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This Broccoli Beef Cheddar Chicken casserole is a delightful, hearty dish that brings together classic comfort food elements in a keto-friendly way. By combining tender chicken, savory beef, and cheesy goodness with broccoli, it creates a satisfying meal that's both flavorful and nutritious. It's a perfect choice for anyone looking for a low-carb, high-protein dinner.
Gathering Your Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide lean protein. Slice them thinly for even cooking.
- Ground Beef: Cooked ground beef adds a rich, savory flavor. Beef crumbles or thinly sliced steak can also be used.
- Broccoli Florets: Blanched broccoli adds a healthy dose of fiber and nutrients.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully, creating a creamy texture.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds a sharp, tangy flavor.
- Olive Oil: Used to grease the casserole dish and prevent sticking.
- Italian Seasoning: Adds a blend of herbs that enhance the overall flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
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Cooking Instructions
- Preparing the Oven and Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a casserole dish with olive oil to prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Preparing the Chicken:
- Slice the chicken breasts horizontally to create thinner pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and quickly. Place the chicken pieces in the prepared casserole dish.
- Seasoning the Chicken:
- Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Ensure the chicken is well seasoned for optimal flavor.
- Layering the Ingredients:
- Arrange the blanched broccoli florets evenly over the chicken breasts. Top the broccoli with the cooked ground beef, distributing it evenly.
- Adding the Cheese:
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the beef, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese. Make sure the cheese covers the entire surface for a bubbly, cheesy topping.
- Baking the Casserole:
- Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
This casserole has become a go-to meal in my household. It's incredibly satisfying and versatile, and I love how easy it is to customize with different vegetables and cheeses. I often make a large batch and enjoy the leftovers throughout the week.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad complements the richness of the casserole. Cauliflower mash is another excellent side dish, adding a creamy, low-carb element. Roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or green beans also pair well, adding variety and nutrients.
Creative Variations
Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, provolone, or pepper jack for a spicier kick. Add other low-carb vegetables like cauliflower, spinach, or mushrooms to the casserole. Incorporate spices like red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicier version. Create a creamy sauce by combining cream cheese and heavy cream and pouring it over the casserole before baking.
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Storage and Reheating
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C), covered with foil to prevent drying. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the texture may be slightly different.
This Broccoli Beef Cheddar Chicken casserole is a flavorful and satisfying meal that's perfect for anyone following a keto diet or looking for a high-protein, low-carb option. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Do I need to pre-cook the broccoli?
- Yes, the recipe calls for blanched broccoli. Blanch by boiling for 2-3 minutes then immediately placing in ice water. This ensures it's cooked but still firm.
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
- Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well. They don't need to be sliced as they're typically thinner, but may require a few extra minutes of cooking time.
- → How do I know when the chicken is done?
- The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Since they're sliced thin, they cook quickly in about 20-25 minutes.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
- You can assemble the dish up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the cooking time when baking from cold.
- → What can I serve with this dish?
- For a keto meal, serve with cauliflower rice, a green salad, or roasted low-carb vegetables like asparagus or zucchini.