Cheesy Chicken Casserole
Cheesy Chicken Casserole is a comforting dish featuring tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a rich and creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this hearty casserole is sure to please both kids and adults alike with its delectable flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut broccoli spears into bite-size pieces and place in the bottom of a greased crock-pot.
- In a saucepan, blend milk, cream cheese, salt, garlic salt, and Parmesan cheese over low heat until melted and smooth.
- Pour one cup of the sauce over the broccoli; top with sliced chicken.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of chicken broth or sour cream. You can substitute the frozen broccoli with fresh broccoli or even spinach for a different flavor. If you have leftover cooked chicken or turkey from a previous meal, this is an excellent way to use it up. Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Chicken Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread. For a complete meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or rice. You can also top it with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking for added crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk if the casserole seems dry. Cover with foil if using the oven to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Chicken Casserole contains roughly 272 calories, with 11g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1712mg per serving (74% 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, fresh broccoli can be used instead of frozen. Just make sure to steam or blanch the fresh florets briefly before adding them to the crock-pot to ensure they cook through by the end of the cooking time.
What type of chicken works best for this recipe?
Cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken are great options for this casserole. You can also use turkey slices if you prefer a lighter option, making it versatile for various occasions.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and then cook it in the crock-pot when you're ready. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if it's starting from a chilled state.
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).