Broccoli Chicken Casserole

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 3 ounces cream cheese, cubed
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• *1 tablespoon cornstarch (OR 1 teaspoon xanthan gum) + 1 tablespoon water
• 2 cups shredded cheddar, divided
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
2. In a lightly greased 7×11 baking dish, spread the shredded chicken evenly across the bottom and place the broccoli on top. Add salt and pepper to taste, then set it aside.
3. Heat a deep skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken broth and cubed cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese has dissolved. Add the heavy cream and 1 cup of the cheddar. Bring the mixture to a slight simmer and allow it to cook for 4-5 minutes until it begins to thicken.
4. *OPTIONAL, but recommended: If you desire a thicker sauce similar to a cream of soup consistency, combine 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 1 tablespoon cold water OR 1 teaspoon xanthan gum + 1 tablespoon cold water. Slowly pour it into the cheese sauce while stirring. The sauce will thicken almost immediately.
5. Pour the cheese sauce over the chicken and broccoli. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the broccoli is tender, and the cheese has begun to brown.