Norma'S Chicken Casserole
A comforting chicken casserole combining tender chicken, broccoli, creamy sauce, and sharp cheese, topped with crunchy bread crumbs—perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put cooked and drained frozen broccoli in a baking dish.
- Place cooked and boned chicken breasts over the broccoli.
- Mix mayonnaise, curry powder, cream of chicken soup, and cream together.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken.
- Sprinkle shredded sharp cheese on top.
- Add buttered bread crumbs over the cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream to the sauce mixture. If you don't have curry powder, a pinch of paprika or cumin can offer a different flavor profile. You can also substitute the shredded cheese with mozzarella for a milder taste. For a heartier version, add some cooked rice or quinoa to the bottom of the baking dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with a light lemon chicken dish or your favorite bread for dipping. This dish also works great for potlucks or family gatherings, as it's both comforting and filling.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Norma'S Chicken Casserole contains roughly 545 calories, with 28g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (99% of the Daily Value), protein (57% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 616mg per serving (27% 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 or blanch it until it's slightly tender before adding it to the baking dish. This will ensure that it cooks properly along with the casserole.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make this casserole healthier, consider using low-fat mayonnaise and reduced-fat cheese. You can also incorporate more vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to boost its nutritional value while keeping the flavors intact.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with foil. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
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).