Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is a warm and cheesy dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and rich cheddar cheese. It’s like a hug in a bowl!
Cooking this dish is a breeze! I love to enjoy it with some rice or crusty bread. It’s a perfect way to sneak in those veggies and enjoy a comforting meal! 🥦🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe as they cook quickly and absorb flavors wonderfully. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use chicken thighs for more juiciness.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds vibrant color and crunch, but frozen broccoli is a great time-saver and just as nutritious. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a fantastic flavor kick. For a milder taste, you can use mild cheddar, or try a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for variety.
Mayonnaise: It adds creaminess and helps the cheese melt smoothly. If you’re watching calories, Greek yogurt can be a tangy and healthy substitute.
Spices: The combo of garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika brings depth. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works fine, or even a pinch of cayenne for some heat!
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Getting chicken to be perfectly cooked yet juicy can be tricky. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by seasoning your chicken well. This enhances the flavor right from the beginning.
- Searing the chicken in a hot skillet for a few minutes helps create a nice crust. Remember, you only want a golden color; the chicken will finish cooking in the oven.
- When baking, give your chicken about 20-25 minutes in the oven. Use a meat thermometer to check that it’s reached 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps keep it juicy as it cools slightly.
Broccoli Cheddar Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- Chopped parsley or dried herbs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 25 minutes to cook. Total time is about 35 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial so that your chicken will cook evenly and thoroughly.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika (if using). This will enhance the flavor of the chicken.
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil or butter. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown. Don’t worry if they aren’t fully cooked through; they’ll finish cooking in the oven!
4. Prepare the Broccoli:
While the chicken is searing, lightly steam the broccoli florets until they are just tender, which takes about 3-4 minutes. If you’re using frozen broccoli, make sure to drain any excess water after steaming.
5. Mix Mayo and Cheese:
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and shredded cheddar cheese. This mixture will give your dish a creamy and cheesy texture.
6. Assemble the Dish:
Place the seared chicken breasts in a baking dish. Generously spread the mayo-cheddar mixture over each piece of chicken.
7. Add the Broccoli:
Distribute the steamed broccoli evenly on top of each chicken breast, gently pressing it into the cheese mixture for a good hold.
8. Add More Cheese (Optional):
If you love cheese as much as I do, sprinkle some extra shredded cheddar on top for an even cheesier finish!
9. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
10. Rest and Garnish:
Once done, take it out of the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or dried herbs for a pop of color and flavor.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Broccoli Cheddar Chicken hot, alongside rice, mashed potatoes, or any side dish of your choice. Enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well in this dish. Just make sure to thaw and drain it to avoid excess moisture. You can steam it briefly before adding it to the chicken for the best results.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking to lighten things up, Greek yogurt makes a great substitute for mayonnaise. It adds creaminess and a tangy flavor. You can also use sour cream for a richer taste.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or oven until heated through. You may want to add a splash of milk or extra cheese if it gets a little dry.
Can I Prep This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time! Assemble the chicken with the mayo-cheddar mixture and broccoli, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook it.
