Comforting Chicken and Broccoli Cheesy Casserole: A Delicious Family Favorite

Warm your heart and nourish your soul with our comforting Chicken and Broccoli Cheesy Casserole recipe! Packed with tender chunks of chicken, vibrant broccoli florets, and a generous helping of gooey cheese, this dish is the epitome of comfort food perfection. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish to share with loved ones, this casserole is sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. So, preheat your oven and get ready to indulge in a culinary masterpiece that’s as delicious as it is comforting!

Ingredients:

• 3 cups cubed chicken
• 16 oz (1lb) bag of frozen broccoli
• 1 medium onion, diced (about 1 cup)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cube chicken bouillon (or 1 teaspoon bouillon powder)
• 1/2 cup water (optional, added to help disperse chicken flavoring)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 cup ricotta
• Bacon grease (for added flavor)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with bacon grease or cooking spray.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the cubed chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, steam the frozen broccoli according to package instructions until just tender. Drain any excess water.
5. In a small bowl, dissolve the chicken bouillon cube in 1/2 cup of water (if using).
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken and onions, steamed broccoli, shredded mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, pepper, sour cream, ricotta, and chicken bouillon mixture (if using). Mix until well combined.
7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the cheese is golden brown and melted.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Creamy Variation: For an even creamier texture, substitute cream cheese for the ricotta and increase the amount of sour cream.
• Spice It Up: Add a kick of heat by sprinkling some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the casserole mixture before baking.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a satisfying vegetarian version of this casserole.
• Crunchy Topping: For added texture, top the casserole with a layer of crushed crackers or breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

• Keto-Friendly: To make this casserole keto-friendly, replace the onion with diced shallots or omit it altogether to reduce the carb count. Use full-fat dairy products such as cream cheese, sour cream, and ricotta, and ensure the chicken bouillon used is free of added sugars.
• Low-Carb Option: Reduce the amount of onion and use it sparingly to lower the carb content. You can also substitute almond flour or coconut flour for the ricotta if desired.

In conclusion, our Chicken and Broccoli Cheesy Casserole is a wholesome and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a comforting weeknight dinner or planning a family gathering, this casserole is sure to please with its hearty flavors and creamy texture. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a recipe that you’ll turn to time and time again. So, gather your ingredients and prepare to delight your taste buds with every delicious bite of this irresistible casserole

Additional Tips and Serving Suggestions:

• Meal Prep Friendly: This Chicken and Broccoli Cheesy Casserole is ideal for meal prepping ahead of time. You can assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, simply bake it according to the instructions, adding a few extra minutes to account for the chilled ingredients.
• Customize Your Veggies: Don’t be afraid to get creative and customize the vegetable components of this casserole to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Try adding diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or even cauliflower florets for added variety and nutrition.
• Double the Batch: This recipe can easily be doubled to feed a larger crowd or to have leftovers for future meals. Simply adjust the quantities of ingredients accordingly and use a larger baking dish to accommodate the doubled recipe. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer-term storage.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Before serving, sprinkle the finished casserole with chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or thyme for a pop of color and freshness. Not only do fresh herbs add visual appeal, but they also impart a burst of flavor that enhances the overall dish.
• Serve with a Side Salad: Balance out the richness of the casserole by serving it alongside a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette. The refreshing contrast of the salad’s acidity and crunch pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of the casserole, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
• Make It a One-Pan Meal: Turn this casserole into a complete one-pan meal by adding cooked pasta or rice directly to the casserole mixture before baking. This not only simplifies meal prep but also ensures that all the components of your meal are conveniently baked together in one dish.

By incorporating these additional tips and serving suggestions into your Chicken and Broccoli Cheesy Casserole experience, you can elevate this classic dish to new heights of flavor and versatility. Whether enjoyed as a cozy family dinner or shared with friends at a potluck, this comforting casserole is sure to become a beloved favorite in your recipe repertoire.