If you're on the hunt for a comforting, flavor-packed meal that's as easy to make as it is to devour, this Cheesy Herb Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is the ticket. Combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a luscious cheese sauce, it’s a one-dish wonder that brings everyone to the table in a hurry.
Chicken breasts are the protein powerhouse here, providing a juicy and tender foundation when seasoned and seared just right. Broccoli florets add a pop of color and a healthy crunch, balancing out the richness of the cheese sauce. Olive oil helps in getting that golden-brown crust on the chicken, locking in flavors. To bring it all together, butter and all-purpose flour form a roux, creating a creamy base when combined with milk. The sharpness of cheddar cheese and the nutty undertones of parmesan cheese create a decadent sauce, perfectly seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, and fresh thyme leaves. Finally, a topping of breadcrumbs and parsley adds a delightful crunch and freshness.
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad of mixed greens, a tangy vinaigrette, and a crusty baguette to soak up any leftover cheese sauce. A glass of crisp white wine would complement the dish perfectly, making for a cozy dinner that feels like a special occasion.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, take your chicken breasts and season them with a pinch of salt and pepper on both sides. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it's hot, place the chicken in the skillet. Cook each side for about 5 minutes until they're golden brown. Don't worry about cooking them through at this stage; they'll finish cooking in the oven. Remove them from the skillet and let them cool a bit before cutting them into bite-sized chunks.
Next, let's get that cheese sauce going. In a medium pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and stir continuously for about a minute to cook off the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in 2 cups of milk, making sure there are no lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens, which should take just a few minutes. Stir in 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese. Add in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves. Stir until you have a smooth, cheesy sauce.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken pieces, 2 cups of broccoli florets, and the cheese sauce you just made. Mix until everything is well coated. Transfer this mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs on top, followed by 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake it for about 25 minutes. You'll know it's done when the top is golden and the sides are bubbling. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving — the anticipation makes it taste even better!
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