Are you looking for a comforting and delicious dinner option? Look no further than this Chicken, Broccoli, and Cheddar Casserole. It combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and rich cheddar cheese in a creamy sauce, all topped with a crispy breadcrumb layer. Not only is this dish easy to prepare, but it also serves as a great way to use up leftovers, making it perfect for busy weeknights or make-ahead meals.
Ingredients for Chicken, Broccoli, and Cheddar Casserole
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 2 cups cooked chopped broccoli
- 2 (10.5 ounce) cans condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 pinch ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup salted butter, melted
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing the Casserole
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly.
Step 2: Combine the Filling Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, cooked chopped broccoli, condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and a pinch of black pepper. Mix well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Add Cheddar Cheese
Next, stir in 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese into the mixture. This will add to the creaminess of your casserole.
Step 4: Transfer to Casserole Dish
Pour the entire mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish, spreading it out uniformly. Then, top the mixture with the remaining shredded Cheddar cheese.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
In a separate bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of bread crumbs with 1/4 cup of melted salted butter. Mix until the bread crumbs are completely coated in butter.
Step 6: Add the Topping
Sprinkle the bread crumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create that delightful crunchy texture when baked.
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and the cheese is melted.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven, let it cool slightly, and then serve it warm. You’ll truly enjoy the cozy flavors of this dish.
Tips for Making the Perfect Chicken, Broccoli, and Cheddar Casserole
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken: It adds fantastic flavor and saves time.
- Make your own bread crumbs: Homemade bread crumbs offer a fresher taste.
- Try Ritz crackers: If you want a delicious twist, use crushed Ritz crackers instead of bread crumbs for extra buttery flavor.
- Canned chunk white chicken: This is a great substitute if you have it on hand.
Variations of Chicken, Broccoli, and Cheddar Casserole
Feel free to get creative! Here are some variations you might enjoy:
- Add more veggies: Try incorporating peas, carrots, or mushrooms for added color and nutrition.
- Spice it up: Consider adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a little kick.
- Use different cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
Nutritional Information for Chicken, Broccoli, and Cheddar Casserole
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional facts per serving:
- Calories: 474
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 29g
- Sodium: 944mg
- Cholesterol: 104mg
This casserole not only satisfies your taste buds but also packs a nutritious punch thanks to the chicken and broccoli.
Recommended Side Dishes to Serve with Chicken, Broccoli, and Cheddar Casserole
To complete your meal, pair this casserole with one of these satisfying sides:
- Steamed rice: A perfect base for the casserole to soak into.
- Garlic bread: Deliciously crunchy and complements the cheesy flavors.
- Side salad: Fresh greens can balance the richness of the dish.
Storage and Freezing Tips for Chicken, Broccoli, and Cheddar Casserole
You might want to make this dish ahead of time or save leftovers. Here’s how to store it effectively:
- Refrigeration: Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil and store for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
With these easy steps and tips, you are now ready to make a delicious Chicken, Broccoli, and Cheddar Casserole that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy the comforting flavors and don’t forget to have some fun in the kitchen!