A comforting and hearty casserole featuring tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce, perfect for a family dinner.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Preheating ensures even cooking and the perfect texture.
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the chicken breasts with the poultry seasoning until tender, about 20 minutes.
Cut the chicken into smaller pieces for quicker cooking.
Remove the chicken from the pot, let it cool slightly, and shred it using two forks.
Shredding the chicken while warm makes it easier.
Steam or blanch the broccoli until tender but still crisp, about 5 minutes.
Avoid overcooking the broccoli to maintain its vibrant color.
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, and half of the cheddar cheese.
Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Use a spatula to smooth the top for even baking.
Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.
Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly for a golden crust.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
Check halfway through to ensure even browning.
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Allowing it to cool slightly makes serving easier.