This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is a comforting and rich dish that combines tender chicken, creamy cheddar cheese, and vibrant broccoli in every bite. The melty cheese and creamy sauce bring a layer of indulgence, making it a perfect dinner for those chilly evenings. Not only does it taste incredible, but it’s also a meal that can be prepped quickly for a weeknight dinner. The best part? It’s versatile! You can switch up the veggies or add extra toppings like crispy bacon bits for some extra flavor. This dish is sure to be a family favorite for any occasion.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
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2 cups broccoli florets
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/2 cup sour cream
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1/4 cup mayonnaise
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
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While the chicken is cooking, steam the broccoli until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
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In a small bowl, mix the sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
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Place the cooked chicken breasts in a baking dish and spread the sour cream mixture on top of each breast.
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Sprinkle the steamed broccoli over the chicken and top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
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Serve hot and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Broccoli Cheddar Chicken: A Comforting, Creamy Delight
Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is a dish that brings together comfort, flavor, and nutrients in a single, satisfying meal. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that will leave you feeling full and happy. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a cozy meal for yourself, this recipe is sure to please. In this article, we will explore the deliciousness of this dish, its health benefits, and why it’s the perfect addition to your meal rotation.
The Perfect Comfort Food
At its heart, Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is the ultimate comfort food. This dish brings together tender chicken breasts, crisp broccoli florets, and a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce that envelopes each bite in cheesy goodness. The balance of flavors is what makes this dish so special. The chicken provides lean protein, while the broccoli adds a burst of freshness and nutrition. The creamy sauce, made with sour cream, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard, not only enhances the flavor but also creates a luscious, indulgent experience with every bite.
Whether you’re craving something comforting after a long day or simply want a dish that’s filling and flavorful, this Broccoli Cheddar Chicken recipe delivers. It’s the kind of food you can enjoy with your family on a weekday evening or even serve as a special meal for guests. And because it’s so easy to prepare, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and again.
Health Benefits of Broccoli Cheddar Chicken
One of the most appealing aspects of this dish is its combination of both deliciousness and health benefits. The ingredients in Broccoli Cheddar Chicken not only taste great but also offer numerous nutritional advantages.
Broccoli: A Nutrient Powerhouse
Broccoli is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. It is rich in vitamin C, which supports the immune system, as well as vitamin K, which plays an essential role in bone health. Broccoli is also a great source of folate, fiber, and antioxidants, which help protect the body against inflammation and oxidative stress. Including broccoli in your meals can contribute to improved digestion, stronger bones, and a healthier immune system.
In addition, the fiber content in broccoli helps keep you full for longer, making it a great vegetable for weight management. The combination of fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins makes broccoli one of the healthiest vegetables to include in your diet.
Chicken: Lean Protein for Muscle and Energy
Chicken, especially boneless, skinless breasts, is one of the best sources of lean protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue, and it plays a critical role in keeping your metabolism running smoothly. Including chicken in your diet ensures that you’re getting the necessary nutrients to support muscle growth, energy production, and overall body function.
Additionally, chicken is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different dishes. In this recipe, the chicken not only provides protein but also serves as a canvas for the creamy, cheesy sauce and the broccoli, making it a complete meal.
Cheddar Cheese: A Source of Calcium and Flavor
Cheddar cheese, though often seen as a treat, offers more than just flavor. It’s an excellent source of calcium, which is vital for bone health. It also contains protein and healthy fats that can help you feel satisfied after a meal. While cheese can be calorie-dense, when used in moderation as in this dish, it adds the perfect creamy texture and tangy flavor that complements the chicken and broccoli beautifully.
In addition to calcium, cheddar cheese contains beneficial vitamins such as vitamin A, which supports eye health, and vitamin B12, which is important for nerve function and the production of red blood cells.
Why This Recipe is the Best
When it comes to choosing a dinner recipe, there are a few key factors to consider: taste, convenience, and nutrition. Broccoli Cheddar Chicken hits the mark in all of these areas, making it the ideal choice for busy weeknights or whenever you’re looking for a meal that’s both comforting and healthy.
Quick and Easy to Prepare
One of the standout qualities of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious, satisfying meal in under 45 minutes. The chicken breasts cook up quickly, and while they’re sizzling in the skillet, you can steam the broccoli and prepare the creamy cheese sauce. Once everything is prepped, it’s just a matter of assembling the dish in a baking dish and letting the oven work its magic.
This recipe is perfect for anyone who doesn’t have hours to spend in the kitchen but still wants a meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding the whole family, this dish can easily be adapted to suit your needs.
Customizable for Different Tastes
Another reason why this Broccoli Cheddar Chicken recipe is the best is its versatility. The dish can be modified to suit various dietary preferences or ingredient preferences. For example, if you’re looking to make it a bit lighter, you can swap the mayo for Greek yogurt or use a reduced-fat cheese. If you prefer a spicier version, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes will add a delightful kick to the dish.
You can also adjust the vegetable proportions based on what you have on hand. While broccoli is the star of the show, feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. The possibilities are endless, and you can truly make this dish your own.
A Family-Friendly Meal
This recipe is perfect for families because it’s something everyone can enjoy. Kids will love the cheesy sauce, while adults will appreciate the nutritional benefits of the broccoli and the lean protein from the chicken. It’s a balanced meal that checks all the boxes: protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
It’s also a great option for meal prep. You can easily double the recipe to have leftovers for the next day, or you can make a larger batch for a family gathering. No matter the occasion, this dish will surely be a crowd-pleaser.
Tips for Success
To make sure your Broccoli Cheddar Chicken turns out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips:
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Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Since the chicken breasts are thin, they cook quickly. Be sure to check for doneness early to avoid overcooking, which can lead to dry chicken. Using a meat thermometer is a great way to ensure the chicken reaches the perfect internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
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Steam the Broccoli to Perfection: Steaming the broccoli helps it retain its vibrant green color and its nutrients. You can also sauté the broccoli if you prefer a slightly different texture, but steaming keeps it tender and adds a nice contrast to the creamy cheese sauce.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh broccoli and high-quality cheese. Fresh ingredients always elevate the overall taste of the dish.
Conclusion
Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is the perfect balance of comfort, flavor, and nutrition. It brings together the best of both worlds: a cheesy, creamy sauce paired with lean protein and nutrient-packed vegetables. It’s easy to prepare, customizable for different tastes, and sure to be a hit with the whole family. Whether you’re in need of a quick weeknight dinner or looking for something that’s both delicious and nutritious, this dish ticks all the boxes. Give it a try, and you’ll find yourself making it again and again!