Cheesy Chicken Broccoli
A creamy, one-pan comfort dish featuring tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and melted cheese—perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or customizable diets.
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 |