Crunchy Broccoli Chicken Cheese Casserole (1 Hour)

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Warm, comforting, and bursting with flavor, this broccoli chicken cheese casserole is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed on both weeknights and special occasions. Tender chunks of chicken, nutritious broccoli, and a cheesy creamy sauce come together under a golden breadcrumb crust that adds a delightful crunch to every bite. Let’s dive into how to make this savory treat!

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4–6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
  • 4 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup milk or cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken (7-8minutes): In a medium skillet, cook the diced chicken with a bit of salt and pepper until it’s no longer pink inside. Set aside.
  2. Cook the Broccoli (5 minutes): In a pot of boiling water, blanch the broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes. They should be bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
  3. Make the Cheese Sauce (10 minutes): In a saucepan, melt the 2 tbsp of butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Slowly add the milk or cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Pour in the chicken broth and continue to stir. Allow the mixture to simmer and thicken. Once thickened, add in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until smooth.
  4. Combine Ingredients (5 minutes): In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, broccoli, and cheese sauce. Mix until everything is well-coated.
  5. Assemble the Casserole (5 minutes): Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
  6. Prepare the Crunchy Breadcrumb Topping (3 minutes): In a bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, melted butter, and garlic powder. Sprinkle this over the casserole.
  7. Bake (23-25 minutes): Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the breadcrumb topping is golden and the casserole is bubbling.
  8. Serve (3 minutes): Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Dish out generous portions and enjoy!

Notes

This casserole is best served hot and fresh from the oven. If you’d like to add even more depth to the flavor, consider sautéing some onions and garlic before adding the chicken to the skillet. For an extra kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes in the cheese sauce will do the trick. Pair with a light salad or some garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 410
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 560mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Pair this with...

Lemony Arugula Salad

Start with a generous handful of fresh arugula; it's peppery and packs a punch. Toss in a sprinkle of pine nuts for a delicate crunch. Now, for the star of the show – thinly shaved Parmesan; go on, be generous! For the dressing, whisk together the zest and juice of 1 lemon, 3 tbsp of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a crack of black pepper. The lemon brightens the bold arugula and complements the nutty pine nuts and salty Parmesan. Toss everything together and bam, a gourmet side salad in a snap.

Buttery Grilled Corn on the Cob

Start by selecting fresh ears of corn, husks and silks removed. Before grilling, melt some butter and brush it generously over each cob, ensuring every kernel is kissed with that buttery goodness. Season with a sprinkle of salt to contrast that natural sweetness. Once your grill is heated, lay the corn cobs on the grates, turning them occasionally to achieve an even char and those enticing grill marks. The butter will sizzle and infuse the corn with its rich flavor. When they're beautifully golden, remove from the grill. For an extra touch, you can add another swipe of butter or even sprinkle some fresh herbs or parmesan on top.

Baked Sweet Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it's heating up, give your sweet potatoes a good scrub under running water, ensuring they're clean. Pat them dry and, with a fork, pierce the skin a few times to allow steam to escape during baking. Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier cleanup. Pop them in the oven for about 45-50 minutes. They're ready when they're soft to the touch and a fork easily pierces through. Once out of the oven, slice them open, fluff the insides with a fork, and top with your choice of toppings: a pat of butter, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a dash of salt.

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