A delightful casserole combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, perfect for a comforting family dinner.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Ensure the oven is fully preheated before placing the casserole inside for even cooking.
Grease a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
Use a non-stick spray or a small amount of butter to grease the dish.
Steam the broccoli florets until tender, then pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Drying the broccoli prevents the casserole from becoming watery.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, white wine, lemon juice, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until smooth.
Mix thoroughly to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.
Add the shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, chopped onion, celery, and cheddar cheese to the sauce and mix well.
Fold gently to avoid breaking the broccoli florets.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
Smooth the top with a spatula for even cooking.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
Ensure an even layer for a consistent cheesy crust.
In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with melted butter, then sprinkle this mixture over the casserole.
The buttered crackers add a delightful crunch to the dish.
Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Check the casserole at 35 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Resting allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to set.