Chicken Broccoli For A Banquet
A hearty and comforting chicken and broccoli casserole with creamy mushroom and chicken soups, perfect for feeding a crowd with flavorful rice and cheesy topping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cooked chicken, cooked broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, cooked rice, chicken broth, and milk together.
- Pour the mixture into buttered baking dishes or cake pans.
- Bake at 350°F (325°F in glass pan) for 1 hour.
- Cover the casserole with cheese slices or shredded cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using leftover rotisserie chicken instead of plain cooked chicken. If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute half of the cream soups with Greek yogurt or a homemade white sauce. To save time, use frozen broccoli instead of fresh, and cook it for just a few minutes to retain its vibrant color and nutrients. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Broccoli dish serves well as a main course for gatherings. Complement it with a light, refreshing side salad or some crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with steamed vegetables or a fruit salad. It’s a great addition to any banquet table alongside other comforting dishes like Drop Chicken 'N' Dumplings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture. If it seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Broccoli For A Banquet contains roughly 465 calories, with 11g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), iron (33% of the Daily Value), and calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1129mg per serving (49% 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 cooked?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli, but you'll need to blanch it first. Cook the broccoli in boiling water for about 3 minutes before adding it to the casserole. This will help soften it and enhance the overall texture of the dish.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with an equal amount of homemade white sauce or even cream of celery soup. For a dairy-free option, consider using a plant-based cream soup made from cashews or coconut milk.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble all the ingredients in your baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
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).