Easy Broccoli Chicken Bake

Okay folks, lemme tell you a story. This Easy Broccoli Chicken Bake is nothing short of a miracle in my household. Picture this: you come home after the longest day ever, and you need something that doesn’t involve a thousand steps or a degree in culinary arts. This dish is here to save you. Packed with chicken (for when you’re craving protein), broccoli (because veggies), and some other yum, this bake is comfy and cozy on a rainy Wednesday or, let’s get real, any day you want. Trust me, you need it in your meal rotation.

Now, let me spill some tea. My hubby swears he could eat this every single day — and honestly, he has. I’ve caught him sneaking bites straight from the dish before we even sit down at the table. It’s become such a family favorite that the kids even argue over who gets the last piece. How many green things can do that, right? Somewhere along the way, it transformed from a meal into a little piece of our family’s food culture.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Broccoli Chicken Bake

Alright, list time! Ready?
1. No fancy techniques. ‘Cause really, who’s got time for that?
2. Broccoli and cheese — that classic duo nobody can resist.
3. Requires minimal dirty dishes! Praise be.
4. Super forgiving if you accidentally add too much garlic, which I do, always.
5. It’s the kind of bake that whispers “comfort” as it comes out of the oven.

How to Make It

So here’s the real deal, friend. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F, unless you live dangerously and skip preheating like I did once, resulting in a 20-minute dinner delay. Oopsie. Toss your chunks of chicken and broccoli into a mixing bowl, marveling at your own efficiency. I usually season with salt, pepper, and whatever random herbs I find in the spice cabinet. Got thyme? Use it. None? Meh, skip it.

Next, chuck it all into a baking dish — and I mean chuck in the most loving way possible. Now smother it with cheese. Don’t skimp; more is more in cheese-land. Pop it in the oven and let it hang out in there for about 35 minutes, which is just enough time to clean up the kitchen, or who am I kidding? Watch some Netflix until the cheesy goodness calls.

Ingredient Notes

– Chicken: The trusty protein! I’ve tried breast, thigh, even chopped leftover rotisserie. They all work if you don’t overcook. Dry chicken is not your friend.
– Broccoli: Our green buddy. Fresh is fab, but frozen? Yeah, been there too, and it works in a pinch.
– Cheese: Seriously people, go wild. Cheddar, Swiss, pepper jack. Gourmet or supermarket special, it will love you back.

Recipe Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F for optimal baking behavior.
2. Mix chicken, broccoli, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Pour mixture into a baking dish and cover generously with cheese.
4. Bake for 35 minutes until bubbly and golden crust forms.
5. Cool for a bit (if you can wait) and then dig in.

What to Serve It With

Might I suggest a crusty bread? Handy for scooping up that cheese sauce that gets all caramel-y at the edges. A simple salad wouldn’t hurt either if you’re feeling super adult about it.

Tips & Mistakes

Storage Tips

Leftovers? (Doubt you’ll have any, but just in case.) Toss them in the fridge. They’re actually pretty stellar the next day either cold, reheated, or, confession, for breakfast. Who says queso can’t be a morning meal?

Variations and Substitutions

Let’s be real, sometimes your fridge is a wasteland. No chicken? Swap with turkey. Not a broccoli fan? Sub in cauliflower, or peas. And that cheese you forgot to buy? Use what’s in the fridge – even cream cheese dollops have magically worked. Just don’t be afraid to mix it up, or as I say, just wing it and pray a little.

Frequently Asked Questions

Easy Broccoli Chicken Bake

This easy broccoli chicken bake is a comforting, cheesy casserole packed with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!

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Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes minutes

Servings: 6

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 3.5 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• ▢ 4 cup broccoli florets fresh or frozen
• ▢ 2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ▢ 1 cup sour cream
• ▢ 0.5 cup mayonnaise
• ▢ 1 tsp garlic powder
• ▢ 0.5 tsp salt
• ▢ 0.25 tsp black pepper freshly ground

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
• In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, broccoli florets, 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
• Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top.
• Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
• Remove from oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated before baking. You can also add sliced mushrooms or chopped onions for extra flavor.