Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Bites are a delicious and convenient way to enjoy the flavors of a classic casserole in a bite-sized form. These bite-sized delights that are cheesy, creamy, and packed with tender chicken and broccoli, all in one heavenly mouthful. It’s like comfort food magic!
These Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Bites are the perfect party pleasers, appetizers, or just because you crave something delicious. They’re easy to whip up, freeze like a dream, and are an irresistible combination of flavors. The gooey cheese, savory chicken, and a touch of mayo come together in a little package of yum. Trust me, you won’t be able to resist these, and your friends and family will thank you for sharing this savory sensation.
Recipe notes:
- You can use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for this recipe to save time.
- Feel free to customize the casserole bites by adding other ingredients like diced red bell peppers, mushrooms, or your favorite spices.
- Ensure that the chicken and broccoli are fully cooked and properly drained. You can poach, bake, or steam the chicken and broccoli until tender. Be sure to remove excess moisture, especially from the broccoli, to prevent the casserole bites from becoming too watery.
FAQ:
Can I use frozen broccoli?
While fresh broccoli is recommended for this recipe, you can use frozen broccoli as a substitute. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before using it in the recipe.
Can I make these in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Bites in advance and store them in the refrigerator. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to serve.
What dipping sauces can I serve with these bites?
In addition to the recommended Dijon mustard and honey sauce, you can serve these bites with various dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or a classic cheese sauce for extra flavor.
Storage instructions:
Allow the casserole bites to cool to room temperature after baking. Place any leftover casserole bites in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for 3-4 months.
For refrigerated leftovers, you can reheat them in the oven or microwave until they are heated through.
For frozen casserole bites, you can reheat them directly from the freezer in the oven at a lower temperature to prevent them from becoming too dry. Alternatively, use the microwave for a quicker thaw and reheat. Be sure to reheat the bites until they are piping hot to ensure they are safe to eat.
Variations:
- Bacon and Cheddar: Add crumbled cooked bacon and extra cheddar cheese for a smoky and cheesy twist. The combination of bacon and broccoli is a classic pairing.
- Buffalo Chicken: Incorporate some buffalo sauce and blue cheese crumbles into the mixture for a spicy and tangy flavor. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
- Mushroom and Swiss: Sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese can replace the cheddar and Parmesan for a milder, earthy flavor.
- Spinach and Feta: Substitute broccoli with finely chopped spinach and use crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist. A hint of lemon zest can brighten up the flavors.
- Pesto and Mozzarella: Incorporate homemade or store-bought pesto into the mixture and use mozzarella cheese for a fresh and herby flavor. Top with a small basil leaf for garnish.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 8
Net Carbs: 3 net carbs per serving
What do you need to make Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Bites
- 4 C. Shredded chicken
- 2 C. Steamed broccoli florets finely chopped
- 1 ½ C. Shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 Tbsp. Butter
- ½ Onion chopped
- 2 tsp. Minced garlic
- 1 C. Heavy whipping cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- â…“ C. Pork rind crumbs
- ¼ C. Grated parmesan cheese
How to make Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Bites
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray the sections of a muffin tin with cooking spray.
Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add in the onions, and saute until softened. Stir in the garlic, and saute for another 30 seconds.
Pour in the heavy whipping cream, and simmer until the sauce has become thick. Let it cool to thicken further.
In the meantime, combine the pork rind crumbs and parmesan cheese in a small bowl.
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
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g)
Add the chicken, broccoli, cheese, sauce mixture and salt and pepper to taste to a mixing bowl, and stir to combine well.
Press the chicken and broccoli mixture into the sections of the muffin tin until they are full, and top with some of the pork rind crumb mixture.
a)
b)
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until browned and crispy on top. Allow them to cool for 10 minutes before removing to serve.
YUM!
Enjoy!
How to serve:
- Appetizer: Serve the casserole bites as an appetizer at parties, gatherings, or game nights. Place toothpicks or small skewers alongside for easy and mess-free picking.
- Snack: Enjoy the casserole bites as a tasty and satisfying snack, either on their own or with a dipping sauce.
- Party Platter: Arrange the casserole bites on a platter with an assortment of dipping sauces for a crowd-pleasing party snack.
- Finger Food: Serve the casserole bites at picnics, picnics, or outdoor gatherings where finger foods are appreciated.
- Potluck: Bring these casserole bites to a potluck or a gathering where guests contribute dishes. They are easy to transport and sure to be a hit.
Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Bite
Ingredients
- 4 C. Shredded chicken
- 2 C. Steamed broccoli florets finely chopped
- 1 ½ C. Shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 Tbsp. Butter
- ½ Onion chopped
- 2 tsp. Minced garlic
- 1 C. Heavy whipping cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- â…“ C. Pork rind crumbs
- ¼ C. Grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray the sections of a muffin tin with cooking spray.
Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add in the onions, and saute until softened. Stir in the garlic, and saute for another 30 seconds.
Pour in the heavy whipping cream, and simmer until the sauce has become thick. Let it cool to thicken further.
In the meantime, combine the pork rind crumbs and parmesan cheese in a small bowl.
Add the chicken, broccoli, cheese, sauce mixture and salt and pepper to taste to a mixing bowl, and stir to combine well.
Press the chicken and broccoli mixture into the sections of the muffin tin until they are full, and top with some of the pork rind crumb mixture.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until browned and crispy on top. Allow them to cool for 10 minutes before removing to serve.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
12Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 241Total Fat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 78mgSodium: 232mgCarbohydrates: 4gFiber: 1gSugar: 1gProtein: 17g
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