Let me tell you, my broccoli bacon cheddar chicken is the ultimate weeknight savior! Whenever I’m in a pinch and need something that’s both quick and delicious, this dish never lets me down. I remember the first time I whipped it up in my tiny kitchen—it was a cozy evening, and I was craving comfort food. The aroma of crispy bacon mingling with creamy cheddar and tender chicken filled the air, and I knew I had struck gold! The best part? It’s so simple to make! Just a handful of ingredients come together to create a flavorful, satisfying meal that my whole family loves. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe close; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
For my delicious broccoli bacon cheddar chicken, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients that pack a ton of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh is best for that vibrant crunch!)
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced (I recommend boneless for easy cooking)
- 4 slices bacon, chopped (because bacon makes everything better!)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (feel free to adjust based on your cheese love!)
- 1/2 cup cream (this adds that rich, velvety texture)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for that extra kick of flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste (always season to your liking!)
Gather these ingredients, and you’re already well on your way to a mouthwatering meal!
How to Prepare Broccoli Bacon Cheddar Chicken
Alright, let’s dive into making this broccoli bacon cheddar chicken that’s sure to impress! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is super important so your dish bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden finish.
- While the oven is warming up, grab a skillet and cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s nice and crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s done, remove the bacon and let it drain on a paper towel.
- In the same skillet, toss in the diced chicken. Cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink in the middle, around 7-10 minutes. This step builds flavor from the bacon drippings!
- Next, add the broccoli florets, cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the chicken. Stir everything together until the broccoli is coated and the mixture is well combined. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the broccoli starts to soften.
- Now, transfer that savory mixture into a baking dish. Top it off with the crispy bacon and shredded cheddar cheese. You can never have too much cheese, right?
- Pop the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Just imagine that cheesy goodness bubbling away!
Once it’s ready, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. You’re going to love every cheesy, crispy bite!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s chat about the nutritional side of my broccoli bacon cheddar chicken. While I believe in enjoying every bite, it’s always good to know what’s in our food! Here’s a rough estimate of what you’re looking at per serving:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Protein: 35g
These values are estimates and can vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes. But one thing’s for sure—this dish is not only tasty but also packed with protein and flavor. Enjoy knowing you’re fueling your body with something delicious!
Tips for Success
Alright, I want you to nail this broccoli bacon cheddar chicken on your first try, so here are some of my top tips!
- Use fresh broccoli: Trust me, fresh florets make a world of difference in flavor and texture. Frozen broccoli just doesn’t have the same bite!
- Watch the bacon: Don’t walk away while it’s cooking! You want it crispy, not burnt, so keep an eye on it for that perfect crunch.
- Season wisely: Taste as you go! If it needs a little more salt or pepper, don’t hesitate to adjust. Every palate is different.
- Cheese it up: Feel free to mix and match cheeses! A bit of gouda or pepper jack can add a fun twist to the flavor profile.
- Let it rest: After baking, give it a few minutes to cool down. It’ll be easier to serve, and the flavors will meld even more!
With these tips, you’re well on your way to making a dish that everyone will be raving about!
Variations
Ready to get creative with your broccoli bacon cheddar chicken? There are so many fun ways to switch things up! Here are a few ideas:
- Different cheeses: Swap out cheddar for mozzarella, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick!
- Protein swaps: Try using shredded rotisserie chicken or turkey for a lighter option, or even diced ham for a savory twist.
- Veggie add-ins: Sneak in some bell peppers, spinach, or even zucchini for extra nutrients and color.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream mixture for a bit of heat!
Feel free to mix and match based on what you have on hand or your personal taste. The possibilities are endless!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Packed with flavor from the crispy bacon and creamy cheddar.
- Healthy veggies like broccoli make it a nutritious choice.
- One-dish wonder means less cleanup and more time to enjoy!
- Customizable options for different tastes and dietary needs.
This broccoli bacon cheddar chicken is a delicious way to please the whole family while keeping things simple and satisfying!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers from your broccoli bacon cheddar chicken? No worries! To store, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s sealed tight to maintain that delicious flavor!
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until it’s warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, popping it in the microwave works too—just cover it with a microwave-safe lid and heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite just like the first time!
FAQ About Broccoli Bacon Cheddar Chicken
Got questions about my broccoli bacon cheddar chicken? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that might pop up:
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Sure, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the skillet. Fresh broccoli does have that delightful crunch, but frozen will work in a pinch.
What can I substitute for cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. Just be mindful that it may alter the creaminess a bit!
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, just assemble everything and cover it tightly. When you’re ready to bake, pop it in the oven and adjust the baking time if it’s coming from the fridge.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you check your bacon and cream for any gluten-containing additives, you’re good to go! This recipe is naturally low carb and gluten-free.
How can I make it spicier?
For a kick, add some chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the mixture. You can also top it with sriracha just before serving for a fiery finish!
With these tips, you’ll be all set to whip up a fantastic broccoli bacon cheddar chicken that suits your taste perfectly!
For more delicious recipes, check out this cheesy broccoli and chicken casserole or this creamy garlic parmesan pasta!
Print
Broccoli Bacon Cheddar Chicken: 5 Mouthwatering Secrets
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
A savory dish combining broccoli, bacon, cheddar cheese, and chicken.
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add diced chicken and cook until browned.
- Add broccoli, cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the chicken. Stir well.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with cheese and bacon.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
Notes
- Use fresh broccoli for best flavor.
- Adjust cheese quantity as desired.
- Substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: broccoli bacon cheddar chicken
