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A delicious baked Casserole is shown as the featured image for this article.

Easy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

This chicken and broccoli casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner. It features tender chicken, roasted broccoli, and a creamy cheddar cheese sauce topped with buttery Ritz crackers.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 large head of broccoli
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
  • 1/4 cup melted butter

Equipment

  • Oven
  • baking sheet
  • Large saucepan
  • whisk
  • Large bowl
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • small bowl

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. Shred with two forks. Alternatively, use leftover rotisserie chicken.
  2. Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until a smooth paste forms (a roux). Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. Reduce heat to low and stir in salt, pepper, nutmeg, and 3/4 cup of the cheddar cheese. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, roasted broccoli, and cheese sauce. Stir well to combine.
  5. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  6. In a small bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
  8. Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use a combination of cheddar and Gruyere cheese in the sauce. You can substitute the Ritz cracker topping with breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.