Creamy Broccoli-Chicken Casserole
Creamy broccoli and chicken casserole combines tender cooked chicken, fresh broccoli, and melted cheddar in a comforting, cheesy dish perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 tsp margarine ⓘ
- 1/2 cup diced onion ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon plus 1 1/2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup skim milk ⓘ
- 2 ounces Cheddar cheese, shredded
- dash of salt and pepper ⓘ
- 6 ounces skinned, boned, cooked chicken, diced ⓘ
- 1 cup cooked, chopped broccoli ⓘ
- 1/2 cup cooked macaroni shells ⓘ
- 1/2 cup chopped, drained canned pimentos ⓘ
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- In a small saucepan, heat margarine until bubbly and hot; add diced onion and sauté briefly without browning.
- Add flour and stir quickly to thoroughly combine; remove from heat and gradually stir in skim milk, stirring until thoroughly blended.
- Return to heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until sauce is thick and creamy, about 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in salt and pepper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cooked, chopped broccoli, diced cooked chicken, cooked macaroni shells, and drained pimentos.
- Mix the prepared sauce with the vegetable and meat mixture until well coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider using whole milk or adding a dollop of sour cream. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken makes a great substitute for cooked chicken. Fresh broccoli can be used instead of frozen, but make sure to blanch it first. Add spices like garlic powder or paprika to enhance the flavor, and browse more American recipes for inspiration.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy broccoli-chicken casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Cheesy Hash Browns (Great Dish For Sunday Brunch) for a hearty breakfast or brunch option. You can also enjoy it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the microwave until heated through, or cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until bubbling. This dish can also be frozen for longer storage, though the texture may vary slightly upon reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Broccoli-Chicken Casserole contains roughly 576 calories, with 17g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (40% of the Daily Value), protein (33% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2519mg per serving (110% 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 prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?
If you prefer a different cheese, mozzarella or Monterey Jack work well as substitutes for Cheddar. They will melt nicely and add a different flavor profile. You can also try a blend of cheeses for added depth.
Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or peas. Just ensure that they are cooked beforehand to avoid excess moisture in the casserole. Adding veggies not only boosts the nutrition but also enhances the 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).