Broccoli Chicken Casserole
A delightful and comforting casserole made with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy sauce, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded Feel free to swap in turkey for a twist
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets Frozen broccoli can be used if in a pinch
- 1 cup cooked rice Brown rice adds a nice nuttiness
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Or try a blend for extra flavor
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup Swap with cream of mushroom for a vegetarian option
- 1/2 cup milk Almond milk works great for a dairy-free take
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Because garlic makes everything better
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika For a touch of color and sweetness
Toppings
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs Optional, for a crunchy topping
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready to perfectly bake your casserole.
- Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli: In a large bowl, combine your shredded chicken and fresh broccoli florets. If using frozen broccoli, make sure it’s thawed and drained.
- Mix the Sauce: In another bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and paprika. This creamy mixture will bind everything together beautifully.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked rice and half of the shredded cheese to the chicken and broccoli mix. Pour the creamy sauce over everything and stir until evenly coated.
- Transfer to Casserole Dish: Spoon the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish for even cooking.
- Add More Cheese and Topping: Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, followed by the breadcrumbs if you’re using them.
Baking
- Bake: Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling, and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before diving in. This allows the flavors to meld and makes serving easier.
Notes
Consider adding variations such as quinoa for a healthy twist, mixing in mozzarella for additional creaminess, or incorporating dried cranberries for a festive flair. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze in a container.