This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is a tasty dish that combines juicy chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy cheddar cheese. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
The cheese melts so perfectly, making everything extra delightful. I love to serve it with rice or pasta—it’s a hit every time at the dinner table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts really work best here. If you’d prefer a different protein, turkey cutlets or even firm tofu can be excellent substitutes for a twist!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds great flavor and nutrition. If you can’t find fresh, frozen chopped broccoli is a nice alternative—just thaw and drain any excess water before using.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a wonderful punch of flavor. If you’re looking for a milder taste, feel free to use regular cheddar. For a dairy-free option, look for vegan cheddar shreds available at many grocery stores.
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise keeps everything creamy and moist. Greek yogurt can work well too, giving a tangy flavor and a boost of protein. Just know it might make the dish a bit lighter.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken is key. The goal is juicy, tender meat. Here are tips for success:
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps keep the juices inside.
- If your chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, consider pounding them to an even size before seasoning and cooking.
- Don’t rush the broiling step—watch closely, as it can go from perfect to burnt fast!
Broccoli Cheddar Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
You will need about 10 minutes for preparation and around 25-30 minutes for baking. In total, expect it to take about 40 minutes from start to finish. This dish is quick and packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take a baking dish and lightly grease it with olive oil or cooking spray—this will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Season the Chicken:
Next, season those chicken breasts! Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika (if using) evenly on both sides of the chicken. This will add great flavor.
3. Mix the Topping:
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, the shredded cheddar cheese (setting aside ¼ cup for later), and the finely chopped broccoli. Mix everything well until it’s all nicely combined.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in your greased baking dish. Now, spread the broccoli-cheddar mixture evenly over each chicken breast. Make sure they’re covered well for that cheesy goodness!
5. Add More Cheese:
Sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese over the top of your broccoli-cheddar mixture. This will create a delicious, gooey topping as it bakes!
6. Bake It:
Put the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You want the chicken to be fully cooked (when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F/75°C) and the topping golden and bubbling. If you like, you can switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes for an extra crispy top—just watch it closely!
7. Rest and Serve:
Once it’s done, remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy. Serve warm alongside steamed broccoli and some crusty bread or your favorite side dish.
Enjoy your delicious, cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before mixing it with the other ingredients. This ensures your dish won’t turn out watery.
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you want a lighter option, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream. Both will maintain creaminess while adding a tangy flavor. For a dairy-free choice, try using a vegan mayo alternative.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave until heated through. You might want to add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist while reheating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or even cauliflower for added nutrition and flavor. Just ensure they’re finely chopped and blanched if necessary so they cook evenly.
