Ultimate Comfort Food: Easy Recipe for Broccoli Chicken Cheese Casserole That Everyone Will Love
#### Recipe for Broccoli Chicken Cheese CasseroleIf you're looking for a delicious and comforting dish that combines the goodness of broccoli, tender chicke……
#### Recipe for Broccoli Chicken Cheese Casserole
If you're looking for a delicious and comforting dish that combines the goodness of broccoli, tender chicken, and creamy cheese, then this recipe for broccoli chicken cheese casserole is just what you need. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
#### Ingredients
To make this delightful casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
- **2 cups of cooked chicken** (shredded or diced)
- **2 cups of fresh broccoli florets** (steamed or blanched)
- **1 cup of cooked rice or pasta** (optional)
- **1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup**
- **1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese**
- **1/2 cup of milk**
- **1 teaspoon of garlic powder**
- **1 teaspoon of onion powder**
- **Salt and pepper to taste**
- **1/2 cup of breadcrumbs** (for topping)
- **2 tablespoons of melted butter** (for topping)
#### Instructions
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and gets that perfect golden top.
2. **Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli**: If you haven't already, cook your chicken and steam or blanch the broccoli. You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
3. **Mix the Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, cooked rice or pasta (if using), cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
4. **Add the Cheese**: Fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the mixture. This will give your casserole a creamy texture.
5. **Transfer to a Baking Dish**: Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly so that it cooks uniformly.
6. **Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs**: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer. This will create a delightful crunch once baked.
7. **Bake**: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
8. **Serve**: Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread.
#### Why You'll Love This Recipe
This recipe for broccoli chicken cheese casserole is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers, or even switch up the cheese for a different flavor profile. It's a one-dish meal that provides a great balance of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates, making it a wholesome option for any day of the week.
Whether you're cooking for a large family or just yourself, this casserole is a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers.
In conclusion, if you're in search of a comforting, cheesy, and nutritious meal, look no further than this recipe for broccoli chicken cheese casserole. It's sure to become a favorite in your household, bringing warmth and satisfaction to your dinner table. Enjoy!