This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is a cozy dish full of tender chicken, yummy broccoli, and rich cheddar cheese. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
The best part? It’s super easy to make, and it brings a smile to everyone at the dinner table. I love serving it with some rice or bread to soak up all the cheesy goodness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. You can substitute with thighs if you like dark meat, which tends to be juicier.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets work best for a bright flavor and nice texture. If you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli can also be used—just make sure to steam it slightly before adding it to your dish.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. If you’re looking for something milder, use medium cheddar or a mix of cheeses like Colby Jack or Monterey Jack.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk could work, but keep in mind the sauce may be less rich. If you’re dairy-free, try coconut cream or a non-dairy milk, thickened with cornstarch.
Breadcrumbs: I prefer using panko for extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can work too. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Tender?
Cooking chicken to the right tenderness can be tricky, but here are a few tips to help you get it just right:
- Start by seasoning your chicken well before cooking. This enhances the flavor!
- Sear the chicken on medium-high heat. This will lock in juices and give it a nice golden color.
- After searing, transfer the skillet directly to the oven. The even heat helps to cook the chicken through without drying it out.
- Using an instant-read thermometer is key; chicken is perfectly cooked at 165°F (74°C).
These techniques ensure that your chicken stays juicy while also helping the flavors shine through. Happy cooking!
Broccoli Cheddar Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed or blanched
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- 1 cup cooked elbow macaroni or small pasta (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for crisp topping)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Broccoli Cheddar Chicken takes about 30 minutes to prepare and about 20 minutes to cook. In total, you can have this comforting meal ready in about 50 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that it’s ready when your dish is assembled and will help with even cooking.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This adds flavor to the chicken.
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear them until they are golden brown on both sides—about 3-4 minutes per side. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring continuously to make a roux. This thickens your sauce.
5. Add the Cream and Broth:
Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens slightly—this should take about 3-5 minutes.
6. Mix in the Cheese:
Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and, if you’re using it, the mozzarella cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season the mixture with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Combine with Broccoli and Macaroni:
Add the steamed broccoli florets and cooked macaroni (if using) to the cheese sauce, mixing well to combine everything together.
8. Nestle the Chicken:
Return the seared chicken breasts back to the skillet, placing them into the creamy broccoli-cheddar mixture so they can soak up all the flavors.
9. Add the Crunchy Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the chicken breasts for a crispy topping.
10. Bake:
Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the topping is golden brown.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Spoon a little extra sauce over each chicken breast, and enjoy your rich, comforting Broccoli Cheddar Chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and steam the frozen broccoli before adding it to the cheese sauce. This will help achieve that lovely texture and flavor in the dish.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream to maintain the sauciness.
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Gouda, Gruyere, or even pepper jack can add a unique twist and flavor profile to your dish.
Is There a Low-Carb Option for This Recipe?
For a low-carb alternative, you can skip the macaroni and serve the broccoli cheddar chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad instead. This way, you still get that creamy goodness without the carbs!
