Description
This Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Bake is a comforting, flavorful casserole combining tender chicken breasts, fresh broccoli florets, and a creamy cheese sauce baked to golden perfection. Ideal for a weeknight dinner, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying, delivering a delicious balance of protein and vegetables all melted together under a bubbly, cheesy crust.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Creamy Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Topping
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for a crunchy topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the casserole.
- Cook Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the bite-sized chicken pieces with a little bit of oil until they are no longer pink inside, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add butter and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add broccoli florets and cook for another 3 minutes until slightly tender.
- Make Cheese Sauce: Sprinkle flour over the vegetables in the skillet and stir to coat. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and stir in cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and mix everything together so the chicken and vegetables are well coated in the cheesy sauce.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Evenly spread it out and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and breadcrumbs on top for a golden crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the top is bubbly and toasted golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and enjoy your hearty cheesy broccoli chicken bake.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen broccoli, just adjust cooking time accordingly.
- For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat cheese and milk.
- You can swap chicken breasts for thighs if preferred.
- Breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a nice crunch.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
