Broccoli and Chicken Casserole

This comforting broccoli and chicken casserole is a delightful dish that brings together vibrant vegetables, succulent chicken, and a rich, cheesy sauce. The glossy cheddar-infused sauce coats each ingredient, creating a mouthwatering harmony. With its creamy texture and mild nutmeg flavor, this casserole is a family favorite. It's a comforting meal all year round, warm and savory for those cooler months, yet full of fresh broccoli for the spring and summer. Not only is it delicious, but it also provides a good balance of protein, calcium, and vitamins, making it a nutritious option. This dish can be easily adapted for different tastes by adding other vegetables or switching up the cheese variety. Simple to make yet packed with flavor, this casserole is a great way to use up leftover chicken or vegetables. It's suitable for meal prepping and tastes even better the next day. Serve it with some crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 700 g broccoli
• 200 g cooked chicken breast (baked or boiled)
• 700 ml milk
• 50 g all-purpose flour
• 150 g cheddar cheese, grated
• 50 g breadcrumbs

Spices and Sauces

• Salt, to taste
• Nutmeg, to taste

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Broccoli: Wash and separate the broccoli into smaller florets. Set aside.
2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
3. Cook the Chicken: Chop the cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.
4. Make the Sauce: In a pan, melt some butter over medium heat.
5. Add Flour: Sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly to form a smooth roux. Cook for a minute or two without browning.
6. Add Milk: Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
7. Thicken the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer and allow it to thicken for a few minutes.
8. Season the Sauce: Remove from heat and season with grated cheddar cheese, salt, and a dash of nutmeg.
9. Stir in Cheese: Add the grated cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
10. Cool a Bit: Let the sauce cool slightly before proceeding.
11. Grease Baking Dish: Grease a casserole dish with butter or oil.
12. Arrange Ingredients: Spread the broccoli and chicken evenly in the prepared dish.
13. Pour Sauce: Pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli and chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated.
14. Add Crunch: Sprinkle breadcrumbs generously over the top of the casserole.
15. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for around 20 minutes until golden brown and bubbly on top.
16. Check Doneness: Broccoli should be tender, and the surface nicely crisped.
17. Rest Before Serving: Allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
18. Serve: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or extra cheese if desired.
19. Optional Variations: Substitute chicken with turkey or add mushrooms for extra texture.
20. Enjoy: Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, flavorful delight!

Tips

• Cheese Choice: Feel free to try different cheeses like gruyere or mozzarella for a twist.
• Breadcrumbs: For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs.
• Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
• Make it Vegetarian: Omit chicken and add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 420 per serving
• Protein: 30g
• Fats: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 28g

Variations

• Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and vegan cheese.
• Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
• Low-Carb: Reduce breadcrumbs and replace with crushed nuts or seeds.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a light, crisp salad featuring arugula and cherry tomatoes.
• Serve alongside a fresh baguette or crusty whole grain bread.
• A glass of chilled white wine compliments the creamy flavors beautifully.

Best Places

• Café Gratitude - Known for wholesome plant-based dishes with a comforting twist. Location: 512 Rose Ave, Venice, CA, USA.
• The Greenhouse Café - Emphasizing fresh, sustainable ingredients in cozy surroundings. Location: 42 Vicar Lane, Leeds, UK.
• Kismet - Famous for innovative dishes and delightful ambiance. Location: 4648 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
• Broccoli Revolution - Offers creative, healthy dishes with global influences. Location: 899 Sukhumvit Rd, Bangkok, Thailand.
• Chez Panisse - Celebrated for its commitment to farm-to-table excellence. Location: 1517 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, CA, USA.
• Farmacy - Specializes in organic, nutrient-rich meals in a chic setting. Location: 74-76 Westbourne Grove, London, UK.
• Bite - Offers a dynamic menu changing with the seasons to maximize flavor. Location: 1000 S 8th St #200, Boise, ID, USA.
• Dirt Candy - Known for creative, vegetable-focused cuisine. Location: 86 Allen St, New York, NY, USA.
• Greens Restaurant - Offers stunning water views with equally stunning vegetarian dishes. Location: Fort Mason, San Francisco, CA, USA.
• Terra - A charming spot combining classic techniques with modern flavors. Location: 1345 Rail Head Blvd #3, Naples, FL, USA.