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The charm of casseroles lies in their simplicity and the comfort they provide. They are the quintessential one-dish meals that can feed a crowd or provide leftovers for the week ahead. Casseroles often feature a delightful amalgamation of textures and flavors, making each bite an adventure. Whether you prefer a creamy base or a crunchy topping, there’s a casserole recipe out there to satisfy every craving.

Comforting Cheddar and Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Discover the warmth and comfort of the Cozy Cheddar & Broccoli Chicken Casserole, a delightful blend of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheddar cheese layered with hearty brown rice. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish offers a nutritious meal packed with flavors loved by the whole family. It’s easy to make ahead, reducing stress while providing a satisfying dining experience. Unleash your creativity by customizing ingredients to suit dietary preferences, and enjoy the joy of sharing this wholesome comfort food with loved ones.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

1 cup uncooked brown rice

2 cups vegetable or chicken broth

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup milk (or a dairy-free alternative)

1 cup cream of mushroom soup (homemade or canned)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon paprika (optional)

½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

2 tablespoons olive oil (for drizzling)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish with non-stick spray or drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking.

    Cook the Broccoli: For fresh broccoli, steam or blanch the florets in boiling water for 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender but still crisp. For frozen broccoli, ensure it is completely thawed and drain any excess water before using.

      Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, broccoli, uncooked brown rice, broth, milk, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and optional paprika. Stir the mixture until all ingredients are well incorporated and evenly distributed.

        Add Cheese: Gently fold in ¾ cup of the shredded cheddar cheese into the mixture until it's thoroughly mixed, ensuring the cheese is spread throughout.

          Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the creamy chicken and broccoli mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish.

            Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir until the breadcrumbs are slightly moistened but not soggy. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole for a crunchy topping.

              Add Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the breadcrumbs, creating a delicious, cheesy crust that will melt and brown beautifully during baking.

                Bake: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is a lovely golden brown.

                  Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish the top with freshly chopped parsley to add color and freshness.

                    Serve: Dish out generous portions of the comforting Cheddar & Broccoli Chicken Casserole onto plates and savor the delightful flavors. Enjoy this warming meal with your family or friends!

                      Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6-8