Broccoli And Chicken Dish
A hearty casserole combining tender chicken, broccoli, and melted Cheddar cheese, topped with crunchy croutons, perfect for family dinners and comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the chicken, then cool and remove the bones.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish.
- Cut broccoli into pieces and spread evenly in the dish.
- Cut cooked chicken into pieces and layer on top of the broccoli.
- In a bowl, mix the cream of celery soup, cream of chicken soup, and mayonnaise. Pour this mixture over the chicken and broccoli.
- Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese on top of the soup mixture.
- Melt the butter and pour it over the croutons.
- Layer the croutons on top of the cheese.
- Bake in the oven for 30 to 45 minutes until heated through and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider seasoning the chicken while boiling with herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can substitute the sharp Cheddar cheese with mozzarella for a milder taste or use a dairy-free mayonnaise if you're looking for a lighter version. Adding some garlic powder to the soup mixture can enhance the dish further.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It can also be served with rice or quinoa to soak up the creamy sauce. Consider offering a side of Braised Celery Wedges for a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will keep the croutons crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli And Chicken Dish contains roughly 1335 calories, with 31g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 103g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (62% of the Daily Value), calcium (47% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2208mg per serving (96% 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 frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used as a convenient substitute. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the casserole to prevent excess moisture, which can make the dish watery.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the soup mixture. You could also sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the top before baking for an extra kick.
What can I use instead of croutons?
If you want a gluten-free option, substitute croutons with crushed gluten-free crackers or toasted nuts for crunch. Alternatively, you could use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter topping that still offers that satisfying crispiness.
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).