Broccoli Chicken Casserole is like a warm, comforting hug on a chilly evening. Picture tender chicken baked to perfection, nestled among vibrant broccoli florets, all smothered in a creamy sauce that beckons you closer with its rich aroma. Oven Roasted Citrus Chicken One Pan Chicken with Noodles The melted cheese bubbling on top creates an irresistible golden crust that makes your mouth water. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Rice recipe.
This dish isn’t just about flavor; it’s about memories and laughter shared around the dinner table. I remember the first time I made this casserole for my family—there was enough enthusiasm to power a small city! It became a staple at our gatherings, and now it’s time for you to create your own delicious moments with this delightful recipe. Spicy Gojuhgang Eggs.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This Broccoli Chicken Casserole is easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights. The blend of flavors creates a comforting and satisfying meal everyone will enjoy. Its beautiful presentation makes it a showstopper at any gathering. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite veggies or add extra cheese for indulgence! [/info_box]
I still chuckle when I think about how my cousin tried to sneak extra servings when he thought no one was looking—spoiler alert: we were all watching!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts are ideal, but feel free to adjust based on your crowd size.
Fresh Broccoli Florets: Choose bright green florets for the best texture and flavor; they should be firm and not wilted.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess and depth; opt for low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for a more robust flavor; it’s the star of the cheesy topping!
Garlic Powder: A little sprinkle goes a long way in enhancing the overall taste of the casserole.
Onion Powder: This subtly sweetens the dish; use fresh onions if you’re feeling fancy!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These create an extra crunchy topping; toast them lightly before sprinkling for added flavor.
Olive Oil: A drizzle helps brown breadcrumbs while adding richness to the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking while you prepare other ingredients.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. You want that lovely sear!
Add Broccoli Florets: While chicken cooks, steam broccoli until bright green and just tender—about 3-4 minutes. This keeps them vibrant in your casserole. For more inspiration, check out this Crockpot Kung Pao Chicken recipe.
Combine Ingredients in a Bowl: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken (diced), steamed broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of your shredded cheese. Stir until well mixed.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it evenly so every bite has plenty of goodness inside!
Add Topping and Bake: In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with olive oil before sprinkling on top of the casserole along with remaining cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Now you have a delicious Broccoli Chicken Casserole ready to impress family and friends! Enjoy each cheesy bite as you reminisce about those moments shared around the table. Sweet Hawaiian Chicken.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] This delicious broccoli chicken casserole is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy goodness. It’s an easy weeknight meal that brings family together. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any) taste even better the next day! [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking your chicken first, then sauté your broccoli while mixing the creamy sauce. This ensures everything is perfectly cooked and flavors meld harmoniously.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out broccoli for other veggies like cauliflower or spinach. You can also spice it up with different cheeses or herbs for a personal twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for optimal texture.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] To keep your casserole creamy, avoid overcooking the chicken; it should be juicy but not pink. Always steam the broccoli lightly before adding it to maintain its vibrant color. For extra flavor, mix in garlic powder or a squeeze of lemon juice! [/info_box]
I remember the first time I made this casserole; my kids were skeptical about broccoli but ended up asking for seconds! Their giggles and smiles filled our kitchen with warmth.
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli in this casserole?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding to avoid excess moisture.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Consider using low-fat cheese and incorporating more vegetables into the mix for added nutrients.
What can I serve alongside this casserole?
A simple green salad or some crusty bread pairs perfectly with this creamy dish for a complete meal.
Broccoli Chicken Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Broccoli Chicken Casserole is a cozy, family-friendly dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy sauce topped with crispy cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe offers both comfort and convenience, allowing you to create delicious memories around the dinner table.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced chicken until golden brown on both sides (about 5-7 minutes per side).
- Steam the broccoli for about 3-4 minutes until bright green and just tender.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the shredded cheese; mix well.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
- In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with olive oil; sprinkle over the casserole along with the remaining cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
