Are you on the hunt for a hearty and satisfying dish that’s both delicious and nutritious? Look no further than this Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Casserole! Packed with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, creamy cheese, and a hint of lemon, this comforting casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Follow along to learn how to make this wholesome meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced
- 2 packages (10 ounces each) frozen broccoli cuts, cooked and drained
- 2 cans (10-3/4 ounces each) 98% fat-free cream of chicken soup
- 3/4 cup non-fat evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup Italian-flavored dry bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli: In a large bowl, combine the cooked and diced chicken with the cooked and drained broccoli cuts. Toss them together until evenly mixed.
- Mix the Sauce: In a smaller bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, non-fat evaporated milk, and lemon juice until well combined. Pour this creamy mixture over the chicken and broccoli mixture, stirring until everything is coated evenly.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the chicken and broccoli mixture evenly into the greased baking dish, ensuring it covers the bottom of the pan.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the chicken and broccoli mixture, distributing it evenly.
- Top with Bread Crumbs: In a separate bowl, combine the Italian-flavored dry bread crumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake to Perfection: Lightly spray the top of the casserole with cooking spray to help the breadcrumbs crisp up during baking. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: Approximately 280 kcal per serving
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Family Feast: Serve this hearty casserole as a main dish accompanied by a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal that everyone will love.
- Meal Prep Marvel: Prepare this casserole ahead of time and store it in individual portions for convenient lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- Freeze for Later: This casserole freezes well! Simply portion it into freezer-safe containers, label with the date, and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat with Ease: To reheat leftovers, place the desired portion in the microwave or oven until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to maintain moisture if needed.
Variations:
- Broccoli Cheddar Rice Casserole: Substitute cooked rice for the chicken for a vegetarian-friendly option. Mix cooked rice with broccoli, cheese, and sauce, then bake until bubbly.
- Mushroom Madness: Add sautéed mushrooms to the chicken and broccoli mixture for an earthy flavor boost.
- Spinach Surprise: Swap out the broccoli for chopped spinach and add a sprinkle of nutmeg for a spinach and cheese twist.
- Ham and Cheese Delight: Fold diced ham into the chicken and broccoli mixture for a classic combination.
- Tex-Mex Twist: Mix in canned green chilies, diced tomatoes, and Mexican cheese blend for a south-of-the-border flair.
- Bacon Lover’s Dream: Crumble cooked bacon into the chicken and broccoli mixture for a smoky and savory flavor explosion.
- Artichoke Spin: Add chopped canned or marinated artichoke hearts to the casserole for a tangy and sophisticated twist.
- Buffalo Chicken Bliss: Toss diced cooked chicken in buffalo sauce before mixing it with broccoli and cheese for a spicy kick.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Surprise: Fold chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the chicken and broccoli mixture for a burst of sweet and tangy flavor.
- Pesto Perfection: Swirl basil pesto into the creamy sauce for a vibrant and herbaceous touch.
- Cauliflower Creations: Replace broccoli with cauliflower florets or use a combination of both for a colorful and nutritious variation.
- Greek Goddess: Add kalamata olives, diced tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese to the casserole for a Mediterranean-inspired twist.
- Jalapeño Jack: Mix diced jalapeños and shredded pepper jack cheese into the chicken and broccoli mixture for a spicy and cheesy kick.
- Tuscan Treat: Incorporate roasted red peppers, spinach, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for a taste of Tuscany.
- Quinoa Crunch: Stir cooked quinoa into the chicken and broccoli mixture for added protein and texture.
- Smoked Gouda Sensation: Swap cheddar cheese for smoked gouda for a rich and smoky flavor profile.
- Applewood Chicken: Mix in diced apples and crumbled blue cheese for a unique sweet and savory combination.
- Caramelized Onion Concoction: Sauté caramelized onions and mix them into the casserole for a rich and sweet flavor boost.
- Herbaceous Havarti: Use dill Havarti cheese and sprinkle fresh dill over the top for a creamy and herbaceous finish.
- Maple Glazed Chicken: Drizzle maple syrup over the chicken before baking for a touch of sweetness that complements the savory flavors.
- Truffle Twist: Add a drizzle of truffle oil to the sauce for a luxurious and aromatic enhancement.
- Sausage Surprise: Brown Italian sausage and mix it with the chicken and broccoli for a hearty and flavorful variation.
- Mexican Fiesta: Add black beans, corn, diced green chilies, and shredded Mexican cheese blend for a Tex-Mex twist.
- Provencal Pleasure: Mix in diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, and herbes de Provence for a taste of the French countryside.
- Sriracha Symphony: Swirl sriracha sauce into the creamy sauce for a spicy and tangy kick that packs a punch.
These creative variations will take your Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Casserole to new heights, offering a diverse range of flavors to suit any palate. Get adventurous in the kitchen and experiment with different ingredients to create your own signature masterpiece!
FAQs:
- Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
- Yes, fresh broccoli can be used. Simply steam or blanch it until tender before adding it to the casserole.
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Absolutely! Try swapping cheddar for Swiss, Monterey Jack, or Gouda for a different flavor profile.
- What can I serve with this casserole?
- This casserole pairs well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or mashed potatoes.
- Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
- Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers in place of regular breadcrumbs.
- Can I use whole milk instead of evaporated milk?
- Yes, whole milk can be used, but the casserole may be slightly richer.
- Can I add additional spices to the sauce?
- Absolutely! Feel free to add garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika for extra flavor.
- Can I make this casserole in advance?
- Yes, assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
- Cream of mushroom soup or cream of broccoli soup can be used as alternatives.
- Can I add cooked pasta to this casserole?
- Yes, cooked pasta such as penne or rotini can be added for a heartier dish.
- Can I use leftover cooked chicken instead of raw chicken breasts?
- Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken works well in this recipe. Just dice it and proceed with the recipe as directed.
Indulge in the warm and comforting flavors of this Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Casserole, and treat yourself to a satisfying meal that’s both tasty and wholesome. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this casserole is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.