starch in every forkful. Whether it’s a weeknight family dinner, a potluck favorite, or a freezer-friendly meal prep option, this recipe delivers on every level: taste, texture, and ease.

What sets this dish apart is its ability to evoke the flavors of a holiday meal—like Thanksgiving or Sunday supper—without the need for a full day in the kitchen. The stuffing mix adds a touch of nostalgia, while the creamy base (often made with cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce) wraps everything in savory warmth. The broccoli adds both color and nutrition, cutting through the richness with a mild earthiness that pairs beautifully with chicken. The result? A balanced, crowd-pleasing casserole that feels both indulgent and wholesome.

Over the years, Chicken Broccoli Stuffing Casserole has seen countless variations. Some home cooks use rotisserie chicken for speed and convenience, while others roast their own. Broccoli may be fresh or frozen, chopped fine or left in florets. The sauce might be shortcut with canned soup or lovingly built from scratch with butter, flour, and broth. And then there’s the stuffing: buttery and crisp on top, soft and flavorful underneath—a texture contrast that makes each bite more satisfying than the last.

This recipe is more than just a way to get dinner on the table—it’s a reflection of how we cook and live. It’s about resourcefulness, comfort, and the joy of feeding people something that makes them pause after a bite and say, “This is exactly what I needed.” It’s a casserole you can make ahead, double for leftovers, or adapt to what’s in your pantry. It’s simple, yes, but far from boring. With every layer, it offers a different note: savory, creamy, herbaceous, tender, crisp.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a deep dive into everything you need to know about making the perfect Chicken Broccoli Stuffing Casserole. We’ll explore ingredient variations, substitution ideas, homemade versus shortcut options, step-by-step instructions, tips for freezing and reheating, and creative spins to make it your own. Whether you’re cooking for a picky toddler, a group of hungry teenagers, or simply want a cozy dish for yourself on a rainy evening, this casserole is a reliable and rewarding option.

So pull out your casserole dish and your favorite mixing spoon—because we’re about to walk you through one of the most comforting, versatile, and satisfying meals you’ll ever make. It’s not fancy food—it’s feel-good food, and it deserves a place in every home cook’s repertoire.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Chicken Broccoli Stuffing Casserole

Overview

This comforting casserole comes together in layers:

1. Prepare and cook the chicken

2. Cook or steam the broccoli

3. Mix the creamy base

4. Combine everything in a casserole dish

5. Top with stuffing and bake to perfection

Whether you’re starting from scratch or using a few shortcuts, these detailed instructions ensure a balanced, flavorful, and properly textured result.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

You have two primary options here: cook your own chicken or use pre-cooked/rotisserie chicken. If using pre-cooked chicken, skip to Step 2.

Option A: Cook from scratch

What you’ll need:

• 2 to 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 to 2 pounds)

• Salt and pepper

• Olive oil or butter for cooking

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper.

2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter.

3. Sear the chicken breasts for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).

4. Remove from the pan and let rest for 5 minutes.

5. Dice or shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, season with garlic powder, paprika, or poultry seasoning before searing.

• You can also poach, bake, or pressure cook the chicken if preferred.

Option B: Use pre-cooked chicken

• Use 2 to 3 cups of diced or shredded rotisserie chicken.

• Remove skin and bones, and chop into bite-sized pieces.

• This is a great time-saving option for busy nights.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli

What you’ll need:

• 3 to 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

Using fresh broccoli:

1. Cut into small, uniform florets.

2. Steam for 4–5 minutes, until vibrant green and slightly tender. Do not overcook.

3. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Using frozen broccoli:

1. Thaw completely (either in the microwave or overnight in the fridge).

2. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

3. Chop into smaller pieces if needed.

Tips:

• Avoid using raw broccoli, as it may release water into the casserole and remain too firm.

• Steaming over boiling water or microwaving in a covered bowl with a little water are both efficient options.

Step 3: Prepare the Stuffing Mix

Stuffing adds a soft, buttery top layer and helps absorb the creamy sauce.

What you’ll need:

• 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (such as Stove Top, chicken flavor)

• 1 ½ cups hot water or chicken broth

• 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for richness)

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, pour hot water or broth over the dry stuffing mix.

2. Add butter if using, and stir gently.

3. Let sit for 5 minutes to absorb liquid and fluff with a fork.

Variations:

• Substitute homemade stuffing or leftover Thanksgiving stuffing.

• Add sautéed onions, celery, or mushrooms to the mix for extra texture and flavor.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Base

This rich, savory layer ties the chicken and broccoli together. You can use canned soup or make your own sauce from scratch.

Option A: Canned version (quick & classic)

What you’ll need:

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

• ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt

• ½ cup milk or heavy cream

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the soup, sour cream, milk, and seasonings until smooth.

Option B: Homemade white sauce (from scratch)

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons butter

• 3 tablespoons flour

• 1 ½ cups chicken broth

• ½ cup milk or cream

• Salt, pepper, and seasonings to taste

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Whisk in flour to form a roux; cook for 1–2 minutes until golden and bubbly.

3. Slowly whisk in broth and milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

4. Simmer until thickened (5–7 minutes).

5. Season to taste and let cool slightly.

Tip: The homemade sauce will give you more control over sodium and flavor.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Now it’s time to bring everything together in a single baking dish.

You’ll need:

• A 9×13-inch baking dish, greased lightly with butter or nonstick spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large bowl, combine:

   • Cooked chicken

   • Steamed broccoli

   • Creamy sauce mixture

3. Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.

Optional add-ins:

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for a richer casserole)

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for a tangy kick)

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (brightens the dish)

4. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

5. Spoon the stuffing mixture evenly over the top. Don’t press it down too firmly—fluff helps it stay light and crispy.

Step 6: Bake

Instructions:

1. Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven.

2. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy and the filling is bubbling at the edges.

3. If the stuffing browns too quickly, loosely tent with foil during the final 10 minutes.

Internal temp check (optional):

• The center should register at least 165°F if using fresh ingredients.

Step 7: Rest, Garnish, and Serve

Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes it easier to slice and serve.

Garnish ideas:

• Chopped fresh parsley

• Grated Parmesan cheese

• A sprinkle of paprika or black pepper for color

Serving suggestions:

• Serve with a simple green salad or side of roasted carrots.

• Add cranberry sauce or applesauce on the side for a comforting fall twist.

• For a lighter meal, pair with steamed green beans or a fresh cucumber salad.

Optional Variations

• Cheesy version: Add a layer of shredded cheddar or mozzarella under the stuffing.

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and stuffing mix.

• Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms and chickpeas; use vegetable broth.

• Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne, or stir in diced green chilies to the sauce.