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Casseroles have long held a special place in the hearts and homes of families across the globe. These one-dish wonders are renowned for their comforting qualities, providing warmth and satisfaction with every bite. The Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bliss Casserole embodies this essence perfectly, combining tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheese into a dish that is as delightful to eat as it is to prepare. This family-friendly recipe is not just about comfort; it’s also a way to sneak in some nutritious ingredients that everyone will love.

Easy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

Savor the warmth of home-cooked comfort with the Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bliss Casserole. This delightful dish combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheese, making it a hit for the entire family. Easy to prepare, it’s a versatile one-dish wonder perfect for busy weeknights. With its crispy topping and nutritious ingredients, this casserole is not only satisfying but also great for leftovers. Discover a recipe that will make mealtimes special!

Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken is an excellent choice)

3 cups fresh broccoli florets (or use frozen broccoli, thawed and well-drained)

1 cup cooked rice (choose white or brown according to your preference)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus a little extra for topping)

1 cup cream of chicken soup (homemade or store-bought)

1/2 cup milk (substitute with chicken broth for a richer flavor)

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to your taste)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for a crispy topping)

1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for toasting breadcrumbs)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.

    Cook the Broccoli: If you're using fresh broccoli, steam the florets for about 5 minutes or until they are vibrant green and slightly tender. For frozen broccoli, simply ensure it's fully thawed and all excess moisture is drained.

      Combine the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and shredded cheddar cheese (remember to set aside a small handful of cheese for later). Then, add the cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything together until well combined and evenly mixed.

        Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch (or a similar sized) baking dish with cooking spray or a little oil. Pour the chicken and broccoli mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly for consistent baking.

          Make the Topping: If you’re using breadcrumbs, mix them with olive oil in a small bowl until they’re lightly coated. This will help achieve a golden, crunchy topping as it bakes.

            Add the Finishing Touches: Evenly sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. If you are using breadcrumbs, scatter them on top for added texture and crunch.

              Bake to Perfection: Cover the casserole with a sheet of aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes. After this, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.

                Cool and Serve: Once the casserole is out of the oven, allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the casserole hold together better when you serve it.

                  Enjoy Your Meal: Serve the delicious Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bliss Casserole while it’s hot! Pair it with a crisp side salad or some warm crusty bread for a complete meal.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 50 minutes | 6 servings