Chicken Broccoli Bake Recipe

Chicken Broccoli Bake Recipe: A Creamy, Cheesy Comfort Food Masterpiece 🍗🥦🧀🔥

1. Introduction

This Chicken Broccoli Bake recipe is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce for a dish that’s both nutritious and indulgent. Perfect for weeknight dinners when you need something quick yet satisfying, or for potluck gatherings where you want to impress, this easy-to-make casserole will quickly become a family favorite. The golden, bubbly cheese topping and the perfect blend of flavors make this chicken broccoli bake recipe a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will love.

If you’re looking for more delicious dinner recipes to add to your weekly meal rotation, this chicken broccoli bake is a fantastic place to start. It’s versatile enough to serve as a main dish but also works beautifully as a hearty side.

2. Ingredients

One of the best things about this chicken broccoli bake recipe is that it uses simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced (rotisserie chicken works great for convenience)
• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head of broccoli)
• 2 tablespoons butter (for that rich, creamy base)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (to thicken the sauce)
• 1 1/2 cups milk (whole milk gives the creamiest results)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar adds more flavor)
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for that perfect stretchy melt)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 cloves fresh minced garlic)
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (adds depth of flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground is best)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping, panko works great)

For those who love cheesy dishes, you might also enjoy our Mexican Mac and Cheese Recipe as another comforting option.

3. Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Spread the diced chicken evenly in the dish, then arrange the broccoli florets on top. If you prefer softer broccoli, you can blanch it for 2 minutes in boiling water first, then shock in ice water to stop the cooking process. The combination of protein-packed chicken and vitamin-rich broccoli makes this chicken broccoli bake recipe both delicious and nutritious – a complete meal in one dish!

If you’re looking for other chicken recipes, check out our Copycat Chicken Bryan Recipe for something a little more gourmet.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until bubbly and fragrant – this cooks out the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the milk, about 1/4 cup at a time, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens (about 3-5 minutes). The sauce should coat the back of a spoon when it’s ready. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This creamy sauce is what makes this chicken broccoli bake recipe so irresistible – it’s like a warm, cheesy hug in every bite!

For more creamy sauce inspiration, take a look at this Allrecipes version of chicken broccoli casserole.

Step 3: Assemble the Bake

Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the chicken and broccoli in the baking dish, making sure to cover all the pieces. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese and all of the mozzarella cheese on top. For extra crunch and texture, you can add breadcrumbs at this stage – mix them with a little melted butter first for better browning. The layers of cheese in this chicken broccoli bake recipe create the perfect golden crust when baked, with that irresistible cheese pull we all love.

If you’re a fan of cheesy, comforting dishes, you might also enjoy our Potato Chip Toffee for dessert – it’s the perfect sweet ending to this savory meal.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned on top. If you want extra browning, you can broil for the last 2-3 minutes – just keep a close eye to prevent burning. Let the chicken broccoli bake stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly and make serving easier. The aroma filling your kitchen will have everyone eagerly awaiting this delicious meal – it’s the kind of smell that brings the whole family to the table!

For a refreshing drink to serve with this rich dish, try our Limoncello Spritz – the citrus notes cut through the richness beautifully.

4. Serving Suggestions

This chicken broccoli bake recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, consider:

• Crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious cheese sauce
• A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness
• Steamed rice or buttered noodles for a heartier meal
• Roasted potatoes or mashed potatoes for ultimate comfort food
• A simple fruit salad for a refreshing contrast

For more meal ideas, check out our breakfast recipes if you want to enjoy this as a brunch casserole.

5. Storage and Reheating

Leftovers from this chicken broccoli bake recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat:

• Microwave: Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through
• Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes
• Air fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 5-7 minutes for crispy topping

You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months – just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The texture of the broccoli may soften slightly after freezing, but the flavor will still be delicious.

6. Variations

One of the best things about this chicken broccoli bake recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some delicious variations to try:

• Add 1 cup sliced mushrooms when assembling
• Mix in diced bell peppers for extra color and crunch
• Substitute half the broccoli with cauliflower florets
• Add cooked bacon or ham for extra smoky flavor
• Try different cheese combinations like Swiss, Gouda, or pepper jack
• Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat
• Stir in 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard for tang
• Top with crushed crackers or French fried onions instead of breadcrumbs

For more creative recipe ideas, browse our dessert recipes to complete your meal.

7. Nutritional Benefits

This chicken broccoli bake recipe provides an excellent balance of nutrients:

• High-quality protein from the chicken to support muscle health
• Vitamin C, K, and fiber from the broccoli for immune support
• Calcium from the cheese for bone health
• Healthy fats from the dairy for satiety

One serving (about 1/6 of the recipe) contains approximately:

• 350 calories
• 30g protein
• 15g carbohydrates
• 20g fat
• 3g fiber

8. Tips for Success

Follow these expert tips to make the best chicken broccoli bake every time:

• Use fresh broccoli for the best texture and flavor – frozen can make the dish watery
• Shred your own cheese from blocks for better melting (pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents)
• Don’t overcook the sauce – it will thicken more in the oven
• Let the bake rest before serving for cleaner slices and thicker sauce
• For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes (watch carefully!)
• If using raw chicken, cook it first before adding to the bake
• For extra flavor, season the chicken with salt and pepper before adding to the dish
• Use a mix of cheeses for more complex flavor

For more cooking tips and recipes, visit our About Me page to learn about our culinary philosophy.

9. Conclusion

This chicken broccoli bake recipe is the perfect combination of simplicity and deliciousness. With its creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and nutritious broccoli, it’s a meal that satisfies both your taste buds and your nutritional needs. Easy to prepare with ingredients you likely have on hand, and always a hit with the whole family, this comforting casserole deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, meal prepping for the week, or bringing a dish to share, this chicken broccoli bake recipe delivers on flavor, comfort, and convenience. The golden, bubbly cheese topping hides a creamy interior packed with protein and vegetables – a complete meal that everyone will love.

Try this chicken broccoli bake recipe tonight and enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness! And don’t forget to check out our Disclaimer and Terms and Conditions for more information about our recipes.

Print