In the world of comfort food, few dishes can rival the heartwarming embrace of chicken broccoli casserole. Imagine a bubbling, cheesy goodness filled with tender chicken and vibrant green broccoli, all cloaked in a creamy sauce that just begs to be devoured. The moment you pop it into the oven, your kitchen fills with a rich aroma that promises warmth and satisfaction, leading you to believe that maybe this casserole could solve all your problems—at least until bedtime! For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for chicken broccoli casserole
- How to Make chicken broccoli casserole
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs :
- What ingredients do I need for chicken broccoli casserole?
- How long does it take to bake chicken broccoli casserole?
- Can I make chicken broccoli casserole ahead of time?
- Is chicken broccoli casserole healthy?
- Conclusion for chicken broccoli casserole :
- 📖 Recipe Card
I remember the first time I tried making chicken broccoli casserole. It was a chilly evening, and my friends were coming over for a cozy dinner. With the confidence of a seasoned chef (or so I thought), I tossed together ingredients while simultaneously juggling wine glasses and debating whether to wear an apron or not. Thai chicken salad Spoiler alert: I didn’t. But as we gathered around the table, laughter and stories flowed as freely as my questionable cooking skills. That night remains etched in my memory, showcasing how food brings people together in the most delightful ways.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chicken broccoli casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Its creamy texture and cheesy flavor will please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
- Visually appealing with its vibrant colors, this dish is sure to impress guests during gatherings.
- Versatile enough to tweak for different dietary preferences or ingredient swaps, you’ll find endless ways to enjoy it!
Ingredients for chicken broccoli casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts; they cook faster and are easier to shred.
- Fresh Broccoli: Opt for bright green florets; they add color and crunch to your casserole.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: This will serve as the base of your creamy sauce; feel free to use low-fat options.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar melts beautifully and gives that gooey texture we all love.
- Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder elevates the flavor profile without overwhelming it.
For the Topping:
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These add an irresistible crunch on top; consider mixing them with melted butter for extra richness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. steak fingers recipe.
How to Make chicken broccoli casserole
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a baking dish (about 9×13 inches), and give it a loving spray with nonstick cooking spray to ensure that nothing sticks like last week’s leftovers.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large pot of boiling water, cook the boneless chicken breasts for about 15-20 minutes until fully cooked. Don’t forget to season the water with salt—it’s like giving your chicken a spa day!
Step 3: Prepare Broccoli
While your chicken is boiling away, steam about two cups of fresh broccoli florets until they’re bright green but still crisp—around three minutes should do it!
Step 4: Mix It All Together
Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and mix it in a big bowl with steamed broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, and half of your shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until well combined.
Step 5: Assemble Your Casserole
Pour this glorious mixture into your prepared baking dish. Top it off with the remaining cheese and panko breadcrumbs for that crunchy finish—trust me; nobody likes a soggy casserole!
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Pop your casserole into the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until everything is bubbly and golden brown on top. When you pull it out, let it cool for five minutes; patience is key here!
Transfer to plates and drizzle some additional sauce over if desired for the perfect finishing touch.
And there you have it! A delightful chicken broccoli casserole that’s sure to become a staple in your home. Enjoy those happy faces around your dinner table—after all, laughter (and good food) is what makes life truly delicious! crockpot barbeque chicken.
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken broccoli casserole offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while you sauté the chicken and broccoli in a skillet. Once they’re golden, cook the rice according to package instructions. Mix everything together with the creamy sauce, then bake until bubbly for perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the broccoli for your favorite veggie, like spinach or cauliflower. Experiment with spices such as garlic powder or paprika to kick up the flavor, or add shredded cheese for extra gooey goodness.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken broccoli casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, ensuring it remains deliciously creamy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always cook your chicken thoroughly to avoid any surprises later!
- Use fresh broccoli instead of frozen for better texture.
- And remember, let it cool before storing to maintain its creaminess.
Cooking this chicken broccoli casserole always reminds me of family gatherings where laughter and good food filled the air. My cousin once declared it “the ultimate comfort food,” and I couldn’t agree more!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for chicken broccoli casserole?
To prepare a delicious chicken broccoli casserole, gather the following ingredients: cooked chicken breast, fresh or frozen broccoli florets, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, and breadcrumbs. You can also add seasonings like garlic powder, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavor. Feel free to customize your dish by adding other vegetables or using different types of cheese according to your preference.
How long does it take to bake chicken broccoli casserole?
Baking chicken broccoli casserole usually takes around 25 to 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Ensure that the casserole is heated thoroughly and the cheese is melted and bubbly. To check for doneness, insert a fork in the center; it should be hot throughout. If you prefer a crispy topping, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end.
Can I make chicken broccoli casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare chicken broccoli casserole ahead of time by assembling all the ingredients and storing it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it convenient for busy days. Just remember to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before putting it in the oven.
Is chicken broccoli casserole healthy?
Chicken broccoli casserole can be a healthy meal option when prepared with wholesome ingredients. It provides lean protein from chicken, fiber from broccoli, and essential nutrients from other veggies. To make it even healthier, consider using low-fat cheese and whole grain breadcrumbs. This dish is versatile and can easily accommodate various dietary needs while still being comforting and satisfying.
Conclusion for chicken broccoli casserole :
In summary, chicken broccoli casserole is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with nutritious broccoli and creamy goodness. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners or meal prep. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe allows for customization according to your taste preferences. sour cream chicken enchilada casserole Enjoying this comforting meal not only satisfies hunger but also provides essential nutrients!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Chicken Broccoli Casserole
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Chicken Broccoli Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and joy to your dinner table. This creamy, cheesy dish features tender chicken and vibrant broccoli enveloped in a rich sauce, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its delightful aroma wafting through the kitchen, this casserole promises to be a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked, shredded boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In boiling salted water, cook chicken breasts for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked. Shred the chicken.
- Steam broccoli florets until bright green and crisp, about 3 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, and half of the cheddar cheese.
- Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining cheese and panko breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 casserole (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
