This Chicken Broccoli Casserole is a comforting and healthy dish that combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and a creamy sauce, all topped with seasoned breadcrumbs and cheese. It’s a simple and delicious meal perfect for weeknight dinners, and it’s easy to scale for larger gatherings.
Ingredients:
1x Recipe (serves 4-6):
- 1 package cooked chicken tenders, chopped
- 10 ounces cooked broccoli (steamed or blanched)
- ¾ cup nonfat evaporated milk
- ½ cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 cup shredded reduced-fat Colby Jack cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2 x 10¾-ounce cans fat-free cream of chicken soup
- 2½ tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Broccoli
If your chicken tenders aren’t pre-cooked, cook them in a skillet or bake them until they’re fully cooked through. Once cooked, chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Steam or blanch the broccoli until tender, then set both aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the two cans of fat-free cream of chicken soup, nonfat evaporated milk, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
In the prepared baking dish, layer the chopped cooked chicken and the cooked broccoli evenly. Pour the creamy sauce mixture over the chicken and broccoli, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Breadcrumbs
Sprinkle the shredded Colby Jack cheese over the top of the casserole. Then, evenly distribute the seasoned breadcrumbs and the grated Parmesan cheese over the cheese layer.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, the breadcrumbs are golden brown, and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting, flavorful meal with your favorite side dishes.
Cooking Notes:
- Chicken Tenders: You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for convenience.
- Broccoli: For added texture, roast the broccoli in the oven before adding it to the casserole.
- Seasoned Breadcrumbs: If you don’t have seasoned breadcrumbs, you can use plain breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasoning or herbs like thyme and oregano.
Variations:
1. Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Casserole
For an extra cheesy version, add ½ cup of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese to the casserole along with the Colby Jack.
2. Low-Carb Chicken Broccoli Casserole
To make this dish low-carb, skip the breadcrumbs and top the casserole with crushed pork rinds for a crunchy topping.
3. Chicken and Rice Casserole
Add 1 cup of cooked brown or white rice to the casserole for a more filling dish. Just mix the rice into the chicken and broccoli before adding the creamy sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze this casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. If freezing after baking, allow it to cool completely before freezing. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
Q: Can I use fresh chicken breast instead of tenders?
A: Yes, you can use cooked, shredded chicken breast or any cooked chicken in place of the chicken tenders.
Q: What can I use instead of Colby Jack cheese?
A: You can substitute Colby Jack cheese with any mild melting cheese like cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack.
This Chicken Broccoli Casserole is a delicious and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. With tender chicken, wholesome broccoli, and a creamy sauce topped with cheese and breadcrumbs, this casserole is sure to be a hit with the whole family. Whether you’re making it ahead, freezing it, or serving it fresh out of the oven, it’s a comforting and flavorful dish that’s hard to resist.
Enjoy this easy-to-make recipe, and feel free to try the different variations to suit your taste!