Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

Casseroles are particularly lovely when you are busy, because you can prep them when you have a quiet moment. Then all you have to do is pop them in the oven when you need them. This one brings together some of our favorite flavors: cheese, chicken, and broccoli.

You will need:

• 4 T unsalted butter
• 1/2 yellow onion, chopped
• 4 T flour
• 1 1/4 c unsalted chicken stock
• 1 c milk
• 1 c light cream
• 1 t paprika
• 2 c shredded Gruyere cheese
• 1 lb chicken breast, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• oz frozen chopped broccoli, thawed and drained
• 1 box stuffing mix, prepared according to instructions (I used a cornbread version)
• 1/2 c shredded cheddar cheese
• 3 T fresh chives, minced

Then you will…

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In small sauce pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the onion and saute until starting to soften, about 4 minutes.
4. Whisk in the flour and allow to cook for 2 minutes (keep whisking!).
5. Whisk in the stock, milk, cream and paprika until well combined.
6. Bring to a simmer and allow to thicken, stirring frequently, about 8-10 minutes.
7. Stir in the Gruyere until melted.
8. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
9. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken with the cheese sauce and broccoli.
10. In a medium mixing bowl, mix together the prepared stuffing with the cheddar and chives.
11. Spread the chicken mixture in the prepared baking dish.
12. Top with the stuffing mixture.
13. Bake until bubbly and the stuffing starts to turn a bit more golden, about 30-40 minutes.
14. Allow to rest for at least 5 minutes before serving.