Get ready to transform your dinner routine with the ultimate comfort food that'll have your family begging for seconds! This Bacon Cheddar Chicken Casserole is not just another boring weeknight meal – it's a flavor-packed, cheesy sensation that combines the irresistible crunch of bacon, the creamy goodness of chicken, and the nutritious boost of broccoli. In just 40 minutes, you'll create a mouthwatering dish that's so delicious, it'll make your taste buds dance and your dinner guests think you're a culinary genius!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
- Steam the broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender but still crisp. Drain and let cool slightly.
- Gently fold the steamed broccoli into the chicken mixture, ensuring even distribution.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, stirring to incorporate the seasonings evenly.
- Transfer the chicken and broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Evenly distribute the crumbled bacon across the cheese layer.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the ingredients to set.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional fresh herbs like chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- • For the most tender and flavorful chicken, use rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken instead of plain boiled chicken. • Make sure to steam the broccoli just until bright green to maintain its crisp texture and nutritional value. • Don't skip letting the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking – this helps the ingredients set and makes serving easier. • For extra crispy bacon, consider pre-cooking it until it's slightly more crisp than you normally would, as it will soften slightly in the casserole. • Want to make it ahead? You can assemble the casserole earlier in the day and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve. • Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties like monterey jack or a blend of cheeses for added complexity. • If you're looking to make this dish lighter, you can substitute low-fat cream of chicken soup and reduced-fat cheese.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 110mg
