If you're craving comfort food that's easy to whip up and brimming with flavor, this Classic Broccoli Chicken Casserole is a guaranteed winner. It's a hearty dish that combines tender chicken and fresh broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce, all topped with a crunchy cracker crust.
Cooked chicken: This is the protein backbone of the dish. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or any leftover chicken you have on hand.
Broccoli florets: Provides a fresh, slightly crunchy texture and a dose of green goodness. Briefly blanching them keeps their color vibrant.
Condensed cream of mushroom soup: Adds a rich, creamy base that ties the casserole together.
Sour cream: Enhances the creamy texture and adds a slight tang.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey, cheesy perfection on top.
Mayonnaise: Adds moisture and a smooth texture to the mix.
Garlic powder and onion powder: These seasonings add depth and flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
Black pepper: Provides a bit of heat and balances the flavors.
Crushed buttery crackers: Tops the casserole with a delightful crunch and buttery flavor.
Melted butter: Helps the cracker topping achieve that perfect golden-brown finish.
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside some garlic bread or a fluffy mashed potato. A crisp white wine or a light beer complements the creamy richness of the dish.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives your oven enough time to reach the right temperature while you prepare everything else. Next, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add your broccoli florets and cook them briefly for about 2-3 minutes. You want them to be bright green and slightly tender. Drain them and set them aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, condensed cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix it all together until it's well combined. Then, gently fold in the broccoli. Ensure everything is evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
Now, transfer this mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly so that it cooks uniformly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. In a small bowl, combine the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer.
Bake your casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. You'll know it's done when the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through. Let it cool slightly before serving so it sets up a bit.
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