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To elevate the texture and flavor of your Cheesy Blissful Chicken & Broccoli Casserole, the addition of a crispy topping is essential. A common and delightful choice is crushed butter crackers, which contribute both crunch and richness to the dish. Here’s how to prepare the topping:

Comforting Cheesy Broccoli and Chicken Casserole

Discover the joy of cooking with Cheesy Blissful Chicken & Broccoli Casserole, a timeless comfort food that blends tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with nutritious ingredients. With options for customization, such as swapping vegetables or proteins, you can make it your own. Explore this delicious recipe and share the warmth it brings to your table!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

3 cups fresh broccoli florets (or 2 cups frozen broccoli, thawed)

1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

1 cup milk

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)

1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)

1 cup crushed butter crackers (e.g., Ritz)

2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Cook the Pasta: In a pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Prepare Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, blanch it in boiling water for about 2 minutes until bright green, then transfer it to a bowl with ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.

        Create the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Whisk until smooth.

          Combine Ingredients: In the bowl with the sauce, add the shredded chicken, cooked macaroni, blanched broccoli, and 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is evenly coated in the sauce.

            Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.

              Top It Off: In a small bowl, combine the crushed butter crackers with melted butter and paprika (if using). Mix well and sprinkle the mixture evenly over the casserole. Finally, top with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

                Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

                  Remove and Cool: Once done, remove from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set a bit more.

                    Serve: Scoop the cheesy broccoli and chicken casserole onto plates and enjoy this comforting dish!

                      Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6-8