Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe

There’s something divine about the rich, cheesy aroma wafting from the oven as you prepare your Chicken and Broccoli Casserole. This dish, brimming with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy sauce, evokes warmth and nostalgia, reminding you of cozy family dinners from childhood. It’s one of those recipes that come together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or comforting weekend meals. Not only is it kid-friendly – with its gooey cheese and enticing textures – but it also satisfies even the pickiest of eaters, making it a beloved staple in many homes.

So, are you ready to create a meal that’ll have your family coming back for seconds (or thirds)?

What’s Your Comfort Food?

Have you ever found yourself reaching for something that feels like a warm hug, especially on chilly evenings? Imagine curling up with a generous serving of Chicken and Broccoli Casserole – what’s not to love about blending tender chicken, tender-crisp broccoli, and a crispy, buttery topping that crackles with every bite? This casserole beckons your taste buds to indulge and evokes fond memories of home-cooked goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken and Broccoli Casserole presents a plethora of reasons why it should be your next go-to dish:

Easy Prep: With minimal ingredients and prep time, even novice cooks can whip this up effortlessly.
Healthier Indulgence: Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber-rich broccoli, it’s a balanced meal that nourishes.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners, it’s a dish everyone will love.
Pantry Staples: Most ingredients are likely already in your kitchen, from chicken to rice to those beloved Ritz crackers.

Ingredients

To embark on this culinary journey, gather the following mouth-watering ingredients:

4 Tbsp. unsalted butter, divided, plus more for greasing
4 (6-oz.) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 Tbsp. all-purpose seasoning salt (such as Lawry’s or Adobo)
2 Tbsp. neutral oil
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
Kosher salt, to taste
4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice, rinsed to perfection
3 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth, blessing your dish with flavor
2 (10-oz.) cans cream of mushroom soup, for creamy delightful richness
2 heads of broccoli, cut into florets, adding that vibrant green crunch
1 1/2 cups crushed Ritz crackers, the crispy topping we crave
1/4 tsp. garlic powder, for an extra punch
1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, to elevate the taste
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar, divided, for ooey gooey goodness

Timing

Whether you’re in need of a fast indulgence or want to take your time savoring every step, this recipe fits the bill. You can prepare it in under an hour, but let’s be honest, allowing the casserole to meld its flavors and bubble in the oven for a few extra moments brings that luxurious depth we all seek.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F and grease a 13" x 9" baking dish with butter. Feel the energy of anticipation as you prepare for something delectable.
Slice the chicken into thin cutlets and season generously with seasoning salt. Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat, cooking that chicken into a golden-brown delight—about 7 minutes on each side.
Transfer the heavenly chicken to a cutting board to rest. In the same skillet, melt 2 Tbsp. of butter. Add the onion, season with salt, and cook until softened and aromatic. Stir in the garlic, letting the fragrance dance around your kitchen.
Toss in the rinsed rice, toasting it for 2-3 minutes to coax out its flavors. Now, add the chicken broth and cream of mushroom soup creating a rich mixture, and transfer it all to the prepared baking dish, covering it with foil.
Pop that dish into the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Don’t forget to stir halfway through, allowing the spices to blend and flavor the dish beautifully.
Meanwhile, bring a pot of water to boil for the broccoli. Blanch the florets until they turn a bright green and crisp. Then transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking.
Shred your previously cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. The aroma should now be intoxicating!
In a mixing bowl, melt the remaining butter and stir in crushed crackers, garlic powder, pepper, and half a cup of cheese. This tantalizing mixture will act as the crispy topping!
Once the casserole is out of the oven, uncover it, and fold in the shredded chicken and broccoli. Top this with your buttery cracker mixture and the remaining cheddar cheese.
Bake again, uncovered, until the broccoli is tender and the topping is bubbling and golden—this will take about 10-15 minutes. Allow the casserole to cool slightly before diving in.

Nutritional Information

Calories in a serving of Chicken and Broccoli Casserole come in at around 450, but remember, indulging in a cozy, comforting dish every now and again is part of life’s pleasures!

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking for lighter options, consider substituting the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade blend of low-fat Greek yogurt and chicken broth, or swap out the cheddar for a dairy-free cheese to cater to various dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

As one of those versatile dishes, Chicken and Broccoli Casserole shines as an incredible centerpiece for family dinners. Pair it with a light salad, or if you’re feeling indulgent, serve it alongside some ice cream for dessert to balance a creamy main course.

Common Mistakes

Casserole baking comes with its own set of challenges. Ensure you don’t overbake; a casserole that is too long in the oven can dry out. If you’re worried, take a minute to test the texture halfway through. Messes can be minimized with well-greased pans, and always go easy on the salt until your dish comes together.

Storing Tips

For meal prep enthusiasts, feel free to prepare this casserole in advance! Freeze individual portions to enjoy later or refrigerate leftovers for quick reheating. Reheat in an oven at 350 degrees F for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through.

Tempting Conclusion

There you have it—a simple yet heartwarming dish that promises to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. So why wait? Bake that Chicken and Broccoli Casserole as soon as possible and treat yourself and your loved ones to a plateful of nostalgia and comfort.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and bake it the next day or freeze it for later consumption.

2. Can I use different vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to switch out broccoli for spinach or cauliflower based on your preference.

3. How do I know when it’s done?
The casserole should be bubbling, and the topping should be golden brown when ready. Use a thermometer to check that chicken reaches at least 165°F.

4. Is it suitable for freezing?
Definitely! This casserole freezes very well; just be sure to allow it to cool completely before storing.

5. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Certainly! Substitute the all-purpose flour and Ritz crackers with gluten-free options to enjoy this recipe without worry.