Cheddar Broccoli Chicken Bake (Print Version)

Tender chicken and broccoli combined with sharp cheddar and creamy flavors, baked until golden and bubbly.

# Components:

→ Proteins

01 - 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes

→ Vegetables

02 - 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
03 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Dairy

05 - 1 1/4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
06 - 3/4 cup sour cream
07 - 1/2 cup milk
08 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

→ Pantry

09 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
10 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
11 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
12 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
13 - 1/2 cup gluten-free or regular breadcrumbs

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
02 - In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté onion and garlic in 1 tablespoon butter until softened, about 3 minutes.
03 - Add chicken cubes to the skillet and cook, stirring, until just opaque but not fully cooked, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
04 - In a large bowl, whisk together sour cream, milk, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
05 - Fold broccoli florets and the partially cooked chicken mixture into the cheese sauce until evenly combined.
06 - Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
07 - In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup cheddar cheese and breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.
08 - Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
09 - Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Comforting and family-friendly
  • Perfect for weeknights and easy prep
02 -
  • To make gluten-free, use certified gluten-free bread crumbs and check product labels for allergens.
  • Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream if you prefer a lighter option.
03 -
  • Frozen broccoli works in a pinch—just thaw and drain well before adding.
  • Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the topping for extra flavor.
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