Chicken-Broccoli Elegant Casserole Recipe
Total Time: 55 minutes | Prep Time: 25 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6 | Calories per Serving: 708.2
If you’re looking for a comforting and flavorful dish that can be whipped up in under an hour, this Chicken-Broccoli Elegant Casserole is the perfect option. It’s a family-friendly recipe that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, all topped with a crunchy, golden layer of buttery cracker crumbs. Ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this casserole is as versatile as it is delicious. It also works well with leftover turkey, making it a great option for repurposing holiday meats. The preparation includes cooking the broccoli until just tender, ensuring it retains its vibrant color and texture even after baking.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh broccoli florets | 4–5 cups |
| Frozen broccoli | 2 cups |
| Mayonnaise | 1 cup |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Parmesan cheese | ½ cup |
| Curry powder (optional) | ¼ teaspoon |
| Celery | 1 stalk |
| Onion | 1 medium |
| Garlic (optional) | 1 clove |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Cheddar cheese (grated) | 1 cup |
| Cracker crumbs (buttered) | 2–3 cups |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
| Cooked chicken (or turkey) | 1½ cups, shredded |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 708.2 |
| Total Fat | 45.4g |
| Saturated Fat | 18.7g |
| Cholesterol | 122.5mg |
| Sodium | 1304.4mg |
| Carbohydrates | 46g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.1g |
| Sugars | 4.3g |
| Protein | 30.6g |
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking the casserole.
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Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 13 x 9-inch baking pan with butter to prevent sticking and ensure the casserole bakes evenly.
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Cook the Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch it until just firm-tender (about 4-5 minutes). Avoid overcooking, as you want the broccoli to retain some bite when baked. Drain well if any excess water remains.
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Sauté the Vegetables: In a medium-sized skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, celery, and garlic (if using), and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
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Prepare the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, soup, lemon juice, cooked chicken (or turkey), Parmesan cheese, curry powder (optional), salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated into a creamy mixture.
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Assemble the Casserole:
- Start by layering the cooked broccoli florets at the bottom of your prepared baking dish.
- Evenly spread the chicken and mayonnaise mixture over the broccoli.
- Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the chicken layer.
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Top with Cracker Crumbs: Gently scatter the buttered cracker crumbs over the top of the casserole, ensuring the surface is well covered. The crumbs will bake up golden and crisp, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy layers beneath.
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Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and golden brown on top. The cheese should be melted, and the crumbs should be a perfect golden color.
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Serve: Once baked to perfection, remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to portion out.
Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken-Broccoli Elegant Casserole:
- Chicken Substitute: If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, leftover turkey works beautifully in this recipe, making it an ideal post-Thanksgiving dish.
- Broccoli Variations: Feel free to use frozen broccoli florets in place of fresh if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before using to prevent excess moisture.
- Extra Cheese: For a more indulgent version, consider adding more cheese, either Parmesan or a blend of your favorites, to the sauce for extra richness.
- Cracker Crumbs: For a bit of added flavor, try using seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed crackers with herbs. You can even add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or herbs on top for extra taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
The Chicken-Broccoli Elegant Casserole is a delightful combination of savory flavors, making it the perfect dish to serve during busy evenings or as a cozy weekend dinner. The tender chicken or turkey, complemented by the mildness of the broccoli and the creamy, cheesy sauce, offers a well-rounded meal that satisfies both kids and adults alike. The buttery cracker crumbs on top add a crunchy texture that balances the smoothness of the casserole, making each bite a comforting delight.
Give this easy-to-make casserole a try for your next family dinner or casual get-together—it’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser!
