Description
A hearty, creamy, and comforting casserole made with chicken, vegetables, and a rich sauce that comes together in about 40 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 to 2 pounds cooked, shredded or diced chicken
- 3/4 cup heavy cream (For a rich, silky base.)
- 6 ounces cream cheese, softened (Should be at room temperature for blending.)
- 1/3 cup sour cream or mayonnaise (For tang and body.)
- 2 to 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups broccoli florets, lightly steamed or microwaved
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (Sautéed for savory flavor.)
- 1 to 1.5 cups cauliflower rice, optional (Great for volume.)
- 1.5 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan, finely grated
- 1/3 cup bacon bits (For smoky crunch.)
Seasonings
- salt
- pepper
- paprika
- onion powder
- Italian seasoning, pinches
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- Steam broccoli until just tender and microwave cauliflower rice for 2 to 3 minutes to release moisture, then pat dry.
Making the Sauce
- In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds.
- Add heavy cream and softened cream cheese and whisk until smooth.
- Stir in sour cream or mayo, 1 cup of cheddar, and half the Parmesan. Season generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and a pinch of Italian seasoning.
Combining
- In a large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, broccoli, mushrooms, and cauliflower rice.
- Pour the sauce over the mix and stir until everything is evenly coated.
Baking
- Spread the mixture into the greased baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Parmesan, then add bacon bits on top.
- Bake for 18 to 22 minutes until the casserole is bubbling and lightly golden.
Serving
- Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes to set before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
For the creamiest texture, soften your cream cheese beforehand. Utilize leftover veggies for added flavor and substance. This casserole reheats well and can be prepared ahead of time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: dinner, Main Course
- Cuisine: American, Keto