broccoli chicken cheese casserole recipe

broccoli chicken cheese casserole recipe

The Best broccoli chicken cheese casserole recipe

I’ve been making this broccoli chicken cheese casserole recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. I first discovered it when I was a young mom, looking for easy and healthy meals to feed my kids. It’s a perfect blend of tender chicken, crunchy broccoli, and creamy cheese all in one delicious dish.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour. This recipe has become a staple in our household, and I love how versatile it is – we can have it as a weeknight dinner or serve it at family gatherings. The health benefits of this dish are numerous too; the broccoli provides a good dose of vitamins and antioxidants, while the chicken is lean protein that keeps us full.

Plus, the cheese adds a richness without overpowering the other flavors. One of the key techniques in making this casserole is to cook the broccoli until it’s tender but still crisp, which helps preserve its flavor and texture. This technique also helps prevent overcooking the cheese on top.

Another crucial step is to use high-quality ingredients like fresh broccoli and real cheddar cheese – they make all the difference in the final result. My kids have grown up loving this recipe, and now they’re starting to help me in the kitchen, learning how to prepare the ingredients and assemble the casserole. It’s wonderful to see them develop their own cooking skills and take an interest in healthy eating.

As I look back on my years as a mom, I’m grateful for recipes like this one that have brought so much joy and nourishment to our family.

Broccoli Chicken Cheese Casserole

Broccoli Chicken Cheese Casserole

4.8 from 1976 votes

A comforting and hearty casserole with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce, all baked to golden perfection. This easy one-dish meal is perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Casserole

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
3 cups broccoli florets
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz)
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp salt

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×9 inch baking dish.
2Steam the broccoli florets for 3 to 4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender, then drain well.
3In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
4Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.
5Fold in 3/4 cup of the cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup of the mozzarella cheese, reserving the rest for topping.
6Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
7In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter until well combined.
8Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the casserole, then top with the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
9Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the top is golden brown.
10Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.

🔧Equipment

9×9 inch baking dish
Large mixing bowl
Small bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 24g💛Saturated Fat: 11g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 980mg🌾Total Carbs: 18g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 32g

📝Notes

Tips: For a lighter version, use low-fat soup and reduced-fat cheese. You can also add cooked rice or pasta to stretch the casserole further. Make sure the broccoli is well-drained to avoid a watery casserole.

Watch Video Of How Broccoli Chicken Cheese Casserole Works

This broccoli chicken cheese casserole recipe has been a faithful companion through many family gatherings and weeknight dinners. Its versatility makes it perfect for any occasion – whether you’re feeding a crowd or just need a quick meal for your family.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to reheat – simply pop it in the oven for a few minutes until warm through. You can even serve it at room temperature if needed.

When storing leftovers, make sure to refrigerate them promptly and reheat within two days for optimal flavor.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Broccoli Chicken Cheese Casserole

What type of chicken should I use?

In this recipe, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs – both work well.

Can I substitute other vegetables for broccoli?

Yes, you can use other vegetables like cauliflower or carrots if you prefer.

How do I prevent overcooking the cheese?

To avoid overcooking the cheese, make sure to check it frequently while it’s baking in the oven.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance but store it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

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