When it comes to quick, hearty dinners, nothing beats cheesy chicken broccoli. This creamy and savory dish combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and melted cheese for the ultimate comfort food. Ready to learn how to make it even better? Let’s dive right in!
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4 Reasons to Love Cheesy Chicken Broccoli
This timeless dish isn’t just a family favorite by chance—there are plenty of reasons why it’s loved across kitchens everywhere.
1. A One-Pan Wonder
With its one-pan preparation, cheesy chicken broccoli is perfect for busy weeknights. Fewer dishes mean more time relaxing (and less time scrubbing).
2. Nutritious Comfort Food
Packed with protein from chicken and fiber-rich broccoli, this meal isn’t just comforting—it’s also nutrient dense. A cheesy, indulgent forkful never felt healthier!
3. Customizable For Every Diet
Whether you’re keto, gluten-free, or just counting calories, this dish can easily be modified. Use low-fat cheese, swap cream for almond milk, or add zucchini instead of rice—the possibilities are endless.
4. Perfect for Meal Prepping
Cheesy chicken broccoli reheats like a dream, making it the perfect dish to whip up in big batches. Freeze portions for easy weeknight meals or meal-prep your lunches for work.
Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli
Everything you need for this recipe is simple, affordable, and likely already in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need before you start cooking:
Main Ingredients
- Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for juicy perfection.
- Broccoli: Fresh is ideal, but frozen broccoli will work in a pinch.
- Cheese: Cheddar is the star, but mozzarella or Monterey Jack can add a twist.
Optional Base Additions
- Rice (white or brown)
- Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
- Pasta, like penne or elbow macaroni
Sauce Ingredients
- Heavy cream or whole milk
- Chicken broth for a lighter, flavorful base
- Butter for richness
- Flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free) for thickening
- Garlic, onion powder, and paprika for seasoning
Pro Tip: Quality cheese matters! Shred your cheese fresh—pre-shredded varieties often contain preservatives that can affect melting.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli
Making cheesy chicken broccoli isn’t hard, and with five simple methods, you can choose the one that best fits your kitchen routine.
Method 1: Stovetop Cheesy Chicken Broccoli
- Prep the Chicken & Broccoli: Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Steam broccoli until tender.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat butter in a skillet. Sear chicken until golden, about 4-5 minutes per side. Set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter. Add flour and whisk until combined. Slowly add chicken broth and milk. Whisk until thickened.
- Add Cheese & Assemble: Stir in shredded cheese, then combine chicken and broccoli. Let simmer for 2 minutes.
Method 2: Oven-Baked Casserole
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Layer cooked rice (or pasta) in a baking dish. Add broccoli and seared chicken.
- Pour prepared cheese sauce over the mixture, top with extra cheese, and bake for 20 minutes until bubbly.
Method 3: Instant Pot Perfection
- Add chicken, broth, and seasonings to the Instant Pot. Cook for 10 minutes (manual high pressure).
- Use the sauté function to create the sauce, stir in the cheese, then mix with steamed broccoli.
Method 4: Slow Cooker Simplicity
- Place all ingredients except cheese in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours.
- Stir in the cheese 30 minutes before serving for a creamy finish.
Method 5: Air Fryer Twist (Low Carb)
- Layer seasoned chicken, steamed broccoli, and cheese in an oven-safe dish that fits into your air fryer.
- Air fry at 350°F for 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
Make it Quick: To save time, use a bag of frozen, steamable broccoli and pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli
Now that your dish is ready, the question is: how do you serve it? Good news—cheesy chicken broccoli is incredibly versatile!
1. Over Carb-Loaded Sides
- Mashed potatoes for a hearty, indulgent pairing.
- Buttered egg noodles for a kid-friendly twist.
- Garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce.
2. Low Carb Options
- Serve over cauliflower rice for a keto-approved plate.
- Pair with a simple, fresh side salad for balance.
3. Vegan Alternative Inspiration
If cooking for plant-based eaters, explore vegan baking classes for ideas. Use vegan cheese and plant-based chicken substitutes to make a crowd-pleasing variation.
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Recipe
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless chicken breasts or thighs cubed
- 3 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour or cornstarch for GF
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- 2 cups cooked rice/pasta or cauliflower rice
Instructions
Stovetop Method:
- Cook Chicken: Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear in butter over medium heat until golden (5 mins/side). Set aside.
- Steam Broccoli: Blanch broccoli in boiling water for 2 mins or steam until tender. Drain.
- Make Sauce: In the same pan, melt butter. Whisk in flour, then gradually add broth and cream. Simmer until thickened (3–4 mins).
- Combine: Stir in cheese until melted. Add chicken and broccoli. Simmer 2 mins. Serve hot.
Oven Method:
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Layer cooked rice, chicken, and broccoli in a baking dish.
- Pour cheese sauce over top, sprinkle extra cheese, and bake for 20 mins until bubbly.
Instant Pot/Slow Cooker Notes:
- Instant Pot: Cook chicken + broth on High Pressure (10 mins), then stir in sauce ingredients using Sauté mode.
- Slow Cooker: Combine all ingredients (except cheese) and cook on Low 6–7 hours. Add cheese last 30 mins.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Fat | 22g |
| Carbs | 18g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Protein | 35g |
| Sodium | 650mg |
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for cheesy chicken broccoli?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and pat dry before using to avoid extra moisture.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare fully, but wait to add the cheese until reheating for best results.
What’s the best way to reheat cheesy chicken broccoli?
Microwave individual portions or use the stovetop for even heating. Avoid overcooking to keep the broccoli from becoming mushy.
Can I adapt this recipe for vegetarians?
Swap the chicken for tofu, chickpeas, or seitan, and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Conclusion
Now it’s your turn to make this comfort classic your own. Follow the methods outlined above, experiment with seasonings, and serve it up with your favorite sides for a truly unforgettable meal.
Here’s what you can do next:
- Try the recipe today: Gather your ingredients, pick your favorite method, and get cooking.
- Share your experience: Let your friends and family in on the cheesy goodness.
- Follow our tips: For more wholesome, family-friendly recipes, explore other ideas on Quick Dessert Recipes!
Cheesy chicken broccoli isn’t just a meal—it’s the warm hug you didn’t know you needed.
Want more recipes? Protein balls or check out our last post Chicken Tinga Tacos