Description
This cheesy broccoli chicken bake is a comforting and easy weeknight casserole combining tender cubed chicken breasts, fresh broccoli florets, and a creamy cheese sauce made with heavy cream, cheddar, and Parmesan. It’s loaded with savory garlic and seasoned perfectly for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 lbs (900g) boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy and Cheese
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
Spices and Oils
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking during baking.
- Cook Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes until the pieces are lightly browned on the outside but not fully cooked through.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Assemble Casserole: Place the broccoli florets evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Scatter the cooked chicken and garlic mixture over the broccoli layers.
- Add Cream and Seasonings: Pour the heavy cream evenly over the broccoli and chicken. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, onion powder, salt, and black pepper evenly on top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden on top.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set and make serving easier.
Notes
- For a quicker option, substitute the raw chicken breasts with shredded rotisserie chicken.
- To make the casserole more filling, add cooked rice or quinoa beneath the chicken layer.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American Comfort Food
