Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bake
A lighter, modern take on the classic Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bake, featuring fresh ingredients and a homemade sauce that balances indulgence and nutrition.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Chicken Breast, cooked and cubed or shredded
- 4 cups Fresh Broccoli Florets, bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese, freshly grated
- 1.5 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth
- 1 cup Whole Milk
- 3 tbsp All-Purpose Flour
- 3 tbsp Unsalted Butter
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Blanch the broccoli in boiling salted water for 2 minutes, then shock in ice water.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Slowly whisk in chicken broth and milk, simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar until melted.
- In a bowl, combine cooked chicken and blanched broccoli, pour cheese sauce over and mix.
- Transfer to the baking dish, top with remaining cheese and panko breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.
- Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Grate your own cheese for a smoother sauce. Use fresh broccoli for better texture.