Chicken Casserole Recipe

Are you looking for a delicious, creamy, and easy-to-make meal for dinner tonight? This Chicken Casserole with Broccoli and Creamy Sauce is the perfect recipe to satisfy your cravings. Packed with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich cream sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and ideal for a busy weeknight. Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to creating this mouthwatering casserole!

Ingredients:

To make this creamy chicken casserole, you will need:

3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
4 cups fresh broccoli florets
2 cups of rice, cooked
1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup of sour cream
1 can of condensed cream of chicken soup (about 10.5 oz)
1/2 cup of mayonnaise
1/4 cup of milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon butter, for greasing the dish
1 cup of crushed Ritz crackers (or any favorite crackers)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for baking the casserole evenly and ensuring the creamy sauce sets just right.

2. Prepare the Broccoli:

Bring a pot of water to a boil, add a pinch of salt, and blanch the broccoli florets for about 3 minutes. This quick boiling step will make sure the broccoli is tender yet still crisp. After blanching, drain and set aside.

3. Mix the Creamy Sauce:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are well blended. This sauce is the heart of the casserole, giving it a smooth and rich texture.

4. Assemble the Casserole:

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with the butter. Spread the cooked rice evenly at the bottom of the dish. Next, layer the cooked chicken over the rice. Then, arrange the blanched broccoli on top of the chicken. Pour the creamy sauce mixture over the entire dish, making sure it covers everything evenly. Use a spatula to smooth out the sauce.

5. Add the Cheesy Topping:

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the sauce-covered ingredients. This cheese layer will melt into a golden, bubbly topping as the casserole bakes.

6. Crusty Cracker Finish:

In a small bowl, crush the Ritz crackers (or any preferred crackers) and sprinkle them over the cheese layer. This adds a crunchy contrast to the creamy texture.

7. Bake:

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and the crackers are golden brown. If you prefer an extra crispy top, you can broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes—just keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

8. Serve:

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and added flavor. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting dish with family or friends!

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Casserole:

Use Fresh Ingredients:

For the best results, use fresh broccoli rather than frozen. Fresh broccoli retains a better texture and flavor after baking. Similarly, if you have leftover rotisserie chicken, it’s a great way to save time and add a deeper flavor to the dish.
Add Extra Vegetables:

If you want to boost the nutritional value, feel free to add more vegetables like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas. These vegetables add color and nutrition to the casserole.
Cheese Choices:

While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with other types of cheese like mozzarella, Gruyère, or a blend of Parmesan for a gourmet twist. Each cheese will bring a unique flavor to your casserole.
Healthier Alternatives:

For a lighter version, substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt and use low-fat cheese. Additionally, you can use brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber.
Leftover Storage:

This casserole keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cover the dish with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.

Why This Chicken Casserole is a Must-Try:

This Chicken Casserole with Broccoli is not only tasty but also incredibly versatile. It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or rice, making it a budget-friendly meal option. Additionally, it’s a kid-friendly dish that sneaks in vegetables without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or meal prepping, this casserole is a true crowd-pleaser.

Nutritional Information:

Calories per serving: 400-450 (depending on portion size)
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 4g

Variations of Chicken Casserole:

Feel free to customize this recipe to fit your family’s tastes:

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy version.
Italian Style: Substitute cheddar with mozzarella and Parmesan. Add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning and top with marinara sauce before baking.
Mexican Twist: Swap the cheddar cheese for a Mexican cheese blend, add black beans, and sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving.

Pairing Suggestions:

This creamy chicken casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed green beans. If you’re hosting a larger meal, consider serving it with a warm soup like tomato basil or a light appetizer such as bruschetta.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q: Can I freeze this Chicken Casserole?

A: Yes! Assemble the casserole without baking, cover it tightly with aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?

A: Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. However, be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.

Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?

A: Substitute regular crackers with gluten-free crackers and use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup.

Conclusion

This easy Chicken Casserole with Broccoli and Creamy Sauce is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. With minimal prep time and wholesome ingredients, you can create a delicious, hearty meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re a busy parent, a beginner cook, or someone who loves home-cooked meals, this recipe is for you. Give it a try, and it might just become your new go-to dish!