Chicken Broccoli Casserole is a classic comfort food that is perfect for meal prepping. With its savory chicken, tender broccoli, and creamy sauce, it’s the kind of dish that’s sure to warm you up from the inside out. Whether you’re feeding a family, or simply want to stock your fridge with nutritious, filling meals for the week ahead, this casserole recipe is sure to hit the spot.
One of the great things about Chicken Broccoli Casserole is that it’s so versatile. You can use fresh or frozen broccoli, and adjust the spices to suit your own tastes. Whether you prefer a mild or spicy dish, this casserole will satisfy. It’s also a great way to use up any leftover chicken you have in the fridge, or to cook up a batch of boneless, skinless chicken breasts to have on hand for meal prepping.
Appetizer Pairings:
To start, consider serving a light and refreshing salad to balance out the richness of the casserole. A simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing would be a perfect choice. Alternatively, you could offer a platter of crudité with a creamy dipping sauce, such as ranch or a lemon-herb aioli.
For a heartier option, consider serving up a platter of hot wings or crispy chicken tenders. These are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike, and they’re a great way to get everyone excited for the main course.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups of fresh or frozen broccoli florets
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of seasoned breadcrumbs
Ingredient Substitutions:
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be slightly thinner.
- Chicken broth can be substituted with vegetable broth or water, though the flavor may be slightly different.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with any type of melting cheese, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Swiss.
- Seasoned breadcrumbs can be substituted with plain breadcrumbs, but you may want to add in additional seasonings, such as dried herbs or spices.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a large bowl, mix together the chicken, broccoli, heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the mixture.
- Sprinkle the seasoned breadcrumbs over the cheese.
- Bake in the oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
- Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Tips and Tricks:
- For added flavor, you can sauté the chicken and broccoli in a pan with a bit of oil before adding them to the casserole.
- If you’re meal prepping, this casserole can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts:
Chicken Broccoli Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for meal prepping. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a great option for busy weeknights, and its delicious flavor will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re feeding a family, or simply looking for a nutritious and satisfying meal to have on hand, this casserole is sure to fit the bill.
By following the steps outlined above, you’ll be able to whip up a delicious and nutritious meal in no time. Whether you prefer a mild or spicy dish, this casserole can be adjusted to suit your own tastes, so feel free to get creative with your ingredients and seasonings. And, with its great flavor and satisfying texture, you’re sure to find this casserole becoming a staple in your meal prepping routine.
So, what are you waiting for? Preheat your oven and get cooking!
If you’re feeling lazy and don’t want to do your own meal prep, check out this review of Trifecta Meal Delivery. You can get this dish and others delivered to your door and already cooked!