Packed with flavorful ingredients and topped with melted cheese, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving some comfort food, this casserole will surely become a staple in your recipe collection. In this blog post, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of preparing this mouthwatering dish, along with helpful tips and answers to frequently asked questions.
How to Prepare Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole:
This h2 heading will provide a brief overview of the recipe preparation process.
Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole:
Before diving into the directions, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need:
– 1/4 Teaspoon Thyme
– 1/2 Teaspoon Basil
– 5 Cups Chopped Fresh Broccoli
– 1 Teaspoon Onion Powder
– 8 oz. Cream Cheese, Softened
– 1 Cup Shredded Cheese (Mozzarella or any preferred kind)
– 3 Cups Diced Cooked Chicken Breast
– 1/2 Cup Mayonnaise
– 1/4 Teaspoon Smoked Paprika
– 1 Cup Sour Cream
– 1 Teaspoon Garlic Salt
– 1/4 Teaspoon Rosemary
Directions for Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole:
Follow these simple steps to create your cheesy masterpiece:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients except the shredded cheese. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking pan, ensuring it spreads evenly.
4. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top of the casserole, providing a deliciously melty finish.
5. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as you want the cheese to just start browning. For an extra touch, you can broil the casserole for a couple of minutes at the end to achieve a golden crust.
Tips for Perfecting Your Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole:
1. To save time, you can use leftover cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken.
2. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Gouda, to customize the flavor to your liking.
3. For added nutrition, you can include other vegetables like bell peppers or cauliflower alongside the broccoli.
4. Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing it with the other ingredients for easy blending.
5. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli if fresh is not available. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before incorporating it into the casserole.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to three months. When reheating, allow the casserole to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking it again until heated through.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
It can be! Ensure that the ingredients you use, such as the cream cheese, shredded cheese, and mayonnaise, are gluten-free. Double-check the labels or choose certified gluten-free products to accommodate dietary needs.
Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
Ingredients
- 1/4 Teaspoon Thyme
- 1/2 Teaspoon Basil
- 5 Cups Chopped Fresh Broccoli
- 1 Teaspoon Onion Powder
- 8 oz. Cream Cheese Softened
- 1 Cup Shredded Cheese I used Mozzarella, but you can use any kind
- 3 Cups Diced Cooked Chicken Breast
- 1/2 Cup Mayonnaise
- 1/4 Teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- 1 Cup Sour Cream
- 1 Teaspoon Garlic Salt
- 1/4 Teaspoon Rosemary
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients except shredded cheese.
- Pour mixture into a 9x13 pan and top with 1 cup shredded cheese.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until cheese just starts to brown. (I broiled mine for a couple minutes at the end.)
