For as long as anyone can remember, casseroles have been a sensational meal, first containing only rice filled with meat. Especially in the 1950’s it started to gain more popularity. The word casserole comes from the French word meaning “pan.” Dictionaries also define them as a dish in cast iron where food is baked. Surprisingly, casseroles have dated back to ancient times even though they did not have a name for it back then. These dishes could have been lasagnas or other meals similar to casseroles. However, as years went on, they evolved into savory meals filled with vegetables, chicken, and other spices and meats. But there are so many casserole recipes–how does one know which one to make? Well, this recipe is for an appetizing casserole consisting of chicken, broccoli, and many other nutritious foods. It is a very simple, easy recipe and perfect for someone starting to cook or just needing a perfect dinner for the family.
Ingredients:
- 4.5 lbs chicken
- 10 ounces frozen broccoli
- 5 cups water
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 stalk celery, chopped
- 1 carrot, chopped (optional)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- ½ cup flour
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups chicken broth (made in the recipe)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp curry powder
- 1 cup bread crumbs
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a large pan, simmer the chicken in the water, salt, celery, carrots if desired, and onion. Heat until the chicken is white, tender, and ingredients are mixed well together.
- Take the chicken out with a spoon and cube the chicken into small pieces.
- Remove from heat and strain the broth into another pan to use for later. You will not be using the leftover onions, celery, and other ingredients that were in the broth.
- Mix the flour and milk, whisking together until smooth. Then add the broth and cook until thick. Remove from heat and then add the mayonnaise, lemon juice, and curry powder.
- Cook the broccoli in a medium saucepan until tender or in a microwave safe dish for around four minutes.
- Spread the broccoli on the bottom of the casserole dish, then put the chicken on top of the broccoli layer, and then finally the sauce. Sprinkle the bread crumbs on top of the casserole.
- Cook in the oven for 45 minutes or until bread crumbs are slightly browning.
- Let it cool if needed, then serve immediately.