Are you ready to make a delicious, comforting dish that's perfect for family dinners and easy meal preps? This Chicken Broccoli Bake is exactly what you need. It's creamy, cheesy, and packed with nutritious ingredients that will have everyone asking for seconds. Follow along to discover the secrets to creating this mouthwatering dish.

What is Chicken Broccoli Bake?
Chicken Broccoli Bake is a hearty casserole that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, and it’s sure to become a family favorite. This dish brings together simple ingredients and transforms them into a comforting, delicious meal that’s satisfying and nourishing.
Ingredients List for Chicken Broccoli Bake
Before you get started, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups diced chicken breast: This provides the protein and makes the dish hearty.
- 4 cups broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli adds a healthy dose of vegetables and a pleasant crunch.
Sauce Ingredients:
- ½ cup cream cheese: Adds creaminess and richness to the dish.
- 2 tablespoon mayonnaise: Enhances the creamy texture and adds a bit of tang.
- ¾ cup cheddar, grated: Cheese lovers will adore the gooey, melted cheddar throughout the bake.
Seasonings:
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle, aromatic flavor.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory taste.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and complexity.
Substitutions and Variations
Feel free to customize your Chicken Broccoli Bake to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Here are some ideas:
- Protein: Substitute chicken breast with turkey, ham, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Vegetables: Add other veggies like cauliflower, carrots, or bell peppers for more color and nutrition.
- Cheese: Use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella, Swiss, or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
- Low-Fat Option: Replace cream cheese and mayonnaise with low-fat versions or Greek yogurt.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preheat and Prep:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 9x13 baking dish with oil to prevent sticking.
Boil Chicken and Broccoli:
- Boil a large pot of water. Once boiling, add the diced chicken and broccoli florets. Cook for about 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Drain the water and set the chicken and broccoli aside.
Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large bowl, combine ½ cup cream cheese, 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, ½ cup grated cheddar, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Mix until smooth.
Assemble the Bake:
- Mix the cooked chicken and broccoli with the cheese mixture in the baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of cheddar cheese on top for a cheesy crust.
Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then, switch to broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Chicken Broccoli Bake comes out perfectly every time, avoid these common mistakes:
- Overcooking the broccoli: Boil it just until tender to maintain its bright color and slight crunch.
- Skipping the draining step: Make sure to drain the water completely to avoid a watery bake.
- Underseasoning: Be sure to taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary for maximum flavor.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation is key to making your Chicken Broccoli Bake look as good as it tastes. Here are some tips:
How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Bake:
- Serve hot: This dish is best enjoyed straight from the oven while the cheese is still melty and the bake is warm.
- Pair with sides: Serve with a side salad, garlic bread, or rice for a complete meal.
Presentation Ideas for Chicken Broccoli Bake:
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness.
- Use a pretty baking dish: A decorative baking dish can make your bake look more appealing.
Chicken Broccoli Bake Recipe Tips
For an even better Chicken Broccoli Bake, keep these tips in mind:
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli and chicken breast will give you the best flavor and texture.
- Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting; shredding your own gives a smoother result.
- Adjust cooking time: If your bake is browning too quickly, cover it with foil and continue baking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Chicken Broccoli Bake ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the bake ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, simply increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes to ensure it's heated through.
Can I freeze Chicken Broccoli Bake?
Yes, Chicken Broccoli Bake can be frozen. Make sure it’s fully cooled, then cover it tightly with foil and freeze. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) until heated through, about 45 minutes to an hour.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make a healthier version, use low-fat cream cheese and mayonnaise, increase the amount of broccoli, and consider adding other vegetables.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
Greek yogurt is a great substitute for mayonnaise, offering a similar creamy texture with fewer calories and more protein.
Conclusion
This Chicken Broccoli Bake is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. With its creamy, cheesy goodness and nutritious ingredients, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you're making it for a quick weeknight dinner or prepping ahead for busy days, this recipe is easy, versatile, and utterly delicious. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get cooking—your taste buds will thank you!
PrintChicken Broccoli Bake Recipe
This Chicken Broccoli Bake is a delicious and hearty dish featuring diced chicken breast, fresh broccoli, and a creamy sauce made with cream cheese, mayonnaise, and cheddar. The seasonings of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper add an aromatic and savory flavor to the dish. Perfect for a family dinner, this bake is both satisfying and nutritious.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups diced chicken breast
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- Sauce Ingredients:
- ½ cup cream cheese
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- ¾ cup cheddar, grated
- Seasonings:
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the diced chicken breast in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Steam the broccoli florets until tender-crisp.
- In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, mayonnaise, grated cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Combine the cooked chicken and broccoli with the sauce mixture.
- Transfer to a baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, add more cheddar cheese on top before baking.
- You can substitute frozen broccoli if fresh is not available, just ensure it is thawed and drained well.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ of the bake
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
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