Broccoli Chicken Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and a creamy sauce topped with a crunchy breadcrumb and Parmesan cheese layer. It's an easy-to-make, hearty meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner, and the use of reduced-fat ingredients makes it a healthier option for those looking for a comforting yet sensible dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. cooked chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 20 oz. frozen chopped broccoli, cooked and drained
- 2 cans of reduced-fat cream of chicken soup
- ⅔ cup evaporated milk
- ½ tsp. garlic powder
- 1 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup bread crumbs
- 3 tbsp. Parmesan cheese
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure the casserole cooks evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli and Chicken
Cook the frozen chopped broccoli according to package instructions, then drain any excess water. If your chicken isn’t already cooked, boil or bake it until fully cooked, then cut it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Combine the Main Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and drained broccoli, bite-sized chicken pieces, two cans of reduced-fat cream of chicken soup, and ⅔ cup of evaporated milk. Add ½ teaspoon of garlic powder to the mixture for flavor. Stir these ingredients until they are well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the broccoli and chicken mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle 1 cup of reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mixture.
Step 5: Add Toppings
In a small bowl, mix together ½ cup of bread crumbs and 3 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this breadcrumb and cheese mixture evenly over the top of the cheddar cheese layer in the casserole dish.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
Step 7: Serve
Once the casserole is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to serve.
Cooking Note:
- Ensure that the broccoli is well-drained to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Chicken Broccoli Casserole hot as a standalone meal or with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete dinner.
Tips:
- Chicken Preparation: You can use leftover chicken or even a store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for the topping, such as a blend of cheddar and mozzarella.
- Breadcrumb Crunch: For an extra crunch, you can mix a little melted butter into the breadcrumb topping.
Prep Time:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 300-350 per serving (varies based on the serving size and specific ingredients used)
- Protein: 20-25g per serving
- Sodium: Varies based on the cream of chicken soup and added salt
Conclusion
Broccoli Chicken Casserole is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that's perfect for a comforting family meal. Its combination of tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and creamy, cheesy goodness makes it a satisfying option for any day of the week. Enjoy the classic flavors and the simple preparation of this homestyle casserole.
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