Chicken-Broccoli Casserole(Microwave)
A hearty microwave chicken-broccoli casserole combining savory stuffing, melted cheese, and tender chicken for a comforting family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lay Stove Top stuffing crumbs in the bottom of a casserole dish.
- Pour melted butter and hot water over the stuffing.
- Break cooked chicken into pieces and layer over the stuffing.
- Thaw frozen broccoli in hot water for five minutes, then drain.
- Layer the drained broccoli over the chicken.
- Mix cream of chicken soup with one cup of milk and pour over the casserole.
- Top with shredded cheese and bread crumbs.
- Microwave the casserole for 20 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the cream of chicken soup mixture. If you're looking for a healthier option, swap the Stove Top stuffing for a homemade bread crumb mixture or use a low-sodium version. You can also add some sautéed garlic or onions for added flavor. For a twist, try adding some cooked artichoke hearts from Artichoke And Mushroom Soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chicken-Broccoli Casserole alongside a fresh green salad or some crusty bread for a well-rounded meal. It also pairs beautifully with Aunt Em'S Wild Rice for a comforting side dish. For a festive touch, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or chives on top before serving to brighten the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Chicken-Broccoli Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions on medium power until heated through, about 2-3 minutes. If reheating the entire casserole, cover it with a microwave-safe lid to retain moisture and heat for 5-7 minutes, checking periodically.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken-Broccoli Casserole(Microwave) contains roughly 1049 calories, with 24g protein, 121g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (48% of the Daily Value), iron (47% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1403mg per serving (61% 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 for 3-4 minutes until tender before layering it in the casserole. This will ensure it cooks properly and retains its vibrant color and crunch. Adjust the timing in your recipe as needed since fresh broccoli may take less time to heat through.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you need a substitute for cream of chicken soup, you can use homemade versions or opt for a can of cream of mushroom soup. Additionally, you can make a simple roux with butter, flour, and chicken broth, then add cream to achieve a similar consistency and flavor.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just cover it tightly with foil. When ready to bake, you may need to add an extra few minutes to the cooking time since it will be chilled.
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).