Chicken Broccoli Bake Recipe

Introduction

This Chicken Broccoli Bake is a creamy, comforting dish perfect for a weeknight dinner. Packed with tender broccoli, chicken, and melted cheese, it comes together quickly and pleases the whole family.

Ingredients

• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp pepper
• 1 1/2 cups chopped, cooked chicken
• 1/4 cup grated cheese (for topping)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch casserole dish and set aside.
2. Step 2: Prepare the broccoli by steaming it. Bring about 2 inches of water to a rolling boil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and steam for about 2 minutes, or until fork tender. Drain the water and return the broccoli to the pan, then set aside.
3. Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Stir in the garlic powder, sea salt, and pepper. Add the grated cheddar cheese and chopped cooked chicken, then fold in the steamed broccoli until well combined.
4. Step 4: Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of grated cheese evenly on top.
5. Step 5: Bake in the oven for 15 minutes. Then switch the oven to broil and broil for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese topping is bubbly and slightly browned.
6. Step 6: Remove from the oven and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh or frozen broccoli based on what you have; just make sure to steam frozen broccoli thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
• Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes for a bit of spice.
• Swap cheddar for mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different cheese flavor.

Storage

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. To keep the topping crispy, reheat uncovered in the oven.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use raw chicken in this recipe?

No, the recipe calls for cooked chicken. Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time and ensure even cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Adjust baking time slightly if baking from cold.

Chicken Broccoli Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 113 reviews

This Chicken Broccoli Bake is a creamy, cheesy casserole perfect for a comforting meal. Tender steamed broccoli combined with cooked chicken, cream cheese, mayonnaise, and cheddar cheese is baked until bubbly and golden brown, making it a delicious and easy one-dish dinner.

• Author: Clara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1 1/2 cups chopped, cooked chicken
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated cheese (for topping the casserole)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Casserole Dish: Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9 x 9-inch casserole dish using avocado spray or your preferred non-stick spray and set aside.
2. Steam Broccoli: Place a large saucepan with about 2 inches of water over medium-high heat. When the water reaches a rolling boil, add the broccoli florets. Let them steam for approximately 2 minutes until fork-tender. Drain the broccoli and return it to the saucepan, then set aside.
3. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth. Stir in garlic powder, sea salt, and pepper. Add the grated cheddar cheese and chopped cooked chicken. Finally, fold in the steamed broccoli until all ingredients are well blended.
4. Assemble Casserole: Pour the chicken and broccoli mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of grated cheese evenly over the top.
5. Bake and Broil: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. After baking, switch the oven to broil and broil for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese topping is bubbling and browned in spots. Watch closely to prevent burning.
6. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and serve warm for best taste and texture.
7. Storage: Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Notes

• Ensure broccoli is steamed just until tender to avoid mushiness.
• You can use rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken leftovers.
• To make it lower fat, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt and use reduced-fat cream cheese and cheddar.
• For a gluten-free version, confirm all ingredients such as mayonnaise and cheese are gluten-free certified.
• Watch carefully during broiling to prevent cheese from burning.

Keywords: Chicken broccoli bake, cheesy chicken casserole, broccoli casserole, baked chicken dish, easy family dinner