Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my favorite chicken broccoli bake recipe! It’s one of those comforting dishes that brings the whole family together. Imagine tender, juicy chicken mixed with fresh broccoli, all enveloped in a creamy sauce that just sings with flavor. I love how easy it is to throw together—perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies! Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your home too!
Ingredients for Chicken Broccoli Bake Recipe
Gather these simple ingredients to create the ultimate chicken broccoli bake that everyone will love:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (leftover works great!)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, just make sure to thaw if frozen)
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup (for that creamy goodness)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (because who doesn’t love cheese?)
- 1/2 cup milk (to help blend everything together)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for a delightful crispy topping)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (adds a lovely aroma)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t skip this!)
These ingredients combine beautifully, making a dish that’s both hearty and comforting. Get ready to enjoy a cozy meal!
How to Prepare the Chicken Broccoli Bake Recipe
Alright, let’s get cooking! First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when we’re ready to bake. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, broccoli florets, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Don’t forget to sprinkle in that garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined; you want all those flavors to mingle!
Now, spread this delicious mixture evenly in a greased baking dish. I like to use a 9×13 inch dish, but whatever you have on hand will work! Next, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top—because cheese makes everything better, right? Then, add the breadcrumbs for that perfect crispy finish.
Pop it in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top. Keep an eye on it towards the end to make sure it doesn’t over-bake. Once it’s ready, let it cool for a few minutes before serving, as it’ll be super hot and cheesy. Enjoy this comforting dish with your family; it’s sure to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Broccoli Bake Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Rich, creamy sauce that makes every bite irresistible.
- Loaded with protein from the chicken, making it satisfying.
- Fresh broccoli adds a pop of color and nutrition.
- Kid-friendly and a great way to sneak in veggies!
- One-dish meal means less cleanup—score!
- Versatile; feel free to mix in other veggies or spices!
This dish truly delivers on flavor and comfort, making it a family favorite you’ll want to make again and again!
Tips for Success with Chicken Broccoli Bake Recipe
To ensure your chicken broccoli bake turns out perfectly every time, here are a few of my tried-and-true tips! First, using leftover chicken not only saves time but enhances the dish’s flavor, so don’t hesitate to use what you have on hand. For an extra veggie boost, consider adding diced bell peppers or even some carrots to the mix. And don’t skimp on the cheese—more is always better! For presentation, try garnishing with fresh parsley or chives before serving for that pop of color. Lastly, remember to let it cool for a few minutes after baking; it helps with cutting and serving. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Broccoli Bake Recipe
This chicken broccoli bake is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to take it up a notch, here are a few delicious side dishes that pair beautifully! Serve it with a fluffy side of white or brown rice to soak up that creamy sauce. A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a nice contrast, or you could go for some warm, buttery garlic bread for a comforting touch. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Nutritional Information for Chicken Broccoli Bake Recipe
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of this tasty chicken broccoli bake. Keep in mind, these numbers are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fiber: 2g
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein, making it a satisfying meal choice!
FAQ about Chicken Broccoli Bake Recipe
Got questions about this chicken broccoli bake recipe? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
Can I use frozen chicken? Absolutely! Just make sure it’s cooked and shredded before mixing it in. This saves time and works like a charm.
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup? No problem! You can substitute it with cream of chicken soup or even a homemade white sauce for that creamy texture.
Can I add other vegetables? Definitely! Feel free to throw in some diced bell peppers or even spinach. It’s a great way to mix things up.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven for best results!
Is this dish gluten-free? Yes! Just make sure to use gluten-free breadcrumbs, and you’re all set for a delicious gluten-free meal!
Storage & Reheating Instructions for Chicken Broccoli Bake Recipe
Storing your chicken broccoli bake is super simple! Just let it cool completely, then transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil; it should last up to 2 months in the freezer.
When it comes to reheating, I recommend popping it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until it’s heated through. You can also microwave individual servings, but the oven will keep that delicious crispy topping intact. Enjoy your comforting meal again!
For more delicious chicken recipes, check out this cheesy broccoli and chicken casserole or this easy chicken broccoli stir fry.
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Chicken Broccoli Bake Recipe: 7 Comforting Flavor Bombs
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious chicken broccoli bake recipe that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine chicken, broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the mixture in a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Top with breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Notes
- Use leftover chicken for quicker preparation.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers.
- Serve with rice or pasta for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: chicken broccoli bake recipe, chicken casserole, broccoli bake
