Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

Growing up, my family had a few go-to meals that made any weeknight feel special. One of those was my mom’s Broccoli Cheddar Chicken. It wasn’t just a wholesome dish; it was a hug on a plate. I can still remember the aroma wafting through the house as it baked in the oven. The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and vibrant broccoli always felt like a celebration of flavors. Fast forward to today, and I find myself making this dish for my own family, creating memories that mirror those of my childhood. No matter how hectic the day has been, serving a plate of Broccoli Cheddar Chicken feels like a warm embrace, reminding us of home and comfort. When you take that first bite, the creamy texture mixed with the crunch of broccoli is nothing short of magical. That’s what makes this recipe so special. It has a way of bringing everyone together around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter.

Key Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

At the heart of Broccoli Cheddar Chicken are simple, wholesome ingredients that work together beautifully. Each component plays a vital role in creating a balanced and flavorful dish. The combination of chicken, broccoli, and creamy cheeses creates a satisfying meal that is both nutritious and comforting.

• 1 pound of chicken breasts: Use thinly sliced for quicker cooking and better flavor absorption.
• 1/3 cup plain, nonfat Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess without the extra fat, making it a healthier choice.
• 4 wedges of Laughing Cow cheese: Provides a delightful creaminess that melts beautifully.
• 2 ounces of grated sharp cheddar cheese: Offers a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
• 2 cups of small broccoli florets: Essential for that nutritious crunch and vibrant color.
• 1 green onion: Adds a fresh flavor that brightens up the dish.
• Salt and pepper: Basic but crucial for enhancing all the flavors.
• 3/4 teaspoon onion powder: A secret flavor booster that elevates the dish.

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

Making Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is as enjoyable as eating it! Each step is straightforward, and the results are nothing short of delicious. Let’s dive into the cooking process together!

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly. As the oven heats, you can focus on prepping the dish.

2. Next, take a casserole or a 9×9 baking dish and spray it with cooking spray. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze later.

3. Now, grab your chicken. Salt and pepper both sides generously. This step is vital as it infuses flavor right into the meat. Once seasoned, carefully place the chicken into the prepared baking dish, making sure to set it aside for a moment.

4. In a separate bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, Laughing Cow cheese, cheddar cheese, steamed broccoli, chopped green onion, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Stir well until all ingredients are fully mixed. This mixture will create that creamy topping that makes this dish so satisfying.

5. Once mixed, take the creamy filling and divide it evenly across the seasoned chicken in the baking dish. Make sure every piece is well-covered for maximum flavor.

6. Now it’s time to bake! Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it cook for about 20 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on it; the chicken should reach an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

7. When the timer goes off, carefully remove the dish from the oven. The top should be golden, and the aroma will be mouthwatering! Let it sit for a couple of minutes to cool slightly before serving.

8. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of Broccoli Cheddar Chicken. It’s perfect over rice or with a side salad.

Tips and Tricks about Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

Here are some valuable tips to elevate your Broccoli Cheddar Chicken experience. With these tricks, you’ll be able to impress your family and friends!

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently to preserve the creamy texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish before baking. Just cover it tightly and place it in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
• Pairing: Serve with a side of brown rice or quinoa to make it a complete meal. A fresh garden salad also complements it beautifully.
• Variations: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Cheese Options: Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella or gouda for unique flavors.

Perfect Pairings for Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

The beauty of Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is its versatility in pairing! Here are some great ideas to consider:

• Side Dishes: Pair with steamed rice or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. The creamy sauce complements starchy sides perfectly.
• Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables or a fresh salad can add a nice crunch and balance the creaminess of the dish.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even potlucks. It’s always a hit!
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.
• Seasonal Pairings: In the fall, consider pairing with roasted squash or in the summer with fresh tomatoes for a delightful twist.

FAQ

Conclusion

This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken recipe is truly a standout dish that combines comfort and nutrition perfectly. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it will undoubtedly become a favorite in your household. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s not just a meal, but a way to create lasting memories with your loved ones around the dinner table.

Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying! Packed with tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, this easy weeknight dinner is sure to become a family favorite. You'll want to make it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 242 kcal

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Wooden Spoon
• Grater
• Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound chicken breasts Get 4 of the thinly sliced ones, or use two and slice them yourself.
• 1/3 cup plain, nonfat Greek yogurt
• 4 wedges Laughing Cow cheese Light version adds creaminess without the fat.
• 2 ounces grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cups small broccoli florets Steamed for best texture.
• 1 green onion chopped
• salt & pepper to taste salt and pepper
• 3/4 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

 

• Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly. As the oven heats, you can focus on prepping the dish.
• Next, take a casserole or a 9×9 baking dish and spray it with cooking spray. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze later.
• Now, grab your chicken. Salt and pepper both sides generously. This step is vital as it infuses flavor right into the meat. Once seasoned, carefully place the chicken into the prepared baking dish, making sure to set it aside for a moment.
• In a separate bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, Laughing Cow cheese, cheddar cheese, steamed broccoli, chopped green onion, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Stir well until all ingredients are fully mixed. This mixture will create that creamy topping that makes this dish so satisfying.
• Once mixed, take the creamy filling and divide it evenly across the seasoned chicken in the baking dish. Make sure every piece is well-covered for maximum flavor.
• Now it’s time to bake! Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it cook for about 20 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on it; the chicken should reach an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
• When the timer goes off, carefully remove the dish from the oven. The top should be golden, and the aroma will be mouthwatering! Let it sit for a couple of minutes to cool slightly before serving.
• Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of Broccoli Cheddar Chicken. It’s perfect over rice or with a side salad.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
• Tip 2: You can freeze this dish before baking for easy future meals.
• Tip 3: Pair with a side of rice or salad for a complete meal.
• Tip 4: Add extra vegetables to increase nutrition.
• Tip 5: Experiment with different cheese types for unique flavors.

Keyword Cheddar Chicken Bake, Creamy Broccoli Dish, Easy Dinner Recipe, Healthy Chicken Recipe

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Meet Bella Banks

I’m the one who makes sure we’re having fun while we work. I love the communal aspect of cooking seven friends in a kitchen can be chaotic, but it’s the best kind of chaos! I cook everything alongside the girls, and I’m often the one setting the table and making sure the “vibe” is right for our photos. I believe that any recipe, no matter how simple or complex, is a celebration.