Cheesy Chicken And Broccoli Bakes Recipe

Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Bakes Recipe 🧀🥦🍗

This Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Bake is the ultimate comfort food! Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep. Whether you’re using rice, pasta, or just sticking with the chicken and broccoli, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup cooked rice or pasta (optional for a heartier bake)
1 cup milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp paprika (optional)
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
2 tbsp melted butter (for breadcrumbs)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish (about 9×9 inches or similar size).

Step 2: Steam the Broccoli

Steam the broccoli florets until just tender, about 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the following:

Cooked chicken
Steamed broccoli
Shredded cheddar cheese
Cooked rice or pasta (if using)
Milk (or heavy cream)
Sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
Grated Parmesan cheese
Minced garlic
Onion powder
Paprika (optional)
Salt and black pepper

Stir everything together until well combined. The mixture should be creamy and well-coated.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Transfer the chicken and broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter until they are well coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the bake.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dish is bubbling.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Let the bake cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm as a hearty, cheesy meal!

Optional Variations:

Bacon: Add crispy bacon bits to the filling for extra flavor and crunch.
Different Cheese Blend: Swap the cheddar for a blend of mozzarella and Monterey Jack for a creamier, meltier texture.
Add More Veggies: Consider adding other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.

Q&A Section:

Q: Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

A: Yes, using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great option! It will save you time and still provide a delicious flavor.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! You can assemble the bake, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed.

Q: Can I freeze this dish?

A: Yes, you can freeze this cheesy chicken and broccoli bake. After assembling it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual.

Q: What’s a good substitute for sour cream or Greek yogurt?

A: You can use cream cheese or heavy cream as a substitute if you prefer a richer, creamier texture. If you want a lighter version, consider using plain yogurt or low-fat sour cream.

Q: How can I make this dish spicier?

A: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the filling for a spicy kick. You could also add some hot sauce to the sauce mixture.

Q: Can I use a different type of vegetable?

A: Yes! If you’re not a fan of broccoli, you can swap it for other vegetables like cauliflower, spinach, or even zucchini. Just make sure they’re cooked and tender before adding them to the mixture.

Q: What kind of breadcrumbs should I use for the topping?

A: You can use Panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch, or regular breadcrumbs for a softer topping. You could even use crushed crackers or cornflakes for an interesting twist!

Conclusion

This Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Bake is a delicious, creamy comfort food that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding the whole family. Packed with protein and cheesy goodness, it’s a satisfying dish that you can customize with your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re adding bacon, a different cheese blend, or even extra veggies, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy! 🍽️