Chicken Broccoli and Cheddar Casserole Recipe

Chicken: Cooked and shredded, this forms the protein base of the casserole.

Broccoli: Steamed florets add a healthy, green component to the dish.

Cheddar cheese: Shredded, it provides a rich, cheesy flavor.

Cream of chicken soup: Adds creaminess and depth to the casserole.

Milk: Helps to thin out the soup and create a smooth sauce.

Bread crumbs: Combined with butter, they create a crunchy topping.

Butter: Melted, it is mixed with bread crumbs for the topping.

To ensure your bread crumbs topping is extra crispy, toast them lightly in a pan with the melted butter before sprinkling over the casserole. This step adds an extra layer of texture and flavor to your dish.

• cooked chicken - Substitute with cooked turkey: Turkey has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it an excellent substitute for chicken in casseroles.

• steamed broccoli florets - Substitute with cauliflower florets: Cauliflower provides a similar texture and mild flavor, making it a good alternative to broccoli.

• cheddar cheese - Substitute with mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella melts well and has a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients in the casserole.

• cream of chicken soup - Substitute with cream of mushroom soup: Cream of mushroom soup offers a similar creamy texture and savory flavor, making it a suitable replacement.

• milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Unsweetened almond milk provides a similar consistency and can be used for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer a dairy-free option.

• bread crumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes add a crunchy texture and can be used as a gluten-free alternative to bread crumbs.

• butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used to achieve a similar richness and moisture in the casserole while offering a healthier fat option.

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make the bread crumbs topping soggy.
• Transfer the casserole to an airtight container. If you prefer, you can also cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store the casserole in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This ensures that the chicken and broccoli remain fresh and safe to eat.
• For longer storage, freeze the casserole. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness. The casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• To reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove any plastic wrap and cover the casserole with aluminum foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• For a crispier topping, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of reheating. This will help the bread crumbs regain their crunch.
• Serve hot and enjoy your delicious chicken broccoli and cheddar casserole once again!

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover chicken broccoli and cheddar casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

• For a quicker method, use the microwave. Transfer a portion of the casserole to a microwave-safe dish. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, then stir. Continue heating in 1-minute intervals until thoroughly warmed.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an air fryer-safe dish or line the basket with parchment paper. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.

• For stovetop reheating, place a portion of the casserole in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of milk or chicken broth to keep it moist. Cover and heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

• If you prefer a toaster oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in a toaster oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and heat for 15-20 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at the specified temperature until it is golden brown and heated through.

• Large mixing bowl: Used to combine the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, and milk.

• Greased baking dish: The container where the mixture is poured and baked.

• Small bowl: Used to combine the bread crumbs and melted butter.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the ingredients like milk, bread crumbs, and shredded cheese.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the melted butter.

• Wooden spoon: Used to mix the ingredients in the large mixing bowl.

• Spatula: Used to spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish.

• Knife: Used to shred the cooked chicken if it is not pre-shredded.

• Cutting board: Used as a surface to shred the cooked chicken.

• Steamer: Used to steam the broccoli florets.

• Oven mitts: Used to safely handle the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.

Use rotisserie chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking and shredding your own.

Frozen broccoli: Opt for frozen broccoli florets that can be steamed in the microwave to cut down on prep time.

Pre-shredded cheese: Purchase pre-shredded cheddar cheese to eliminate the need for grating.

One-bowl mixing: Mix all ingredients in one large bowl to reduce the number of dishes to clean.

Quick bread crumbs: Use pre-made bread crumbs to avoid the step of making your own.