There’s something so comforting about a home-cooked casserole, especially one that comes together with just a handful of ingredients. My 5-Ingredient Broccoli Chicken Casserole is a tried and true favorite around here. Hailing from the heart of casserole country, this dish embodies the simplicity and heartiness that Midwestern cooking is all about. With tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and a fluffy stuffing topping, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you want a meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside out.
This cozy casserole is quite the all-in-one dish, but if you’re looking to round out the meal, a simple garden salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar pairs beautifully. For something a little heartier, serve alongside some honey-glazed carrots or roasted root vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 (10.5 oz.) can cream of chicken soup
– 2 heads broccoli, cut into florets and steamed
– 1 (6 oz.) package chicken stuffing mix
– 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Directions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish.
2. Spread the shredded chicken evenly along the bottom of the dish.
3. In a large bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup and a little splash of water or milk to thin it just a smidge. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
4. Scatter your steamed broccoli florets over the soup layer, giving the dish a nice pop of color and a boost of nutrition.
5. Sprinkle the chicken stuffing mix evenly on top of the broccoli. This will give you that delightful crust that I think brings the whole dish together.
6. Lastly, shower the casserole with shredded cheddar cheese, creating that gooey, melty layer that everyone adores.
7. Pop the casserole into the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden and your house smells like love and comfort.
8. Once done, let it sit for a few minutes. Then call everyone to the table for a taste of home.
Variations & Tips:
– For those with little ones who might be a bit wary of green veggies, you can substitute broccoli with peas or even mixed vegetables.
– If cream of chicken soup isn’t your thing, cream of mushroom or even a simple béchamel sauce with seasonings can be lovely alternatives.
– Feel free to mix in a can of drained, sliced water chestnuts or some sautéed onions and garlic for added crunch and flavor.
– Leftovers, if you have any, are marvelous when warmed up the next day, so don’t worry about making too much.
– If you want to get a head start on dinner, assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate. Then simply bake when you’re ready, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
With a dish as versatile and forgiving as this one, feel free to make it your own. After all, each family table is different, and that’s the beauty of home cooking. Enjoy, loves!
