Turkey Or Chicken Broccoli Casserole
A comforting casserole combining tender chicken or turkey with broccoli in a creamy, flavorful sauce topped with cheese, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the thawed and squeezed broccoli in the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Arrange the boned and skinned baked chicken or turkey pieces on top of the broccoli.
- Mix the cream of chicken soups, mayonnaise, curry powder, lemon juice, and sour cream or milk to make the sauce.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the broccoli and meat.
- Sprinkle the grated cheese over the top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or mayonnaise. You can also substitute the broccoli with other vegetables like cauliflower or spinach. If you're short on time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works great in this dish. Add a pinch more curry powder for a more pronounced flavor, reminiscent of dishes like Deep Dish Curried Chicken Pie.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier side, consider serving it with rice or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. It’s also a great dish to serve at potlucks or family gatherings, as it can easily be doubled.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in individual portions for a quick meal. This casserole also freezes well; just ensure it's tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Turkey Or Chicken Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 600 calories, with 26g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (257% of the Daily Value), iron (146% of the Daily Value), and calcium (69% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 609mg 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 broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli! Just steam it until tender, then squeeze out excess water before adding it to the casserole. Fresh broccoli will give a nice crunch and vibrant color to the dish.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking it straight from the fridge.
What cheese works best for this recipe?
While the recipe calls for grated cheese, you can use a variety of cheeses based on your preference. Cheddar is a great choice for its melting qualities, but mozzarella or Monterey Jack would also work well for a different flavor profile.
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).