As the days grow shorter and the temperature drops, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty casserole to fill your home with comfort. One dish that never fails to please is the Chicken and Broccoli Casserole. This family-friendly favorite combines tender chicken tenderloin, fresh broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce in a perfectly balanced meal. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you need something quick, filling, and satisfying.
Why This Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is a Must-Try
Not only is this casserole easy to prepare, but it also features nutritious ingredients like fresh broccoli, lean chicken tenderloin, and whole grains from the cooked rice. The creamy mushroom sauce, paired with melted cheddar cheese, creates a rich and comforting flavor profile that even the pickiest eaters will love. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for leftovers for the next day, this dish hits the mark.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting casserole:
- Chicken tenderloin, diced for quick cooking and tenderness
- Fresh broccoli florets, bringing a burst of nutrients and color
- Cream of mushroom soup, providing the creamy base for the dish
- Shredded cheddar cheese, for that gooey, melty topping
- Cooked white rice, adding bulk and texture
- Onion, diced for added flavor depth
- Garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika, essential seasonings to enhance the dish
How to Make It
Let’s walk through the steps to create this simple yet flavorful casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the ingredients.
- In a large skillet, sauté diced onions until they turn translucent, releasing their sweetness.
- Add in the diced chicken tenderloin and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, followed by garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika for seasoning.
- Fold in the broccoli florets and cooked rice, ensuring everything is fully combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top generously with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly, creating a delicious crust.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serving Tips
This Chicken and Broccoli Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or a side of garlic bread. It’s a versatile dish that can easily be customized by adding other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. For those who prefer a bit of heat, sprinkling some crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking can add a nice kick.
Perfect for Leftovers
One of the best things about casseroles is that they often taste even better the next day. Simply store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and when you’re ready, reheat it in the oven or microwave for a comforting meal that’s just as good as the first serving.
Final Thoughts
The Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and comfort to the table. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and provides a healthy balance of protein, vegetables, and grains. Whether you’re whipping this up for a weeknight meal or prepping it ahead for busy days, this casserole is bound to become a staple in your household.
Try it tonight and enjoy the rich flavors and cozy vibes it brings to your dinner table!
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Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
Description
Warm up your kitchen with this comforting Chicken and Broccoli Casserole. Packed with tender chicken tenderloin, fresh broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce, this dish is a family favorite that’s both nutritious and delicious. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
Chicken tenderloin, diced
Fresh broccoli florets
Cream of mushroom soup
Shredded cheddar cheese
Cooked white rice
Onion, diced
Garlic powder
Salt and pepper
Paprika
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté diced onions until translucent.
3. Add diced chicken tenderloin and cook until browned.
4. Stir in cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika.
5. Fold in broccoli florets and cooked rice, mixing until fully combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
8. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.