Chicken, Stuffing, and Broccoli Casserole Recipe ๐๐ฅฆ
Description: This hearty Chicken, Stuffing, and Broccoli Casserole may not win any beauty contests, but it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser. Despite its humble appearance, every time I bring this dish to a potluck, it vanishes within minutes, and I’m always bombarded with requests for the recipe. It’s a labor of love, taking some time to prepare, but the end result is well worth the effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving a comforting meal straight from the oven.
Recipe Category: Chicken Breast
Keywords: Chicken, Poultry, Vegetable, Meat, Weeknight, Oven, < 4 Hours
Servings: Variable
Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 4 |
| Poultry seasoning | 1 tbsp |
| Broccoli | 3 cups |
| Croutettes | 1 package |
| Cream of celery soup | 2 cans |
| Cheddar cheese, shredded | 2 cups |
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 243.5
- Total Fat: 15.7g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 67.6mg
- Sodium: 645.6mg
- Carbohydrates: 6.2g
- Fiber: 1.3g
- Sugar: 1.3g
- Protein: 19.4g
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Chicken:
- In a large pot, place the chicken breasts and cover them with enough water to submerge them completely.
- Add poultry seasoning to the water.
- Cook the chicken over medium heat until it’s very tender and easily comes away from the bones. This typically takes about 1 and 1/2 hours, ensuring that the chicken is fully cooked and tenderized.
-
Shred the Chicken:
- Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the pot, discarding any bones and skin.
- Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. You can use two forks or your fingers for this step. Set aside.
-
Save the Broth:
- Don’t discard the broth! Save it for later use in the recipe. It adds incredible flavor to the casserole.
-
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) to ensure it’s ready when your casserole is assembled.
-
Prepare the Casserole Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, broccoli florets, croutettes, and cream of celery soup.
- Mix everything together until well combined. The chicken will continue to shred as you mix.
- Gradually add the saved chicken broth to the mixture, stirring until everything is well moistened. You’ll need approximately 2 cups of broth, but adjust according to your preference for consistency.
-
Add the Cheese:
- Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed throughout the mixture. The cheese will add a deliciously creamy and savory flavor to the casserole.
-
Bake the Casserole:
- Transfer the prepared casserole mixture into a large baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbling around the edges.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Spoon generous portions onto plates and savor the irresistible combination of tender chicken, hearty broccoli, flavorful stuffing, and gooey melted cheese.
-
Optional Garnishes:
- Feel free to sprinkle some additional shredded cheddar cheese or chopped fresh herbs on top before serving for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.
-
Storage and Reheating:
- Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.
-
Share the Recipe:
- Prepare to become the star of every potluck gathering by sharing this beloved recipe with friends and family. Be prepared for endless requests for seconds and recipe inquiries!
This Chicken, Stuffing, and Broccoli Casserole may not be the most elegant dish on the table, but its comforting flavors and satisfying textures are sure to win over even the pickiest eaters. Whether served for a cozy family dinner or shared at a festive gathering, this beloved recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen repertoire. Enjoy every delicious bite! ๐ฝ๏ธ๐ฅ
