If you’re looking for a satisfying, easy-to-make dinner that’s packed with flavor and nutrition, this Chicken Broccoli Bake is the perfect solution. Tender chicken, hearty broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce come together in one dish for a casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s a great way to sneak some veggies into your meal while enjoying the comfort of a warm, bubbling bake.
Why This Recipe Works
This Chicken Broccoli Bake is a well-balanced meal that covers all the bases – protein, veggies, and flavor. The combination of ingredients creates a dish that’s both tasty and nourishing.
- Chicken provides lean protein to keep you feeling full and satisfied
- Broccoli adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals for a nutritional boost
- The cheese sauce brings richness and a creamy texture that ties everything together
- The breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch that complements the tender chicken and broccoli
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (from about 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts)
- 4 cups broccoli florets, blanched
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large pot of boiling water, blanch the broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes, until crisp-tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
- Remove the sauce from heat and stir in 1 cup of the cheddar cheese and the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- In the prepared baking dish, combine the shredded chicken, blanched broccoli, and cheese sauce. Mix well to evenly coat.
- In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese, and olive oil. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for Casserole Success
- Use pre-cooked, shredded chicken to save time. Rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken works great.
- Blanch the broccoli just until it’s crisp-tender. Overcooking will lead to mushy broccoli in the final dish.
- For a creamier casserole, use heavy cream instead of milk in the cheese sauce.
- To make ahead, assemble the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Variations to Try
- Chicken Broccoli Rice Bake: Add 2 cups of cooked rice to the casserole for an even heartier meal.
- Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake: Substitute Alfredo sauce for the cheese sauce for a richer, creamier flavor.
- Chicken Broccoli Curry Bake: Add 1 tablespoon of curry powder to the cheese sauce for an Indian-inspired twist.
- Vegetarian Broccoli Cheese Bake: Omit the chicken and double the broccoli for a tasty vegetarian version.
This Chicken Broccoli Bake is a delicious, easy-to-make casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken and sneak some extra veggies into your diet. Plus, it reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy the leftovers for lunch the next day.
So next time you’re in the mood for a comforting, satisfying meal that’s sure to please the whole family, give this Chicken Broccoli Bake a try. It’s a classic casserole with a few tasty twists that make it extra special.
Pro Tip: For an extra flavor boost, try adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard or a teaspoon of dried thyme to the cheese sauce. These small additions can take your casserole from good to great!