Description
Hearty chicken broccoli bake delivers comfort with creamy cheese sauce and tender protein. Crisp breadcrumb topping and wholesome ingredients create a satisfying meal for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups (480 ml) shredded chicken
- 4 cups (960 ml) broccoli florets
- 1 cup (240 ml) shredded cheddar cheese
Sauce Ingredients:
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup (240 ml) mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) lemon juice
Topping and Seasoning:
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) breadcrumbs
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Warm the oven to 350F (175C), preparing a welcoming environment for the casserole.
- Transform broccoli into tender-crisp florets through a quick 5-minute steam, then carefully drain and reserve.
- Craft a harmonious mixture by combining shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, creamy soup, tangy mayonnaise, bright lemon juice, and half the cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper for depth of flavor.
- Gently transfer the blended ingredients into a greased baking vessel, ensuring an even, smooth distribution.
- Crown the casserole with a lavish topping of remaining cheese and crunchy breadcrumbs, creating a textural masterpiece.
- Allow the dish to bake for 25-30 minutes, watching for a bubbling surface and golden-brown crown that signals perfect doneness.
- Pause briefly after removing from the oven, letting the casserole settle and meld its flavors before serving.
Notes
- Customize the protein by swapping chicken with turkey, tofu, or plant-based alternatives for dietary preferences.
- Boost nutrition by adding extra vegetables like cauliflower, spinach, or diced bell peppers to increase vegetable content.
- Reduce calories by using low-fat cream of chicken soup, Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, and whole wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier version.
- Enhance flavor with optional herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley sprinkled on top before baking for an aromatic twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 470 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg