Save A comforting, creamy casserole featuring tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a golden cheddar cheese topping—perfect for a family dinner or potluck.
I remember making this bake for the first time on a chilly weeknight, and it quickly became a staple at our dinner table—everyone loves the blend of tender chicken and golden cheddar.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken breast: 2 cups, diced or shredded
- Fresh broccoli florets: 3 cups
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons
- All-purpose flour: 2 tablespoons
- Whole milk: 1 cup
- Low-sodium chicken broth: 1/2 cup
- Dijon mustard: 1 teaspoon
- Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Onion powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Sharp cheddar cheese: 1 1/2 cups shredded (divided)
- Panko breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): 1/4 teaspoon
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Instructions
- Prepare oven and dish:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Cook broccoli:
- Steam or blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until just tender and bright green. Drain and set aside.
- Make roux:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly.
- Make sauce:
- Gradually add the milk and chicken broth, whisking to prevent lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Flavor sauce:
- Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat.
- Add cheese:
- Add 1 cup of cheddar cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
- Combine main ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, blanched broccoli, and cheese sauce. Mix well.
- Fill baking dish:
- Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Top with cheese:
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese over the top.
- Prepare topping:
- In a small bowl, toss panko breadcrumbs with olive oil (and red pepper flakes, if using), then sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake:
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbling and the top is golden brown.
- Rest and serve:
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Save There's nothing like gathering the family around the table and serving up a bubbly, cheesy casserole—everyone always goes back for seconds!
Make It Your Own
Add cooked rice or quinoa for a heartier casserole, or toss in extra veggies like sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers.
Pairing Suggestions
This bake pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad or a glass of Chardonnay to balance the richness.
Allergen Notes
This dish contains milk and wheat; be sure to check all packaged ingredients for possible hidden allergens if you have sensitivities.
Save This comforting bake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and makes tasty leftovers for lunch the next day.
Kitchen Guide
- → How do you ensure broccoli stays tender but crisp?
Blanch broccoli in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then drain immediately to keep its bright color and slightly crisp texture.
- → Can I substitute chicken with another protein?
Yes, cooked turkey or rotisserie chicken are great alternatives that work well with the creamy cheddar sauce.
- → What is the best way to avoid a soggy topping?
Toss panko breadcrumbs with olive oil before sprinkling over the casserole; this helps them crisp up nicely during baking.
- → How can I make the sauce thicker?
Make a roux by cooking butter and flour together before gradually whisking in milk and broth. Cook until the sauce thickens before adding cheese.
- → Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, prepare and bake as directed, then cool completely before freezing. Reheat covered to maintain moisture and texture.
