Chicken, broccoli, and cheddar blend under a crispy topping for a warm, family-style casserole.
# Components:
→ Protein & Vegetables
01 - 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
02 - 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
→ Sauce & Base
03 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
04 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
05 - 1 cup whole milk
06 - 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
07 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
08 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
09 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
10 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
11 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
→ Cheese & Topping
12 - 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
13 - 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
14 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
→ Optional
15 - 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
02 - Steam or blanch broccoli florets in boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes until tender and bright green. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
03 - In a medium saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
04 - Gradually pour in whole milk and chicken broth while whisking, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.
05 - Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until fully incorporated. Remove sauce from heat.
06 - Mix in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese and stir until the cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.
07 - In a large mixing bowl, add cooked chicken, blanched broccoli, and the prepared cheese sauce. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
08 - Spread the chicken and broccoli mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
09 - Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the surface.
10 - In a small bowl, toss panko breadcrumbs with olive oil and red pepper flakes if desired. Distribute breadcrumb mixture evenly over casserole.
11 - Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until bubbling and the topping is golden brown.
12 - Allow casserole to cool for 5 minutes prior to serving.
