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When it comes to family dinners, few dishes can rival the comforting embrace of a Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Bake. This delightful casserole is a blend of creamy textures, cheesy goodness, and nutritious ingredients, making it a favorite among both adults and children. It’s the kind of meal that not only satisfies hunger but also warms the heart, perfect for gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.

Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Bake

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Bake! This easy-to-make casserole combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and gooey cheddar cheese for a delightful meal that the whole family will love. With its creamy texture and customizable ingredients, you can whip it up in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Serve it with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete dining experience that warms both the heart and belly.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

2 cups cooked white rice (or substitute with quinoa for a healthier twist)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup cream of chicken soup (store-bought or homemade)

½ cup sour cream

1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and black pepper, to taste

½ teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon dried thyme

½ cup breadcrumbs (optional for a crunchy topping)

2 tablespoons olive oil (for breadcrumb topping, if used)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it's hot and ready for baking.

    Prepare the Broccoli:

      - For fresh broccoli, steam the florets for approximately 5 minutes until they turn bright green and are slightly tender.

        - For frozen broccoli, simply microwave it until thawed, ensuring it retains its vibrant color.

          Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the shredded chicken, broccoli florets, cooked rice, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper, ensuring all ingredients are well mixed.

            Transfer to Casserole Dish: Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish, then pour in the chicken and broccoli mixture. Spread it out evenly across the bottom.

              Add Topping (Optional): If you crave a crispy finish, combine the breadcrumbs with olive oil in a small bowl until they are coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.

                Bake: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the mixture is bubbling around the edges.

                  Cool and Serve: Once baked, let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes. This resting time helps the dish to set, making it easier to portion out.

                    Garnish: For added color and a hint of freshness, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or sliced green onions before serving.

                      Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6-8

                        Enjoy your delightful Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Bake, a comforting dish sure to please both family and friends!