Introduction
Welcome to a cozy kitchen experience with this delightful Chicken Cheese Broccoli Casserole! This dish is a perfect blend of tender chicken, vibrant green broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a dish to impress at your next gathering, this casserole has it all. With its delicious flavors and simple preparation, it’s a go-to recipe that the whole family will love!
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your casserole bakes evenly and develops that golden brown top we all love.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked, shredded chicken and broccoli florets. Add the softened cream cheese, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is beautifully mixed together.
- Fold in the sour cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese, creating a rich and creamy texture that will coat your chicken and broccoli.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, making sure to spread it out evenly to ensure all parts are deliciously baked.
- Sprinkle the top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and grate the Parmesan cheese generously over everything, creating a cheesy crust that melts to perfection.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is wonderfully melted and bubbly, with a light golden color.
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This cooling time will help the flavors settle and make serving easier.
Notes or Tips
For a burst of flavor, feel free to add some cooked bacon pieces or sautéed onions to the mixture. If you want to pack in more veggies, consider adding some diced bell peppers or even a handful of spinach.
This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking, making it a fantastic option for meal prep!
Cooking Techniques
The combination of baking and using softened cheeses creates a wonderfully creamy and satisfying casserole. Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature to mix evenly, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.
Using cooked chicken helps streamline the process, leaving you more time to enjoy the rich textures and flavors of this comforting dish.
FAQ
Can I use fresh broccoli? Absolutely! Just blanch the fresh broccoli florets in boiling water for a couple of minutes before adding them to the casserole to ensure they are tender.
How can I make this casserole ahead of time? Simply prepare the casserole up to the point before baking, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just increase the bake time by about 10-15 minutes.
Conclusion
This Chicken Cheese Broccoli Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a heartwarming dish that brings family together around the dinner table. With each cheesy bite filled with tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, it’s a comforting classic that’s bound to become a staple in your home. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a casserole that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat!