Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (preferably halal chicken)
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed or blanched
- 1 cup mayonnaise (use halal-certified mayonnaise)
- 1 cup sour cream (ensure it is halal)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (use halal-certified cheese)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (use halal-certified breadcrumbs)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (or olive oil for a dairy-free option)
Ingredient Highlights
- Chicken: Chicken is the protein base of this dish. Using halal chicken ensures the recipe is suitable for those following halal dietary guidelines.
- Broccoli: Broccoli adds a nutritious, vibrant, and earthy element that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
- Cheese: Cheddar and Parmesan cheeses give the dish a deliciously rich flavor and a creamy texture.
- Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: These ingredients form the backbone of the creamy sauce, making it smooth and flavorful.
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Cook the Chicken: If you don’t already have cooked chicken, you can cook it by boiling, baking, or grilling chicken breasts or thighs. Once cooked, shred or cube the chicken and set aside.
- Prepare the Broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until they are tender but still firm. This will prevent them from becoming too mushy once baked. Set aside to cool.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light layer of oil to prevent the casserole from sticking.
Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
- Add the Cheeses: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, and lemon juice. Continue stirring until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Layer the Chicken and Broccoli: Spread the cooked chicken evenly in the prepared baking dish. Next, layer the steamed broccoli on top of the chicken, ensuring it is spread evenly.
- Pour the Creamy Sauce: Pour the creamy cheese mixture over the chicken and broccoli, spreading it evenly with a spatula to cover the entire dish.
Add the Topping:
- Add the Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter (or olive oil for a dairy-free option). Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake the Casserole:
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly. You can also check the center with a toothpick or knife to ensure it’s hot and cooked through.
Cool and Serve:
- Cool: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Serve: Slice and serve this creamy, comforting dish with a side of rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad. It’s perfect for dinner or special occasions.
- Prep Time: 20minutes
- Cook Time: 55minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 35g