Welcome to the world of mouthwatering flavors with our easy-to-make Chicken and Broccoli Casserole. This dish is not just a warm comfort food for chilly evenings, but it's also a great way to bring your family together at the dining table. Our recipe combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, creamy cheese, and a crispy topping that all come together for a delightful feast.
It's the perfect balance of protein and greens, giving you a wholesome meal that's bursting with nutrition and taste. Even if you're new to cooking, this recipe is straightforward to follow, ensuring a delicious result every time.
Table of Contents
Why This Recipe Works
Firstly, this Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is not just your average casserole. It's a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that can impress anyone. The creamy, cheesy sauce envelops every piece of chicken and broccoli, making each bite a dream come true. The crispy breadcrumb topping adds a delightful contrast, providing that perfect crunch with each mouthful. It's comfort food that feels gourmet, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Secondly, this recipe is not only delicious but also versatile and healthy. It's an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, as the broccoli adds a fresh burst of nutrition. Chicken provides lean protein, and you can always choose a low-fat cheese to keep the meal light. Plus, you can easily adapt this recipe to your liking, adding different vegetables, spices, or even using a different type of meat. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is a recipe you'll love to make and eat!
Ingredients
Chicken- This is the protein of your casserole. Any type of chicken will work, but boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the easiest to use. If you want, you can substitute turkey or tofu for a different taste.
Broccoli- Adds a pop of color and a lot of nutrients to your dish. Fresh broccoli is the best, but you can also use frozen if you don't have fresh. If you're not a fan of broccoli, try using cauliflower or green beans instead.
Cheese-We'll use cheddar in this recipe for its rich, creamy flavor. Mozzarella or Gouda can also be used as alternatives.
Cream of Mushroom Soup- This provides a creamy base for our casserole. If you prefer, cream of chicken or cream of celery can also be used.
Rice- This will give your casserole some substance and make it more filling. You can use white or brown rice. If you're looking for a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice.
Tips
- Make sure your chicken is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole. Undercooked chicken can lead to foodborne illness.
- Pre-cook your broccoli a bit before adding it to the casserole to ensure it's not too crunchy.
- Shred your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents and doesn't melt as well.
- If using fresh mushrooms in your cream of mushroom soup, sauté them first to bring out the flavor.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the flavors to meld together.
How to serve
A chicken and broccoli casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. As a hearty, one-dish meal, it can be the main star of your lunch or dinner. You could pair it with a simple salad for a balanced meal. Alternatively, it could also serve as a side dish to your main protein such as a roast or grilled steak.
- If you're looking to get creative, you could serve the casserole inside a hollowed-out bread bowl for a unique presentation.
- Or, make it part of a buffet-style meal, pairing it with other favorite casseroles and comfort foods.
- You could even top it with some crispy fried onions or bacon bits for added crunch and flavor.
Looking for more ideas? Check out What To Serve With Chicken Broccoli Casserole for 15 delicious recipes.
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Instant Pot Chicken Broccoli Casserole
Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup cooked rice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook your chicken thoroughly and cut it into bite-sized pieces.
- Parboil your broccoli florets until they're slightly tender.
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken, broccoli, soup, and rice.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Nutrition
Notes
- Make sure your chicken is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole. Undercooked chicken can lead to foodborne illness.
- Pre-cook your broccoli a bit before adding it to the casserole to ensure it's not too crunchy.
- Shred your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents and doesn't melt as well.
- If using fresh mushrooms in your cream of mushroom soup, sauté them first to bring out the flavor.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the flavors to meld together.