Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole: A Comforting One-Dish Meal
If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting meal that is easy to make, this Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole will hit the spot! With its combination of tender chunks of chicken, nutritious broccoli, and a rich and creamy cheese sauce, it’s a delicious one-dish meal that will please both adults and kids alike. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this casserole recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 4 cups broccoli florets, blanched
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup of sour cream
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
- Add the cooked chicken, blanched broccoli florets, and 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce mixture. Stir until all the ingredients are well coated.
- Transfer the chicken and broccoli mixture to the prepared casserole dish.
- In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and melted butter, then sprinkle over the top of the casserole.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top of the breadcrumb mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips:
- For a crunchier topping, you can mix in some grated Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs.
- Feel free to use fresh or frozen broccoli, but make sure to blanch it first to maintain its bright color and texture.
- To cut down on prep time, use a rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken.
- Add a pinch of paprika or red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
This Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is not only an easy recipe to prepare, but it’s also a great way to get your family to enjoy their greens. Serve this warm and bubbly casserole with a side salad or a piece of crusty bread for a satisfying meal. Enjoy!