Chicken Broccoli Bake Recipe

Introduction

This Chicken Broccoli Bake is a comforting, cheesy casserole perfect for a simple weeknight dinner. Combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce, it’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups diced chicken breast
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup cream cheese
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 3/4 cup cheddar cheese, grated
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F and spray a 9×13 baking dish with oil.
2. Step 2: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the diced chicken and broccoli florets, and boil for about 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
3. Step 3: Drain the water and set the chicken and broccoli aside.
4. Step 4: In a large bowl, mix together the cream cheese, mayonnaise, 1/2 cup grated cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
5. Step 5: Add the cooked chicken and broccoli to the cheese mixture. Transfer everything evenly into the prepared baking dish and level the surface.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of grated cheddar cheese on top.
7. Step 7: Bake for 15 minutes, then switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Watch carefully to avoid burning.

Tips & Variations

• Use cooked rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
• Try swapping cheddar for mozzarella or a mix of cheeses for a different taste.
• For added crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes for a subtle smoky or spicy note.

Storage

Store leftover Chicken Broccoli Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through, covering loosely with foil when reheating in the oven to prevent drying out.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used. Thaw and drain it well before boiling to avoid excess moisture in the bake.

Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the mixture and assemble the bake, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Chicken Broccoli Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 68 reviews

This Chicken Broccoli Bake is a creamy, cheesy casserole perfect for a comforting dinner. Tender chicken breast and fresh broccoli are combined with a rich mixture of cream cheese, mayonnaise, and cheddar, then baked to golden perfection. It’s a simple, satisfying dish that’s great for meal prep or family meals.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein and Vegetables

• 1 1/2 cups diced chicken breast
• 4 cups broccoli florets

Dairy and Condiments

• 1/2 cup cream cheese
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided into 1/2 cup and 1/4 cup)

Seasonings

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with oil to prevent sticking.
2. Boil Chicken and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add diced chicken breast and broccoli florets to the boiling water and cook for approximately 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the chicken is thoroughly cooked. Drain well and set aside.
3. Mix Cheese Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken and broccoli to the cheese mixture and stir gently to coat everything evenly. Transfer this mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
5. Add Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake and Broil: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. After baking, switch the oven to broil and broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Notes

• Boiling chicken and broccoli together helps save time and keeps the chicken moist and broccoli tender.
• Using cream cheese and mayonnaise creates a creamy texture without needing a heavy cream or béchamel sauce.
• You can substitute cheddar with any other melty cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
• For a lower-fat version, use light cream cheese and mayonnaise.
• Broiling at the end adds a nice golden crust but watch carefully because cheese can burn quickly.

Keywords: Chicken Broccoli Bake, cheesy chicken casserole, easy baked chicken recipe, broccoli and cheese bake, comfort food casserole