Ultimate Comfort: Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
Introduction
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can match the warm, hearty satisfaction of a chicken and broccoli casserole. This timeless classic brings together tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, all baked to golden perfection. It’s a meal that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you need a little extra coziness.
Ingredients
To create this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups of fresh or frozen broccoli florets
- 1 can of condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
- 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup of milk
- 1 cup of crushed Ritz crackers (or any buttery cracker)
- 2 tablespoons of melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp, then drain. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain well.
- Mix the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and milk. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken and broccoli to the bowl and mix until everything is well coated with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter, mixing until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Add the Topping: Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
Conclusion
This chicken and broccoli casserole is the epitome of comfort food—simple to make, packed with flavor, and sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Serve it with a side of rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal that warms the heart and satisfies the soul.
I hope this friendly synopsis gives you a delicious start to your next meal! If you have any other recipes or dishes you’d like to explore, just let me know. Enjoy your cooking!