Looking for a comforting and delicious casserole that’s easy to make and sure to please a crowd? Look no further than our Ramen Noodle Chicken Broccoli Bake! This hearty dish combines the beloved flavors of chicken, broccoli, and cheesy ramen noodles into one satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings, this recipe is a winner every time. Join us as we dive into the details of this mouthwatering dish, including ingredients, instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions!
Ingredients:
- Six 3-oz packages chicken flavored ramen noodles, reserve 3 of the flavor packets (discard the others)
- One 8-oz package chive cream cheese
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup cream
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 large bag frozen broccoli florets
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions, but slightly undercook them as they will continue to cook in the oven later. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the chive cream cheese, whole milk, and cream. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble the Casserole
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ramen noodles, shredded rotisserie chicken, and frozen broccoli florets.
- Pour the creamy sauce over the noodle mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
4. Bake and Add Cheese Topping
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the Ramen Noodle Chicken Broccoli Bake hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or green onions if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Extra Flavor: Add additional seasonings to the creamy sauce for extra flavor. Consider adding garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning.
- Customize with Veggies: Feel free to customize the casserole with your favorite vegetables. You can use fresh or frozen veggies such as bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or peas.
- Spice it Up: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the creamy sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese? A: Absolutely! While cheddar cheese adds a delicious flavor to this casserole, you can use any type of cheese you prefer. Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby cheese for a different twist.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap or foil and bake as directed.
Q: Is there a way to make this recipe keto-friendly? A: Yes! To make a keto-friendly version of this casserole, you can substitute the ramen noodles with spiralized zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles. You can also use a keto-friendly cream cheese and heavy cream instead of whole milk and cream.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly Option: Replace the ramen noodles with spiralized zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles to reduce the carb content. Use a keto-friendly cream cheese and heavy cream in the sauce, and skip the milk and cream.
- Low-Carb Variation: For a lower-carb version, use fewer ramen noodles or substitute them with cooked spaghetti squash or cauliflower rice. You can also use a combination of almond flour and Parmesan cheese as a breadcrumb topping instead of ramen noodles.
In conclusion, our Ramen Noodle Chicken Broccoli Bake is a delicious and comforting casserole that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, flavorful broccoli, and cheesy topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering, this hearty dish is always a hit. Try it out today and enjoy a taste of comfort in every bite!
