Chicken And Broccoli Au Gratin
A creamy, cheesy chicken and broccoli gratin that combines tender cooked chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce. Perfect for comforting family dinners or entertaining guests, this dish offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures with a golden cheese topping that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the broccoli, drain, and set aside.
- Melt margarine in a saucepan, then stir in flour, salt, pepper, and dry mustard to form a roux.
- Gradually stir in chicken broth and milk, cooking over medium heat until the sauce thickens and bubbles.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Combine cooked chicken and broccoli with the cheese sauce.
- Transfer to a baking dish, top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and bake until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or using half-and-half instead of milk. You can substitute fresh broccoli for frozen if preferred; just blanch it briefly before adding. If you're short on cheddar, a mix of mozzarella and Gruyère can also work well. For added flavor, try incorporating garlic powder or fresh garlic into the roux.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken And Broccoli Au Gratin is perfect served with a simple side salad or crusty bread to balance the richness. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with roasted vegetables or a light quinoa dish. It also makes a great main course alongside a serving of the classic Au Gratin Potato Casserole (Texas-Style) for a comforting family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until heated through, covering with foil to prevent drying out. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven method will help retain the dish's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken And Broccoli Au Gratin contains roughly 618 calories, with 30g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (86% of the Daily Value), protein (61% of the Daily Value), and calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 961mg per serving (42% 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 other vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or bell peppers. Just ensure they are cooked and tender before adding to the sauce. This will add variety and nutrition to your dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Assemble the dish but do not bake it. Cover well and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a blend of cheeses. Just ensure the cheese melts well to maintain that creamy texture in the sauce.
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).