Broccoli Cheddar Chicken
Whenever I think of comfort food, Broccoli Cheddar Chicken comes to mind. It’s one of those meals I remember enjoying as a child, snuggled up with my family on a chilly winter evening. The warm, creamy sauce enveloping tender chicken and vibrant broccoli feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Every bite takes me back to those cozy nights filled with laughter and good food. Now, as an adult, I find myself recreating this dish, making it a staple in my home. It’s amazing how a single recipe can evoke such fond memories and feelings of joy.
Recipe Snapshot
55 mins
10 mins
45 mins
Medium
450 kcal
38 g
Keto, Gluten-Free
20 g
Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet
Why This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Works
It’s Incredibly Satisfying
The first reason I absolutely love Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is how satisfying it is. The combination of tender, juicy chicken and the rich, cheesy sauce creates a dish that fills you up while still being light enough to leave you craving more.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This recipe isn’t just for winter nights. It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even just a weeknight dinner. Everyone loves it, and it’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables without anyone noticing!
Easy to Make
Even if you’re short on time, Broccoli Cheddar Chicken comes together quite quickly. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Customizable
Another reason I adore this recipe is its adaptability. You can easily modify it by adding different vegetables or spices to cater to your family’s tastes. Want to add some garlic or throw in some carrots? Go for it! It’s a versatile dish that can evolve with your cravings.
Freezes Well
If you’ve got leftovers or want to prepare meals in advance, Broccoli Cheddar Chicken freezes beautifully. Just portion it out and pop it in the freezer. You’ll have a comforting meal ready to go for those busy nights.
Great for Kids
This dish is a hit with kids! The creamy cheese and familiar flavors make it appealing, and it’s a fantastic way to introduce them to healthy ingredients like broccoli without any fuss.
Essential Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Chicken
Every ingredient in Broccoli Cheddar Chicken plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of flavor and texture. The creamy cheese sauce harmonizes beautifully with the tender chicken and crisp broccoli, making each bite a delightful experience.
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts – This is the main protein for our dish. Tender and juicy, it serves as the foundation for all the delicious toppings.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors of the chicken and other ingredients.
- ½ teaspoon pepper – Adds a bit of warmth and depth to the overall taste.
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cheddar cheese soup – The creamy heart of this dish, it ensures a luscious coating over the chicken.
- 1 cup milk – Helps to thin out the soup while adding creaminess.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded – This cheesy goodness elevates the flavor and adds gooeyness.
- ½ teaspoon paprika – Gives a bit of color and a subtle smokiness.
- ½ teaspoon granulated onion powder – Adds a hint of onion flavor without overpowering the dish.
- 12 ounces frozen broccoli florets, defrosted – The star vegetable, bringing color and nutrients.
- 1 cup crushed Ritz style crackers – These add a delightful crunch on top, making the dish comforting yet sophisticated.
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter – Binds the cracker topping, ensuring it gets nice and golden.
Recipe Directions for Broccoli Cheddar Chicken
Making Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is a straightforward process that results in a hearty and satisfying meal. Follow these steps and get ready to enjoy a comforting dish!
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This is important for ensuring even cooking throughout the dish.
- Spray a 13 x 9 x 2-inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray and set aside. This prevents anything from sticking to the bottom.
- Place 2 pounds of boneless skinless chicken breasts in the prepared pan. Ensure they are evenly spaced for even cooking.
- Season the chicken with ½ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of pepper. This will infuse the chicken with flavor.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 (10.5-ounce) can of condensed cheddar cheese soup, 1 cup of milk, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, ½ teaspoon of paprika, and ½ teaspoon of granulated onion powder. Stir until everything is well combined. This mixture creates the creamy sauce that will envelop the chicken.
- Pour half of the cheese mixture over the chicken, ensuring it covers the pieces evenly.
- Now, sprinkle 12 ounces of defrosted frozen broccoli florets over the cheese mixture, distributing it evenly.
- Pour the remaining cheese mixture over the broccoli. This creates layers of flavor that meld beautifully while baking.
- In a small bowl, mix together 1 cup of crushed Ritz style crackers and 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter. Stir until the crackers are well coated.
- Sprinkle the cracker mixture over the top of everything in the casserole dish. This will give a delightful crunch to the finished dish.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbling. Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Things Worth Knowing
- Chicken Thickness: If you use larger chicken breasts, consider slicing them thinner for even cooking.
- Broccoli Preparation: Make sure to defrost your broccoli beforehand for quicker cooking and a better texture.
- Cheese Options: While cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as Monterey Jack or Gouda for a different flavor.
- Check Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is thoroughly cooked.
Helpful Hints
Cooking is all about finding shortcuts and making your life easier. Here are some helpful tips to make your Broccoli Cheddar Chicken experience even better!
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Freezing: Freeze any leftover casserole in a freezer-safe dish for later enjoyment. Just thaw and reheat!
- Pairing: Serve with a fresh garden salad or crusty bread to round out the meal.
- Meal Prep: Make this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it; just add about ten extra minutes to the baking time.
- Vegetable Variations: Add other vegetables such as carrots or cauliflower for added nutrition and variety!
Serving Options for Broccoli Cheddar Chicken
When it comes to serving Broccoli Cheddar Chicken, you have plenty of options to make it even more delightful!
- Family Style: Serve directly from the casserole dish at the dining table for a cozy, family-oriented meal.
- Accompanied by Sides: Pair with steamed rice or mashed potatoes to complement the creamy flavors.
- Ideal for Gatherings: Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, where everyone can enjoy a comforting dish.
- Seasonal Flavors: Feel free to adapt the recipe with seasonal vegetables that you have on hand.
- Perfect for Kids: Serve with a side of fruit for a balanced meal that appeals to children.
- Freezer Meals: Make extra portions to have on hand for busy weeknights!
FAQ
Conclusion
In conclusion, Broccoli Cheddar Chicken stands out as a truly special comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. Whether enjoyed on a busy weeknight or shared during family gatherings, this dish is sure to delight. I encourage you to try making it tonight; it may just become a cherished family favorite in your home!
Broccoli Cheddar Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This is important for ensuring even cooking throughout the dish.
- Spray a 13 x 9 x 2-inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray and set aside. This prevents anything from sticking to the bottom.
- Place 2 pounds of boneless skinless chicken breasts in the prepared pan. Ensure they are evenly spaced for even cooking.
- Season the chicken with ½ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of pepper. This will infuse the chicken with flavor.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 (10.5-ounce) can of condensed cheddar cheese soup, 1 cup of milk, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, ½ teaspoon of paprika, and ½ teaspoon of granulated onion powder. Stir until everything is well combined. This mixture creates the creamy sauce that will envelop the chicken.
- Pour half of the cheese mixture over the chicken, ensuring it covers the pieces evenly.
- Now, sprinkle 12 ounces of defrosted frozen broccoli florets over the cheese mixture, distributing it evenly.
- Pour the remaining cheese mixture over the broccoli. This creates layers of flavor that meld beautifully while baking.
- In a small bowl, mix together 1 cup of crushed Ritz style crackers and 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter. Stir until the crackers are well coated.
- Sprinkle the cracker mixture over the top of everything in the casserole dish. This will give a delightful crunch to the finished dish.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbling. Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Notes
- If using larger chicken breasts: slice them thinner so they cook faster.
