Cheesy broccoli & chicken bake combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce into one irresistible casserole that’s perfect for weeknight dinner ideas. This hearty, comforting dish has become a staple in my household because it satisfies everyone’s cravings while still incorporating vegetables in a delicious way. Whether you’re looking for simple dinner ideas or need to feed a hungry family on a budget, this casserole delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Nutritional Benefits
This balanced one-dish meal provides protein from chicken, fiber and vitamins from broccoli, and calcium from cheese. It’s a complete meal that can be adjusted to suit different dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
| Nutrition | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 385 |
| Carbohydrates | 14g |
| Protein | 28g |
| Fat | 24g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Calcium | 350mg |
Ingredients & Substitutions
| Ingredient | Role | Possible Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| 2 lbs boneless chicken breasts | Main protein | Boneless chicken thighs, turkey breast, rotisserie chicken |
| 4 cups broccoli florets | Vegetable component | Cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, green beans |
| 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese | Creamy texture and flavor | Monterey Jack, Colby, mozzarella, or a blend |
| 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup | Sauce base | Cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or homemade white sauce |
| 1/2 cup sour cream | Creaminess and tanginess | Greek yogurt, cream cheese, or mayo |
| 1/2 cup milk | Thins sauce to desired consistency | Chicken broth, almond milk, or heavy cream |
| 1 tsp garlic powder | Flavor enhancer | Fresh minced garlic, garlic salt (reduce other salt) |
| 1 tsp onion powder | Flavor enhancer | Finely diced onion, dried minced onion |
| 1/2 tsp dried thyme | Aromatic herb | Italian seasoning, herbes de Provence, dried oregano |
| 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (optional) | Crispy topping | Panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, french fried onions |
Equipment Needed
– 9×13 inch baking dish
– Mixing bowls
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Sharp knife and cutting board
– Whisk
– Aluminum foil
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease your baking dish.
2. Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Steam the broccoli: Lightly steam broccoli florets until just tender but still bright green, about 3-4 minutes. Drain well to remove excess moisture.
4. Make the cheese sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme. Whisk until smooth. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheese, reserving the remaining 1/2 cup for topping.
5. Combine components: Add the cubed chicken and broccoli to the cheese mixture, stirring gently to coat everything evenly.
6. Transfer to baking dish: Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Add toppings: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese over the top. If using, scatter the crushed crackers on top of the cheese.
8. Cover and bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (reaches internal temperature of 165°F) and the top is golden and bubbly.
9. Rest before serving: Allow the cheesy broccoli & chicken bake to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to let the sauce thicken slightly.
This cheesy broccoli & chicken bake is a perfect solution for busy weeknight dinner ideas when you need something hearty and satisfying without hours of preparation.
Troubleshooting & Pro Tips
– Watery casserole? Make sure to drain the broccoli thoroughly after steaming. You can also toss the raw chicken in 1 tablespoon of flour before adding it to the mixture to help thicken the sauce.
– Raw chicken in the center? Cut chicken pieces to uniform size to ensure even cooking. If your chicken pieces are larger, increase the covered baking time by 5-10 minutes.
– Too rich? Use reduced-fat cheese and light sour cream to cut down on calories without sacrificing flavor.
– Make it zestier: Add 1-2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard to the sauce for a tangy kick.
– Time-saving hack: Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and frozen broccoli (thawed and well-drained) to make this truly one of those simple dinner ideas you can throw together in minutes.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
– Refrigerator storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
– Freezer instructions: Prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed, adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
– Make-ahead option: Assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow the casserole to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking as directed.
– Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until hot. For larger portions, cover with foil and reheat in a 325°F oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
Conclusion
This cheesy broccoli & chicken bake has become a cornerstone in my collection of weeknight dinner ideas. It’s a versatile recipe that satisfies the whole family while providing balanced nutrition in every bite. The combination of tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and creamy cheese sauce creates a comforting meal that even picky eaters will enjoy. For more delicious simple dinner ideas that won’t break the bank, try pairing this casserole with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes! Just thaw it completely and drain well to remove excess moisture. You may not need to pre-cook frozen broccoli since it’s usually blanched before freezing.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Use low-sodium soup, reduced-fat cheese, and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. You can also increase the broccoli-to-chicken ratio for more vegetables.
Can I add rice or pasta to this casserole?
Absolutely! Add 2 cups of cooked rice or pasta to make this a complete one-dish meal. You may want to add an extra 1/4 cup of milk to account for the additional ingredients.
What sides go well with cheesy broccoli & chicken bake?
A simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread all complement this casserole beautifully.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This is perfect for meal prep as it reheats well and can be frozen in individual portions for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
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