Save to Pinterest A comforting, creamy casserole featuring tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a golden cheddar cheese topping—perfect for a family dinner or potluck.
This dish quickly became a favorite in our household due to its ease and delicious flavor.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken breast: 2 cups, diced or shredded
- Fresh broccoli florets: 3 cups
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons
- All purpose flour: 2 tablespoons
- Whole milk: 1 cup
- Low sodium chicken broth: 1/2 cup
- Dijon mustard: 1 teaspoon
- Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Onion powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Sharp cheddar cheese: 1 1/2 cups shredded divided
- Panko breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/4 teaspoon optional
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 375℉ (190℃). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Step 2:
- Steam or blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2 3 minutes until just tender and bright green. Drain and set aside.
- Step 3:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly.
- Step 4:
- Gradually add the milk and chicken broth, whisking to prevent lumps. Cook for 3 4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Step 5:
- Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat.
- Step 6:
- Add 1 cup of cheddar cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
- Step 7:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, blanched broccoli, and cheese sauce. Mix well.
- Step 8:
- Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Step 9:
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese over the top.
- Step 10:
- In a small bowl, toss panko breadcrumbs with olive oil (and red pepper flakes if using), then sprinkle over the casserole.
- Step 11:
- Bake for 25 30 minutes until bubbling and the top is golden brown.
- Step 12:
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Save to Pinterest This recipe brings our family together every time we share it at the dinner table.
Notes
Add cooked rice or quinoa to make it a heartier one dish meal Pair with a crisp Chardonnay or a light salad
Required Tools
9x13 inch baking dish Medium saucepan Mixing bowls Whisk Steamer or pot for blanching broccoli
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (cheese, milk, butter) Wheat (flour, panko) If using store bought chicken broth or other processed ingredients, check for hidden allergens
Save to Pinterest This Chicken & Broccoli Cheddar Bake is a simple but satisfying meal that is sure to please every time.
Answers to Recipe Questions
- → Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, thaw and drain frozen broccoli before adding it to maintain texture and avoid excess moisture.
- → What can I substitute for chicken broth in the sauce?
Vegetable broth or water can be used as alternatives, but broth adds more depth to the flavor.
- → How do I get a crispy topping on the bake?
Toss panko breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over the top before baking for a crunchy, golden crust.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the bake and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking; increase baking time slightly if baking cold.
- → What sides pair well with this creamy chicken and broccoli dish?
A light salad or a crisp white wine like Chardonnay balances the richness nicely.