Creamy Cheddar Broccoli Chicken Bake: Comfort Food at Its Best

Nothing says comfort food quite like a warm, cheesy casserole fresh from the oven, and the Creamy Cheddar Broccoli Chicken Bake is a perfect example. Tender pieces of chicken are smothered in a rich, creamy cheddar sauce, paired with crisp-tender broccoli, and baked to golden perfection. Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures — the savory chicken, the slight crunch of broccoli, and the indulgent cheddar creaminess that pulls everything together.

This dish is ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family dinners because it’s easy to assemble, packed with protein and vegetables, and satisfies even picky eaters. Beyond its taste, the recipe also offers flexibility: you can swap vegetables, experiment with cheeses, or make it gluten-free without compromising the decadent flavors. With this creamy, cheesy bake, meal prep and dinner planning become effortless and delicious.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s a table of ingredients for the Creamy Cheddar Broccoli Chicken Bake, along with estimated calorie counts per serving (recipe serves 4–6).

Ingredient	Quantity	Calories
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts	4 (about 1.5 lbs)	660
Fresh broccoli florets	2 cups	60
Cheddar cheese, shredded	2 cups	450
Cream cheese	4 oz	400
Sour cream	½ cup	240
Garlic, minced	2 cloves	10
Onion, finely chopped	1 small	45
Chicken broth	½ cup	10
Olive oil	1 tablespoon	120
Salt and black pepper	To taste	0
Paprika	1 teaspoon	6
Italian seasoning	1 teaspoon	6
Crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (optional topping)	½ cup	200

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2: Cook Chicken

Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook until lightly browned but not fully cooked through (about 4–5 minutes). Remove from skillet and set aside.

3: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant and softened. Reduce heat and stir in cream cheese until melted. Add sour cream, chicken broth, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

4: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix cooked chicken, broccoli florets, and the creamy cheddar sauce. Ensure everything is coated evenly.

5: Bake

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese on top. For a crunchy topping, add crushed crackers or breadcrumbs. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

6: Serve

Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve hot for a comforting, cheesy dinner.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

• Vegetable Variations: Swap broccoli with cauliflower, green beans, or a mix of colorful vegetables.
• Cheese Options: Try Gouda, Monterey Jack, or a sharp cheddar for extra flavor.
• Make It Lighter: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or low-fat cheese to reduce calories.
• Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne, or smoked paprika for a hint of heat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit the topping entirely.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~420 kcal
Protein	38 g
Carbohydrates	14 g
Fat	26 g
Saturated Fat	12 g
Fiber	3 g
Sodium	580 mg
Sugar	3 g

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Cheddar Broccoli Chicken Bake pairs beautifully with:

• Steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal
• Garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the sauce
• A fresh green salad to balance the richness
• Roasted or sautéed vegetables for added texture

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the bake a few hours ahead or even the night before. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.

2. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well — just thaw and drain excess water before mixing into the bake to prevent it from becoming watery.

3. What type of cheese is best for this recipe?

Cheddar cheese is classic, but you can mix in Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even mozzarella for extra creaminess and flavor.

4. Can I make this dish low-carb or keto-friendly?

Yes! Skip the optional breadcrumbs or crackers topping and use full-fat cheeses and sour cream. Serve with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a lower-carb option.

5. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Definitely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor. Adjust cooking time slightly if using larger pieces.

Conclusion

The Creamy Cheddar Broccoli Chicken Bake is a versatile, satisfying, and easy-to-make dish that brings comfort to the dinner table. With tender chicken, nutrient-rich broccoli, and a rich cheddar cream sauce, it’s a recipe that’s as nourishing as it is indulgent. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or casual entertaining, this bake delivers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that everyone will love. Once you try this creamy, cheesy chicken bake, it’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.