This Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Bake is the ultimate comfort food! Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep. Whether you’re using rice, pasta, or just sticking with the chicken and broccoli, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup cooked rice or pasta (optional for a heartier bake)
• 1 cup milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp paprika (optional)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
• 2 tbsp melted butter (for breadcrumbs)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish (about 9×9 inches or similar size).

Step 2: Steam the Broccoli

Steam the broccoli florets until just tender, about 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the following:

• Cooked chicken
• Steamed broccoli
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Cooked rice or pasta (if using)
• Milk (or heavy cream)
• Sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Minced garlic
• Onion powder
• Paprika (optional)
• Salt and black pepper

Stir everything together until well combined. The mixture should be creamy and well-coated.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Transfer the chicken and broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter until they are well coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the bake.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dish is bubbling.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Let the bake cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm as a hearty, cheesy meal!

Optional Variations:

• Bacon: Add crispy bacon bits to the filling for extra flavor and crunch.
• Different Cheese Blend: Swap the cheddar for a blend of mozzarella and Monterey Jack for a creamier, meltier texture.
• Add More Veggies: Consider adding other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.

Q&A Section:

Q: Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

A: Yes, using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great option! It will save you time and still provide a delicious flavor.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! You can assemble the bake, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed.

Q: Can I freeze this dish?

A: Yes, you can freeze this cheesy chicken and broccoli bake. After assembling it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual.

Q: What’s a good substitute for sour cream or Greek yogurt?

A: You can use cream cheese or heavy cream as a substitute if you prefer a richer, creamier texture. If you want a lighter version, consider using plain yogurt or low-fat sour cream.

Q: How can I make this dish spicier?

A: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the filling for a spicy kick. You could also add some hot sauce to the sauce mixture.

Q: Can I use a different type of vegetable?

A: Yes! If you’re not a fan of broccoli, you can swap it for other vegetables like cauliflower, spinach, or even zucchini. Just make sure they’re cooked and tender before adding them to the mixture.

Q: What kind of breadcrumbs should I use for the topping?

A: You can use Panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch, or regular breadcrumbs for a softer topping. You could even use crushed crackers or cornflakes for an interesting twist!

Conclusion

This Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Bake is a delicious, creamy comfort food that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding the whole family. Packed with protein and cheesy goodness, it’s a satisfying dish that you can customize with your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re adding bacon, a different cheese blend, or even extra veggies, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy! 🍽️

Feel free to adjust based on your preferences! If you need more ideas or have any more questions, just let me know!