Cheesy Chicken And Broccoli
A creamy, cheesy chicken and broccoli casserole with crispy onion rings, perfect for a comforting family dinner or gathering, packed with rich flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Oil a large casserole dish and arrange cooked, chopped broccoli in it.
- In a blender, mix cream cheese, salt, milk, half of the Cheddar cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Pour half of the cheese mixture over the broccoli.
- Layer cooked, chopped chicken on top of the broccoli and cheese sauce.
- Layer French fried onion rings over the chicken.
- Pour the remaining cheese mixture over the onion rings.
- Top with the remaining Cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes, uncovered.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can substitute the broccoli with steamed cauliflower or mixed vegetables based on your preference. If you're short on time, using rotisserie chicken can speed up the prep. For added flavor, sprinkle some garlic powder or paprika into the cheese mixture. This dish is reminiscent of other comforting American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy chicken and broccoli dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside rice or quinoa. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top before serving can enhance the presentation and flavor. It’s a great option for family dinners or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Chicken And Broccoli contains roughly 419 calories, with 17g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (35% of the Daily Value), protein (33% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1542mg per serving (67% 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 for this recipe. Just ensure it's blanched for a few minutes to soften it slightly before layering it in the casserole. This will help achieve the perfect texture when baked.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated thoroughly.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free French fried onion rings. Also, check the labels of the cream cheese and other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy this cheesy delight without gluten.
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).