Description
This Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole is a comforting and nutritious meal combining tender shredded chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy cheesy sauce, topped with a crispy breadcrumb layer. Perfect for a wholesome family dinner, this casserole offers a balanced blend of protein, vegetables, and flavor with a lighter twist.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups fresh broccoli, chopped
Sauce and Cheese
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (use lighter version if preferred)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the casserole.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly combine the shredded chicken, chopped broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese, making sure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring a uniform layer for even cooking.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter until the breadcrumbs are well coated. This will create a golden, crispy topping.
- Add Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the breadcrumbs turn golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving hot. Enjoy your nutritious and comforting casserole!
Notes
- To make this recipe lighter, choose a low-fat or reduced-fat cream of mushroom soup and mayonnaise.
- Fresh broccoli provides the best texture, but frozen broccoli can be used; just be sure to thaw and drain well before mixing.
- If you prefer, substitute shredded cheddar cheese with a lower-fat cheese or a cheese alternative to reduce calories.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for the topping.
- This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/6 of casserole)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
