# Ingredients:
→ Proteins
01 - 2 large chicken breasts (about 1 lb 2 oz), cooked and shredded or cubed
→ Vegetables
02 - 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Dairy
04 - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
05 - 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
06 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
→ Pantry
07 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
10 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
11 - 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a medium baking dish measuring 8x12 inches.
02 - Steam or microwave broccoli florets for 2 to 3 minutes until just tender with bright green color retained. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
03 - Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, sautéed garlic, half the shredded cheddar, cream cheese, heavy cream, salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs. Mix thoroughly until all components are evenly coated.
05 - Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish. Distribute remaining cheddar cheese evenly across the top surface.
06 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and achieves golden brown coloration.
07 - Allow casserole to rest for 5 minutes before portioning and serving.
