Looking for a comforting and delicious dinner idea that is easy to make? Look no further than this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Bake! Packed with flavor and perfect for any night of the week.
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 can cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour mixture into a greased baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the chicken mixture.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
**Nutrition Information:**
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 20g
– Fat: 20g
– Fiber: 4g
**Popular questions:**
1. **Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?**
– Yes, fresh broccoli can be used. Make sure to cook the broccoli slightly before incorporating it into the recipe.
2. **Can I use another type of cheese?**
– Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as mozzarella or Swiss, for a different flavor.
3. **Can I make this recipe ahead of time?**
– Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
4. **Can I add extra vegetables to the bake?**
– Absolutely, you can add mushrooms, carrots, or peas for extra veggie goodness.
5. **Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?**
– Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut to save time in the kitchen.
6. **Can I make this recipe gluten-free?**
– Yes, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip the breadcrumbs altogether.
7. **Can I freeze leftovers?**
– Yes, leftovers can be frozen for a future meal. Just thaw and reheat when ready to eat.
8. **Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup with something else?**
– You can use cream of mushroom soup or a homemade white sauce as a substitute.
9. **Can I add some herbs or spices for extra flavor?**
– Absolutely, adding herbs like thyme, parsley, or paprika can add a nice touch to the dish.
10. **Can I adjust the amount of cheese used?**
– Feel free to adjust the amount of cheese to your liking, or even use a mix of different cheeses for added flavor.
**Helpful Tips:**
1. Add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy crust.
2. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.
3. Use a mixture of white and dark chicken meat for a more robust flavor.
4. Experiment with different vegetables to change up the dish each time you make it.
5. For a healthier version, use low-fat cheese and milk.
6. Add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
7. Allow the bake to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
8. Try adding cooked pasta to the mix for a chicken, broccoli, and pasta bake.
9. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the breadcrumbs before baking for extra crispiness.
10. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.
**Expert Secrets:**
1. To prevent the dish from becoming too watery, make sure to drain any excess liquid from the cooked chicken and broccoli before mixing.
2. For a creamier texture, add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture.
3. To bump up the protein content, add a can of drained and rinsed white beans or chickpeas.
4. For a savory twist, mix in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or Worcestershire sauce to the cream of chicken soup.
5. Make individual portions by dividing the mixture into ramekins before baking.
6. Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
7. To make the dish more filling, stir in cooked rice or quinoa before baking.
8. To achieve a crispy top, broil the bake for a few minutes at the end of baking.
9. To make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
10. For a crunchy topping, mix in crushed potato chips or French-fried onions with the breadcrumbs before sprinkling over the bake.
This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Bake is sure to become a family favorite with its simple preparation and delicious taste. Enjoy this comforting dish tonight!
