Creamy Curried Chicken and Broccoli Casserole: A Flavorful Comfort Food Feast

Craving a comforting, flavorful, and relatively easy-to-make dinner? Look no further than this Curried Chicken and Broccoli Casserole! This recipe takes the classic casserole concept and elevates it with the aromatic warmth of curry powder, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli. It’s a perfect weeknight meal, and the leftovers (if there are any!) are just as delicious the next day.

This casserole isn’t just about convenience; it’s about flavor. The curry powder adds a depth and complexity that transforms simple ingredients into something truly special. The creamy sauce binds everything together beautifully, while the broccoli provides a welcome pop of freshness and nutrients. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress.

Let’s dive into the details and get started!

## Why You’ll Love This Curried Chicken and Broccoli Casserole:

* **Flavorful:** The curry powder provides a warm, aromatic flavor that’s both comforting and exciting.
* **Easy to Make:** With simple steps and readily available ingredients, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt the recipe to your taste preferences by adding different vegetables or adjusting the spice level.
* **Comforting:** A warm and creamy casserole is the ultimate comfort food.
* **Great for Leftovers:** This casserole tastes just as good (or even better!) the next day.
* **Family-Friendly:** Even picky eaters will enjoy the mild curry flavor and familiar ingredients.

## Ingredients You’ll Need:

* **Chicken:** 1.5-2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded or diced. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
* **Broccoli:** 4 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen (thawed).
* **Onion:** 1 medium yellow onion, chopped.
* **Garlic:** 2 cloves garlic, minced.
* **Butter:** 4 tablespoons unsalted butter.
* **Flour:** 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour.
* **Chicken Broth:** 2 cups chicken broth.
* **Heavy Cream:** 1 cup heavy cream.
* **Curry Powder:** 2-3 tablespoons, depending on your preference.
* **Salt:** To taste.
* **Black Pepper:** To taste.
* **Shredded Cheese:** 1.5-2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites. A sharp cheddar will add more zing, while Monterey Jack offers a milder flavor.
* **Optional Toppings:** Breadcrumbs, chopped nuts (almonds or cashews work well), fresh parsley for garnish.

## Equipment You’ll Need:

* **Large Skillet or Dutch Oven:** For cooking the onion, garlic, and making the sauce.
* **9×13 inch Baking Dish:** For assembling and baking the casserole.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons**
* **Cutting Board and Knife**
* **Whisk**
* **Oven**

## Step-by-Step Instructions:

**1. Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli:**

* **Chicken:** If you’re not using leftover chicken, cook the chicken breasts. You can boil them, bake them, or grill them. Once cooked, let them cool slightly and then shred or dice them into bite-sized pieces.

* **Boiling:** Place chicken breasts in a pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
* **Baking:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Season with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
* **Grilling:** Grill chicken breasts over medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
* **Broccoli:** If using fresh broccoli, cut it into bite-sized florets. You can blanch the broccoli for a few minutes to help it cook more evenly in the casserole. To blanch, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli and cook for 2-3 minutes. Drain immediately and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. If using frozen broccoli, make sure it is thawed and drained well. Excess moisture will make the casserole watery.

**2. Make the Curry Sauce:**

* **Sauté Aromatics:** In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
* **Create a Roux:** Sprinkle the flour over the cooked onion and garlic. Whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce.
* **Add Liquid Gradually:** Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to whisk until the sauce is smooth.
* **Stir in Curry Powder and Cream:** Add the curry powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Bring the sauce to a simmer and then reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. More curry powder can be added for a stronger flavor. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a bit of heat.

**3. Assemble the Casserole:**

* **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, broccoli florets, and curry sauce. Stir to make sure everything is well coated.
* **Pour into Baking Dish:** Pour the chicken and broccoli mixture into the prepared 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly.
* **Top with Cheese:** Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
* **Add Optional Toppings (Optional):** If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs and/or chopped nuts over the cheese. This will add a nice textural crunch.

**4. Bake the Casserole:**

* **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
* **Bake:** Bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through. The top should be lightly golden brown.
* **Rest:** Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will allow the sauce to thicken slightly and prevent it from being too runny.

**5. Serve and Enjoy!**

* Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

## Tips and Variations:

* **Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of curry powder to your taste. Start with 2 tablespoons and add more if you prefer a stronger curry flavor. You can also use different types of curry powder, such as Madras curry powder for a spicier flavor.
* **Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to the casserole, such as carrots, peas, or bell peppers. Sauté them along with the onion and garlic.
* **Protein:** You can substitute the chicken with other proteins, such as turkey, ham, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. If using tofu, press out excess water before adding it to the casserole.
* **Cheese:** Experiment with different types of cheese. Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella all work well.
* **Cream of Chicken Soup:** For a quicker version, you can substitute the chicken broth, flour, and heavy cream with 2 cans of condensed cream of chicken soup. However, the homemade sauce will have a fresher and more flavorful taste.
* **Make-Ahead:** You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the cheese topping just before baking.
* **Freezing:** This casserole can be frozen before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely before wrapping and freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Reheating may require a longer baking time.
* **Breadcrumb Topping:** For a crispier topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese before baking. Panko breadcrumbs work particularly well.
* **Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free flour to make the sauce and ensure that your breadcrumbs (if using) are also gluten-free.
* **Low-Carb/Keto:** Substitute the flour with almond flour or coconut flour. Add a thickening agent like xanthan gum (a small amount goes a long way) and use cauliflower florets instead of broccoli. Check labels carefully for carb counts in all ingredients.
* **Add Some Heat:** Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes with the curry powder or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
* **Coconut Milk:** Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a richer and slightly sweeter flavor.
* **Lemon Juice:** A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end can brighten the flavors of the casserole.

## Serving Suggestions:

This Curried Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with:

* A side salad.
* Rice or quinoa.
* Garlic bread.
* Steamed green beans.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):

* Calories: 400-500
* Protein: 30-40g
* Fat: 25-35g
* Carbohydrates: 15-25g (depending on variations)

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

## Storing Leftovers:

Store leftover Curried Chicken and Broccoli Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until heated through.

## Troubleshooting:

* **Sauce is Too Thick:** Add a little more chicken broth to thin it out.
* **Sauce is Too Thin:** Simmer the sauce for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to the sauce while simmering.
* **Casserole is Dry:** Make sure you have enough sauce to coat all the ingredients. You can also add a little bit of chicken broth or heavy cream before baking to keep it moist.
* **Broccoli is Mushy:** Avoid overcooking the broccoli. If using fresh broccoli, blanch it briefly before adding it to the casserole. If using frozen broccoli, make sure it is thawed and drained well.

## Conclusion:

This Curried Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is a delightful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to enjoy a flavorful and comforting dish! Don’t be afraid to experiment with the variations and make it your own. Happy cooking!