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!

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

Find it online: https://www.heresyourdinner.com/crunchy-broccoli-chicken-cheese-casserole-1-hour/