If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy casserole that feels like a warm hug, this Chicken Broccoli Bake with Cheddar, Parmesan, and Ritz Crackers Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy sauce loaded with sharp cheddar and nutty Parmesan, all topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crunch that takes every bite to the next level. This dish isn’t just easy to make—it’s an impressive crowd-pleaser that brings together simple ingredients in the most delicious way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the hearty chicken to the fresh broccoli, and the cheeses that create that irresistible gooey layer, every component is essential.
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cooked and chopped—this provides the tender, protein-packed base.
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets: Bright, fresh broccoli adds a vibrant color and a satisfying crispness.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, cheddar delivers the rich cheesy goodness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory depth that pairs beautifully with cheddar.
- 1 can cream of chicken soup: The secret to creamy comfort that binds everything together.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Introduces a tangy creaminess that balances richness.
- 1/2 cup milk: Ensures the sauce is smooth and luscious without being too thick.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses savory warmth throughout the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the tastes together.
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers: For that iconic buttery crunch atop your bake.
How to Make Chicken Broccoli Bake with Cheddar, Parmesan, and Ritz Crackers Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so nothing sticks and clean-up is a breeze. Setting the stage properly helps everything cook evenly and makes sure the topping crisps perfectly.
Step 2: Steam Your Broccoli to Perfection
Steam the broccoli florets just until they turn a vibrant bright green and remain tender-crisp. This step is key for preserving their taste and texture so they don’t get mushy in the bake.
Step 3: Whip Up That Creamy Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until you have a smooth, luscious sauce that will coat the chicken and broccoli with pure comfort.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Broccoli
Fold the chopped cooked chicken and steamed broccoli into the creamy sauce. This mixture is already delicious, but it’s just the base for the magic to come.
Step 5: Assemble in the Baking Dish
Pour your combined mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out gently so every bite will have that perfect blend of chicken, broccoli, and creamy sauce in every spoonful.
Step 6: Add Cheddar, Parmesan, and Ritz Cracker Toppings
Sprinkle shredded cheddar followed by grated Parmesan cheese over the top to create a golden cheesy crust. Then, scatter the crushed Ritz crackers generously over everything for a buttery, crispy finish that’s absolutely irresistible.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the casserole for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbly all over and the topping turns a gorgeous golden brown. The aroma alone will have you running to the table.
Step 8: Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, let your Chicken Broccoli Bake with Cheddar, Parmesan, and Ritz Crackers Recipe rest for a few minutes. This helps the dish set up slightly, so it’s easier to serve and every bite is creamy yet firm.
How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Bake with Cheddar, Parmesan, and Ritz Crackers Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a lovely pop of color and fresh flavor. For a touch of brightness, a squeeze of lemon juice drizzled right before serving can awaken the creamy richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This bake pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette to contrast the richness. For a heartier meal, roasted baby potatoes or garlic bread are fantastic choices that complement the casserole’s flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try spooning this Chicken Broccoli Bake into individual ramekins for a charming presentation and handy single servings. Alternatively, serve over a bed of fluffy rice or buttered noodles to soak up all the creamy sauce and make the meal even more satisfying.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld together overnight, making the next-day dinner just as delicious.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole before baking or after it’s cooked. Wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to preserve the crispy topping, or use a microwave for convenience but beware the topping might soften a bit. Adding a few minutes under the broiler can help revive some crunch.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works fine. Just thaw and drain it well to avoid extra moisture making the bake soggy.
Is it okay to use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar and Parmesan create a perfect balance, you can experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even Gruyere for different flavor profiles.
Can I prepare this recipe without cooked chicken?
You need pre-cooked chicken for the best results, but leftover roasted chicken or even canned chicken works well, saving you time.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Swap the Ritz crackers for gluten-free crackers or crushed gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep the topping crispy without gluten.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. It’s perfect for cooking ahead and portioning out for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Broccoli Bake with Cheddar, Parmesan, and Ritz Crackers Recipe is pure comfort food made effortlessly special. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your rotation because it’s flavorful, satisfying, and easy to put together whenever you crave something cozy yet impressive. I can’t wait for you to try it and watch it become a go-to favorite for your family and friends!
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Chicken Broccoli Bake with Cheddar, Parmesan, and Ritz Crackers Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken Broccoli Bake is a comforting and creamy casserole perfect for a quick family dinner. Tender chicken breasts combine with fresh broccoli, a rich cheese sauce, and a crunchy cracker topping, all baked to golden perfection in under an hour.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Topping
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly to prevent sticking.
- Steam Broccoli: Steam the broccoli florets until they turn bright green and are tender yet still crisp, which usually takes about 4-5 minutes. This will ensure they retain a pleasant texture in the casserole.
- Make Sauce: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir the ingredients together until you achieve a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked chopped chicken and steamed broccoli into the sauce mixture. Mix well so that the chicken and broccoli are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Assemble: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly to create a uniform layer.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Then, cover with a layer of crushed Ritz crackers to add a crispy topping.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Bake until the casserole is bubbly and the cracker topping turns a beautiful golden brown color.
- Rest & Serve: After baking, allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes to set. Then serve warm for a delicious and hearty meal.
Notes
- You can substitute frozen broccoli, but be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before using.
- If preferred, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier option.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free crackers or omit the cracker topping.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and assembled in the baking dish, then refrigerated and baked before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
