Three Cheese Roasted Broccoli and Chicken Casserole

This delish dish came into existence in our house for a variety of reasons.  Let me explain...

Normally, I'm not a casserole girl, but I do adore chicken and broccoli!  Previously, I prepared a "lightened up" version using a stuffing mix and reduced fat cream-of-something soup.  On my quest to create dishes that are largely "homemade" and to avoid preservatives, I knew that I needed a new dish.  I couldn't do without the one casserole that I love!  Also, I often attempt to keep the rice/bread/pasta (carb) items low at dinner, so I needed a recipe that would allow the chicken and broccoli to stand alone without feeling like something was missing from the dish.  After a few attempts, finally ... complete satisfaction!  You won't be disappointed.  Bonus:  the casserole has more broccoli than chicken - great way to get the family to eat more veggies!
Best dishes and yummy dreams!

xo,

Three Cheese Roasted Broccoli and Chicken Casserole

-Little Mommy

Printable recipe

Serves 4

3 c. oven-roasted, seasoned broccoli

(I like to roast frozen broccoli straight from the freezer with 

olive oil and seasonings - 425 degrees for 20-30 minutes.)

2 c. shredded roasted chicken 

1 Tbsp. butter

1 Tbsp. flour

1/2 c. skim milk

1 c. reduced sodium chicken stock

1/3 c. shredded parmesan cheese

1/3 c. shredded cheddar cheese

1 Tbsp. onion powder

1 tsp. garlic powder

1 tsp. paprika

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. pepper

4 Tbsp. low-fat ricotta

1/2 c. panko bread crumbs

all-purpose seasoning

nonstick cooking spray

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

1.  In a sauce pot, melt the butter and add the flour to make a roux.

2.  Slowly add the cold milk and the chicken stock.  Stir and allow the mixture to thicken.

3.  Add the parmesan, cheddar, and spices.  

4.  Allow the mixture to bubble and thicken.  Stir occasionally.

5.  Once the mixture thickens, add the chicken and broccoli and combine thoroughly.  Remove from the heat.

6.  Spray a 2 1/2 or 3 quart baking dish with nonstick spray and pour the chicken and broccoli mixture into the dish.

7.  Top the mixture with small spoonfuls of the ricotta.

8.  Mix the bread crumbs with all-purpose seasoning and then spread the mixture on top of the casserole dish.

9.  Spray the bread crumbs with olive oil spray, or cooking spray to help them brown.

10.  Bake for 20 minutes.

Enjoy!

Click here to see where I shared this recipe.

Thanks for reading, loves xo