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### **Instructions:**
#### 1. **Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli:**
– If you don’t have cooked chicken ready, simply cook it by baking, grilling, or boiling the chicken breasts until fully cooked. Once done, shred or cube the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
– Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until they are tender but still crisp. This will help maintain the broccoli’s texture and vibrant green color. Drain the broccoli well and set aside.
#### 2. **Make the Creamy Sauce:**
– In a medium saucepan, melt the butter or heat the olive oil over medium heat.
– Add the cream cheese and heavy cream to the pan, stirring until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
– Add the garlic powder, onion powder, mustard (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to combine all the seasonings into the sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
#### 3. **Assemble the Casserole:**
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken and broccoli. Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and broccoli mixture, stirring until everything is well-coated.
– Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish (around 9×13 inches). Smooth the top with a spatula for an even layer.
#### 4. **Top with Cheese:**
– Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. The cheese will melt and form a delicious golden crust as it bakes.
#### 5. **Bake the Casserole:**
– Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
– If you want an extra crispy top, you can broil the casserole for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
#### 6. **Garnish and Serve:**
– Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to add a touch of color and extra flavor.
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### **Why You’ll Love This Low-Carb Chicken Cheese Broccoli Casserole:**
– **Packed with Protein and Fiber**: The chicken provides a great source of lean protein, while the broccoli adds fiber and essential nutrients, making it a filling and healthy meal.
– **Rich and Creamy**: The cream cheese and heavy cream create a luscious sauce that coats the chicken and broccoli, while the melted cheese adds a cheesy, comforting finish.
– **Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly**: This casserole is perfect for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet, offering all the flavor of a classic comfort food without the added carbs.
– **Versatile**: You can easily customize this casserole by adding other low-carb vegetables, such as spinach, cauliflower, or mushrooms, for added variety.
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### **Tips for the Perfect Casserole:**
– **Add More Cheese**: If you love cheese, feel free to add extra shredded cheese on top or mix it into the filling for a more indulgent dish.
– **Use Leftover Chicken**: This is a great recipe for using up leftover chicken from a previous meal, saving you time in the kitchen.
– **Make Ahead**: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time by assembling it and then storing it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to add an extra few minutes of baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
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### **Conclusion:**
This **Chicken Cheese Broccoli Casserole** is a delightful, low-carb meal that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the nutritional benefits of chicken and broccoli. Whether you’re following a specific diet or simply looking for a comforting dish, this casserole is a must-try. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal!
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