Rotisserie Chicken And Broccoli Bake
Highlighted under: Comfort Food Heritage
I love whipping up this Rotisserie Chicken and Broccoli Bake on busy weeknights. It's one of those recipes that feels comforting and indulgent, yet it's surprisingly easy to prepare. The rotisserie chicken simplifies the process, making it a breeze to throw together, while the broccoli adds a fresh touch. Every bite is satisfying, combining tender chicken, healthy greens, and a creamy sauce that ties it all together beautifully. This dish has quickly become a family favorite in our home, and I'm excited to share it with you!
When I first made this Rotisserie Chicken and Broccoli Bake, I was amazed at how a handful of simple ingredients could come together to create something so delicious. The key is using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, which saves time and adds incredible flavor. I remember the first time I tried mixing in a blend of cheddar and mozzarella; it elevated the dish to a whole new level!
One of my favorite tips is to ensure your broccoli is slightly undercooked before baking. This keeps it vibrant and perfectly tender, without turning mushy in the oven. It's all about finding that balance, which is why this recipe holds a special place on our dinner table.
Why You'll Love This
- Quick and easy preparation with rotisserie chicken
- Packed with nutritious broccoli and creamy cheese
- Perfect for busy weeknights or satisfying gatherings
Cooking with Rotisserie Chicken
Using rotisserie chicken is a game-changer for this bake. It drastically cuts down on prep time—no need to cook or shred your own chicken. Just ensure you choose a well-seasoned rotisserie for maximum flavor. I recommend picking off any skin to keep the dish a bit lighter. The juiciness of the rotisserie chicken melds wonderfully with the creamy sauce, creating a rich base that everyone will appreciate.
When shredding the chicken, try to tear it into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even distribution throughout the bake, which is crucial for a harmonious flavor in every bite. You can also use leftover cooked chicken if you have it on hand; just be mindful that you might want to adjust the seasoning since rotisserie chicken is typically well-seasoned.
Broccoli: Fresh or Frozen?
Broccoli is not just an afterthought in this dish; it adds both nutrition and texture. Whether you use fresh or frozen broccoli, the key is to ensure it is cooked just enough to preserve its vibrant color and crunch. If using fresh broccoli, briefly steam or blanch it before adding it to the mixture. For frozen, thaw and drain any excess water to avoid a watery bake.
The contrast between the tender chicken and the al dente broccoli in each bite creates a delightful texture experience. Additionally, broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse, contributing fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Don't hesitate to experiment with other vegetables; cauliflower or bell peppers can also work beautifully in this bake.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This Rotisserie Chicken and Broccoli Bake can be made ahead, making it a great option for meal prepping. Once assembled, cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. If you’d like to prepare it for freezing, assemble the dish and freeze it before baking. Just remember to cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
For reheating leftovers, I suggest warming individual portions in the microwave or placing the entire bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If the top seems dry, adding a splash of milk can help restore its creamy texture. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, broccoli florets, and cooked rice. Stir until evenly mixed.
Make the Sauce
In another bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Combine Ingredients
Pour the sauce over the chicken and broccoli mixture, then stir in half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
Transfer to Baking Dish
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and spread evenly. Top with remaining cheese and breadcrumbs if desired.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
Serve
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty and delicious meal!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or some red pepper flakes to the mixture before baking.
Flavor Enhancements
While this recipe calls for garlic and onion powder for flavor, feel free to elevate it with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. Adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce can provide a subtle tang that compliments the richness of the cheeses beautifully.
For a spicy kick, you might consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños. These can bring new dimensions to the creamy filling. Remember to taste as you combine ingredients for a perfect balance—nothing is worse than an overly bland casserole.
Topping Variations
The optional breadcrumb topping adds a nice crunch, but feel free to get creative! You could mix in some grated Parmesan cheese or crushed crackers for extra flavor and texture. Adding herbs like parsley or basil to the topping can also enhance presentation and taste.
For a healthier twist, consider using crushed nuts like almonds or walnuts instead of breadcrumbs. They add great flavor and a satisfying crunch while providing healthy fats. Just be cautious about allergies, especially if serving to a larger group.
Scaling the Recipe
This recipe is easily scalable if you're feeding a larger crowd. To double the recipe, simply use a larger baking dish, like a 12x18 inch. However, be mindful that cooking times may increase, so check for doneness by observing that bubbling and golden edges occur as expected.
If you need to reduce the recipe, halving the quantities is straightforward but ensure to use a smaller 8x8 inch baking dish. Cooking times may slightly decrease, so keep an eye on it as it bakes to avoid overcooking this delicious dish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the mix.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I substitute the chicken with turkey?
Absolutely! Shredded turkey works wonderfully and is a great way to use up leftover holiday turkey.
→ Is there a vegetarian alternative?
You can replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian version.
Rotisserie Chicken And Broccoli Bake
I love whipping up this Rotisserie Chicken and Broccoli Bake on busy weeknights. It's one of those recipes that feels comforting and indulgent, yet it's surprisingly easy to prepare. The rotisserie chicken simplifies the process, making it a breeze to throw together, while the broccoli adds a fresh touch. Every bite is satisfying, combining tender chicken, healthy greens, and a creamy sauce that ties it all together beautifully. This dish has quickly become a family favorite in our home, and I'm excited to share it with you!
Created by: Sabrina Holt
Recipe Type: Comfort Food Heritage
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, broccoli florets, and cooked rice. Stir until evenly mixed.
In another bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Pour the sauce over the chicken and broccoli mixture, then stir in half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and spread evenly. Top with remaining cheese and breadcrumbs if desired.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty and delicious meal!
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or some red pepper flakes to the mixture before baking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 630mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g