Broccoli And Chicken Casserole(Good!)
A comforting baked casserole combining tender chicken, broccoli, and creamy cheese, topped with crunchy crackers and buttery margarine. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it offers a rich, savory flavor with a crispy topping that appeals to all ages and is easy to prepare ahead of time.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a baking dish.
- Spread thawed broccoli evenly in the bottom of the dish.
- Add cooked and chopped chicken as the next layer over the broccoli.
- In a saucepan, heat cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, Velveeta cheese, and lemon juice until the cheese is melted.
- Pour the cheese mixture evenly over the broccoli and chicken layers.
- Sprinkle crushed Town House crackers over the top.
- Melt the margarine and drizzle it over the crushed crackers.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until bubbly, hot, and the top is browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the cheese mixture. If you don't have Velveeta, any melty cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack can work. For a crunchier topping, use crushed potato chips instead of crackers. Make sure to fully thaw the broccoli to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables for added nutrition. For a twist, consider serving it with a side of hot barbecued chicken wings for a fun gathering. It’s a great option for potlucks or family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover broccoli and chicken casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but be careful not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli And Chicken Casserole(Good!) contains roughly 443 calories, with 12g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 463mg per serving (20% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli! Just steam it lightly before adding it to the casserole to ensure it cooks through in the oven. This will also help retain its vibrant color and crunch.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the cheese mixture. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes over the top before baking for an extra kick.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Assemble the dish but do not bake it. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).