Chicken, Broccoli, and Cheddar Casserole
Why Make This Recipe
Chicken, Broccoli, and Cheddar Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together simple ingredients in a delicious way. It’s perfect for a family dinner or when you want something quick yet satisfying. This recipe is not only easy to make, but it is also packed with protein and vegetables, making it a nutritious choice. Plus, who can resist the combination of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and melted cheese?
How to Make Chicken, Broccoli, and Cheddar Casserole
Ingredients
- 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
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
- In a bowl, combine the chicken, broccoli, condensed soup, sour cream, and black pepper.
- Mix in 1 cup of Cheddar cheese.
- Pour this mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish and top with the remaining Cheddar cheese.
- In another bowl, combine the bread crumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle this over the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, until bubbly and the cheese is melted.
How to Serve Chicken, Broccoli, and Cheddar Casserole
Serve the casserole hot, directly from the oven. It pairs well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread. You can also add extra toppings like sliced green onions or additional cheese if desired.
How to Store Chicken, Broccoli, and Cheddar Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container, and it can last for up to 2-3 months.
Tips to Make Chicken, Broccoli, and Cheddar Casserole
- To save time, you can use rotisserie chicken for the shredded chicken.
- Adjust the amount of Cheddar cheese to your liking; more cheese equals a cheesier dish!
- You can add other vegetables like carrots or peas for more variety.
Variation
For a lighter version, try using low-fat cream of chicken soup and reduced-fat sour cream. You can also replace Cheddar cheese with another cheese like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the mixture.
3. Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free bread crumbs and check that your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free to make this casserole suitable for a gluten-free diet.
