Ingredients
Creating this casserole doesn’t require an elaborate list of ingredients, just a few kitchen staples that are transformed into something magical — much like the scones my mum would bake from scratch. Here’s what you’ll need:
– Chicken breast: Tender and juicy, it serves as the protein-packed base for our dish, reminiscent of the hearty fare that fueled our family’s adventures in the countryside.
– Broccoli: Fresh and vibrant, it adds a pop of color and nutrition, just like the lush Devon fields I used to play in.
– Cheddar cheese: Rich and creamy, it’s the glue that holds everything together, much like the laughter and love in our home.
– Cream cheese: Smooth and decadent, it creates a sauce that envelops each ingredient in comfort.
– Heavy cream: Velvety and lush, it elevates the cheese sauce to new heights.
– Garlic powder: A nod to my mum’s secret arsenal of spices, it adds a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
– Onion powder: Enhances the savory notes, tying the dish together like a well-loved family recipe.
– Salt and pepper: Simple yet essential, these seasonings bring out the best in every bite.
Instructions
Creating this casserole is like painting a memory — each step is a brushstroke in a delicious masterpiece. Here’s how you bring it to life:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), setting the stage for a dish that warms the soul as much as it does the body.
2. Begin by cooking your chicken breast in a pan, seasoned with salt and pepper, until golden brown and cooked through. It’s reminiscent of those early mornings spent whisking eggs in the quiet of our Devon kitchen.
3. Steam the broccoli until just tender, a quick blanch that preserves its vibrant green hue and the vitality of nature.
4. In a saucepan, combine the cream cheese, heavy cream, garlic powder, and onion powder, stirring over low heat until smooth and bubbling — a process that feels like stirring a pot of memories.
5. Add the cheddar cheese to the sauce, allowing it to melt into a luscious, creamy consistency.
6. In a baking dish, layer the cooked chicken and broccoli, then pour the cheese sauce over the top, ensuring each piece is enveloped in its comforting embrace.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly, filling your kitchen with an aroma that’s as welcoming as a warm Devonshire hug.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International