Are you in search of a wholesome meal that offers both comfort and nutrition? Look no further than the classic Chicken Broccoli Bake. This timeless dish combines tender chicken pieces with vibrant broccoli, all nestled within a creamy sauce and topped with a golden crust.
Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a meal prep solution, it's a one-dish wonder that's sure to leave everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Table of Contents
Why This Recipe Works
Simplicity Meets Taste: One of the standout features of this Chicken Broccoli Bake is its simplicity. You're essentially merging everyday ingredients to produce a mouth-watering, hearty dish. You don't need advanced cooking techniques or rare ingredients; just straightforward steps and familiar kitchen staples. Despite its simplicity, the end result is a flavorful, aromatic dish that can rival restaurant-quality mains.
Balanced & Wholesome: This bake isn't just about taste; it's also about nutrition. Broccoli is a powerhouse vegetable, rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. When paired with protein-rich chicken and enveloped in a creamy sauce, you get a balanced meal that satisfies both your taste buds and nutritional needs. Plus, it's filling! This means you get a satisfying meal that keeps you full, making it perfect for those aiming for a healthier diet without compromising on flavor.
Ingredients
Chicken Breasts - A lean and versatile meat. Use boneless and skinless for this dish. If unavailable, you can use chicken thighs but adjust cooking time accordingly.
Broccoli - Adds a burst of green and a nutritious crunch. Fresh broccoli is preferred, but frozen can be used if thawed and drained.
Cream of Chicken Soup - Provides creaminess and flavor. If you want to substitute, cream of mushroom or celery soup can work.
Cheddar Cheese - Melty and rich, it binds the ingredients and adds creaminess. Feel free to use mozzarella or a cheese blend if you prefer.
Breadcrumbs - Gives a crispy topping. If unavailable, crushed crackers or even potato chips can be used.
Tips
- For the juiciest chicken, avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to 165°F (74°C).
- If using frozen broccoli, ensure it's fully thawed and drained to avoid a watery bake.
- For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or garlic to the mix.
- If you like a spicier dish, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the mixture.
- Let the bake sit for about 5 minutes after taking it out of the oven. This helps the flavors meld and makes serving easier.
How to Serve
The Chicken Broccoli Bake is a hearty and fulfilling Dinnerthat's perfect for both weekday dinners and special occasions. Its creamy texture paired with the juicy chicken and the crunch of the broccoli makes it a favorite among many.
- Salad: Pair it with a fresh garden salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette to balance out the creamy richness of the bake.
- Bread: Serve with some garlic bread or fresh rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Rice or Quinoa: Spoon the bake over a bed of cooked rice or quinoa to make it even more filling.
Similar Recipes
Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
Chicken Broccoli Bake
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine diced chicken, broccoli, and cream of chicken soup.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Top with breadcrumbs for a crispy finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the top is golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
- For the juiciest chicken, avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to 165°F (74°C).
- If using frozen broccoli, ensure it's fully thawed and drained to avoid a watery bake.
- For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or garlic to the mix.
- If you like a spicier dish, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the mixture.
- Let the bake sit for about 5 minutes after taking it out of the oven. This helps the flavors meld and makes serving easier.