Chicken That'S Special
A comforting chicken and broccoli casserole with creamy curry-flavored sauce, topped with cheese and cracker crumbs, perfect for family dinners and those who enjoy savory, hearty dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli as directed on package until almost done.
- Cut each broccoli spear across the middle to make it easier to serve.
- Place the cooked broccoli in a large flat Pyrex baking dish.
- Boil chicken breasts in water until tender.
- Bone the chicken breasts and cut into pieces, then place on top of the broccoli.
- Combine undiluted cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, curry powder, shredded cheese, and lemon juice.
- Stir over heat until the cheese melts and the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and broccoli in the baking dish.
- Top with cracker crumbs mixed with melted margarine or buttered crumbs.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 to 45 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh broccoli instead of frozen, or try substituting Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter version. If you prefer a different cheese, feel free to swap out the sharp cheese for mozzarella or cheddar. Adjust the curry powder according to your taste preference, or try a different spice blend for a unique twist on this dish.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed rice to soak up the creamy sauce. Consider serving it alongside garlic bread for a comforting meal. For a festive touch, serve with a side of Trader Vic's Salad, which adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken and broccoli.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven will help maintain the crispy topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken That'S Special contains roughly 638 calories, with 35g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (255% of the Daily Value), iron (149% of the Daily Value), and protein (71% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 605mg per serving (26% 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 chicken instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked and tender. Fresh chicken may take a bit less time to boil than frozen, so keep an eye on them.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer a healthier option, you can make a homemade cream sauce using chicken broth and a roux of butter and flour. Alternatively, cream of mushroom soup can also be used for a different flavor profile.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with cooked chickpeas or tofu for protein. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to create a hearty vegetarian dish while keeping the creamy sauce for flavor.
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).