Easy Broccoli And Chicken
A comforting casserole combining tender chicken, broccoli, and creamy soups, topped with cheese, perfect for a hearty family dinner or easy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a 9 x 13-inch pan, place thawed and drained broccoli (do not cook).
- Place the chicken breasts on top of the broccoli.
- Mix the cream of celery soup, cream of mushroom soup, and mayonnaise together.
- Pour the soup mixture over the chicken.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and season to taste.
- Cover the pan with foil and bake for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also substitute the frozen broccoli with fresh steamed broccoli for added crunch. If you want a different flavor profile, try adding garlic powder or a dash of lemon juice to the soup mixture. Make sure to season the chicken breasts well before layering them for enhanced flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of rice or a simple green salad to balance the richness. You might also serve it alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, consider adding a fruit salad or roasted vegetables to the table. Explore more American recipes for additional inspiration.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, cover the dish with foil to prevent the chicken from drying out. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Broccoli And Chicken contains roughly 559 calories, with 29g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 918mg per serving (40% 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 make sure to steam it lightly before adding it to the pan. This will ensure it cooks evenly while baking and retains its vibrant color and crunch.
What can I substitute for cream of celery soup?
If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can use cream of chicken or even a homemade white sauce. Just ensure the consistency is similar, and adjust the seasoning to your taste.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, covered. Just remember to add a little extra baking time if baking straight from the fridge to ensure everything is heated through.
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).