Chicken Broccoli Stuffing Casserole

Chicken Broccoli Stuffing Casserole

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever crave pure, unadulterated comfort food ? This chicken broccoli stuffing casserole is exactly what you need. It's creamy, savory, and packed with flavor.
Brief Overview
This classic comfort food casserole is like a big hug. It's super easy to make in around 50 minutes. This recipe makes 6 servings, perfect for a family meal.
Main Benefits
It's got chicken and broccoli, so you get a decent protein and some vitamins. This weeknight chicken dinner is perfect any day of the week.
What makes it special? It's easy chicken casserole recipe to put together.
You know, I remember the first time I made this. It was a total "wing it" moment! I had leftover chicken, some broccoli wilting in the fridge, and a box of stuffing.
Honestly, it was the best mistake ever! This chicken stuffing casserole is now one of my family's favorites.
For the chicken broccoli stuffing casserole chicken , you'll need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets, lightly steamed
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of paprika
- 1 box stuffing mix
- 1 ¼ cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
You might also want to include some bread.
Equipment
Get your baking dish ready. A 9x13 inch is perfect.
Step-by-step Instructions
Ready to bake? Let's do it!
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 375° F ( 190° C).
- Prepare Stuffing: Follow the box instructions for the stuffing.
- Mix Filling: Combine the chicken, broccoli, soup, sour cream, cheese, and spices.
- Assemble Casserole: Layer it up! Chicken mix, then stuffing.
- Bake: Bake until bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Let it cool for a few, then dig in!
This creamy chicken broccoli casserole is a guaranteed hit. Enjoy, mate!
Other suggestions
Include serving suggestions Include substitutions if the ingredients aren't available Nutritional information to complete the circle of info.
Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Chicken Broccoli Stuffing Casserole Chicken Ever!
Okay, let’s dive into what you'll need to make this amazing chicken broccoli stuffing casserole chicken . It's super easy, I promise! You'll be surprised how quickly a chicken broccoli casserole becomes a weeknight staple.
Main Ingredients: The Stars of the Show
- Cooked Chicken: 3 cups (about 450g), shredded or diced. Seriously, rotisserie chicken from the store is a lifesaver here! Makes your easy chicken casserole recipe even easier.
- Broccoli Florets: 2 cups (about 200g), fresh or frozen, lightly steamed. You don't want them mushy. Trust me on this one.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 (10.5 oz / 298g) can. You can use cream of mushroom if you're feeling adventurous.
- Sour Cream: ½ cup (about 120g). Greek yogurt works too, makes it a bit healthier, you know?
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup (about 115g), shredded.
- Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon
- Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon
- Paprika: A pinch. Gotta add that little something!
- Stuffing Mix: 1 (6 oz / 170g) box. I always go for the classic herb flavor. This is a chicken casserole with stuffing mix after all!
- Chicken Broth: 1 ¼ cups (300ml)
- Unsalted Butter: 2 tablespoons (28g)
Quality Check: For the chicken, if you are buying raw, make sure it's firm. If using rotisserie, fresh is best. This will improve the creamy chicken broccoli casserole .
Seasoning Notes: Amp Up the Flavor
A little garlic powder, black pepper, and a pinch of paprika goes a long way. For a bit of extra oomph, consider adding a dash of onion powder too.
If you're a thyme person, chicken stuffing casserole gets a nice flavour boost with fresh or dried thyme. Fresh rosemary or thyme can be added to the stuffing for extra flavor
Substitution Tip: Don't have sour cream? Mayonnaise will work in a pinch, but the flavor will be a little different.
Equipment Needed: Simple Tools for a Simple Dish
- 9x13 inch baking dish (23x33 cm). My go-to casserole dish!
- Large bowl. For mixing all that yummy goodness.
- Saucepan. For making the stuffing.
- Measuring cups and spoons. Obvs.
- Fork. For fluffing that stuffing!
- Can opener. Also obvs.
Honestly, that’s all you need! You probably already have most of this stuff. One pot chicken casserole recipes are great, but this bake is next-level! Let's get started on this chicken broccoli stuffing bake !
Chicken Broccoli Stuffing Casserole: Let's Get Baking!
Honestly, who doesn't love a good comfort food casserole ? This chicken broccoli stuffing casserole is like a warm hug in a dish.
It's the ultimate easy chicken casserole recipe for a weeknight chicken dinner or a potluck. Think of it as a deconstructed chicken pot pie.
It tastes amazing.
Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place Magic
Before we dive in, let's talk prep. Essential mise en place means having everything ready. Shred the 3 cups of cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken is my secret weapon!).
Steam the 2 cups of broccoli florets lightly. Nobody wants mushy broccoli! Grab your 10.5 oz can of cream of chicken soup.
And don't forget to grease that 9x13 inch baking dish! Seriously, grease it well.
Step-by-Step to Casserole Heaven
Here’s how to make this creamy chicken broccoli casserole a reality:
- Preheat your oven to 375° F ( 190° C) .
- Make the stuffing. Heat 1 ¼ cups chicken broth and 2 tablespoons butter. Stir in your 6 oz stuffing mix. Cover and let it sit for 5 minutes . Fluff with a fork!
- Mix the magic. Combine chicken, broccoli, soup, ½ cup sour cream, 1 cup cheddar, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon pepper, and a pinch of paprika.
- Assemble! Spread the chicken broccoli divan mixture in the dish. Top with the stuffing.
- Bake for 30- 35 minutes . Look for golden brown perfection and bubbly filling.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This gives it time to set up a bit.
Pro Tips for Casserole Perfection
Want to level up your chicken stuffing casserole game? Try this: If the stuffing starts to brown too fast, tent the casserole with foil during the last 10 minutes .
Also, don't overcook the broccoli. Slightly crisp is the way to go. It prevents mushiness. I have found out that using fresh rosemary or thyme add incredible aroma and flavor.
If you are gluten free try to use gluten-free stuffing mix. This casserole can be made ahead. Just assemble it.
Store it in the fridge unbaked. Add 15 minutes to the baking time.
This chicken broccoli stuffing bake truly delivers.
Recipe Notes for Your Chicken Broccoli Stuffing Casserole
Honestly, nailing this chicken broccoli stuffing casserole chicken recipe is all about making it your own. It's like that trusty old jumper you always reach for – comfy, familiar, and just right.
These notes will help you personalize it!
Plating & Presentation: Making it Look Good!
Okay, so it's comfort food casserole , right? But that doesn't mean it can't look pretty! A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a swirl of sour cream on top elevates it.
I sometimes use a ramekin instead of the pan. Serve it hot, and watch your family smile. Think about adding a side of cranberry sauce, the sweet and savory flavors always go well together.
Storage Secrets: Keeping It Fresh
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days . Make sure it's in an airtight container.
For reheating, the microwave works. But, honestly, the oven brings back that crispy topping. Reheat at 350° F ( 175° C) until warmed through.
The easy chicken casserole recipe is great but this is better.
Remixing the Recipe: Variations for Every Palate
Want a gluten-free chicken broccoli casserole ? Easy peasy! Use gluten-free stuffing mix and cream of chicken soup. Feeling like a creamy chicken broccoli casserole but watching your calories? Use light sour cream or Greek yogurt and reduced-fat cheese.
Boom! Plus, you can swap out the broccoli for cauliflower.
Nutrition Know-How: Fueling Up
This chicken broccoli stuffing bake is packed with protein from the chicken. It also includes fiber from the broccoli. It is a pretty decent weeknight chicken dinner .
But remember, that canned soup can be high in sodium. So, if you're watching your salt intake, look for a low-sodium version.
Want a different spin? How about a broccoli chicken divan ! Now, that's fancy.
So, there you have it. My little guide to making the best chicken stuffing casserole ever. Don't be afraid to experiment.
And remember, the most important ingredient is love, you know? Enjoy your one pot chicken casserole !
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make chicken broccoli stuffing casserole chicken ahead of time? I'm prepping for a potluck, you see.
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole ahead of time, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge to ensure it's heated through. Think of it like prepping your Sunday roast on Saturday – saves time and tastes even better!
My stuffing topping always burns! Any tips for preventing that with this chicken broccoli stuffing casserole chicken?
Ah, the dreaded burnt stuffing! If your stuffing topping is browning too quickly, tent the casserole dish with aluminum foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking. This will shield the top from direct heat while still allowing the casserole to heat through. Make sure you're using the correct oven temperature too, sometimes ovens can run a little hot, like a temperamental old car.
I'm trying to eat healthier – can I make this chicken broccoli stuffing casserole chicken lower in calories?
Definitely! Swap the regular cream of chicken soup for a "light" version, or even better, make your own healthier white sauce. Use light sour cream or Greek yogurt instead of regular sour cream, and opt for reduced-fat cheddar cheese. You could also increase the amount of broccoli and reduce the amount of stuffing to further cut down on calories. Think of it as a "Cinderella" makeover for your casserole!
Can I freeze this chicken broccoli stuffing casserole chicken for future easy dinners?
You sure can! Assemble the casserole, but don't bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed, adding about 15-20 minutes to the cooking time. It's like having a homemade ready-meal waiting in the freezer!
I don't have chicken, can I use turkey? Are there any other easy ingredient substitutions for this chicken broccoli stuffing casserole chicken?
Using turkey is a brilliant idea, especially after Thanksgiving! Cooked ham or even ground beef (browned and drained) would also work well. As for other subs, cream of mushroom soup works just as well as cream of chicken. If you're out of sour cream, you could try plain yogurt or even a bit of mayonnaise (it will change the flavor slightly, but still be delicious). Get creative – it's your kitchen, your rules!