Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bliss has been my go-to comfort food for years, and I’m so excited to share this recipe with you! I still remember the first time I made a cheesy chicken broccoli bake for my family; the aroma of garlic and melting cheese filled the entire house, and everyone devoured it in minutes. This easy cheesy chicken broccoli recipe transforms simple ingredients into a truly decadent meal. It’s the kind of dish that makes weeknights feel special and always gets rave reviews. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bliss

This dish is a winner for so many reasons. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s surprisingly simple to make:

• Incredible Taste: It’s packed with savory chicken, tender broccoli, and a rich, gooey cheese sauce that makes it a truly creamy chicken broccoli casserole.
• Quick Prep: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can get this delicious meal into the oven fast.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses common pantry staples and affordable ingredients, making it a great option for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.
• Family Approved: This is a crowd-pleasing meal that even picky eaters will devour. It’s a fantastic creamy chicken broccoli casserole for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious Balance: Combines protein from chicken, vitamins from broccoli, and carbs from rice for a well-rounded meal.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with different cheeses or even adding other veggies.

Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bliss

Gathering the ingredients for this delightful chicken broccoli cheese bake recipe is straightforward. You’ll need:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced – rotisserie chicken works wonderfully here!
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets – for that vibrant green goodness
• 1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown) – the base of our casserole
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth – provides flavor and helps cook the rice
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – for that classic cheesy flavor
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened – this is key for our creamy sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – adds a punch of savory flavor
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – complements the garlic nicely
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – a subtle herbaceous note
• Salt and black pepper, to taste – essential for seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – for a little warmth
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds a salty, nutty finish
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – for a pop of color and freshness

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bliss

Get ready to create the most amazing cheesy chicken broccoli bake! It’s incredibly simple to follow these steps.

1. Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a light grease. This prevents any sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine your main stars: 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced works perfectly), 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, and 1 cup uncooked rice. This is where the magic starts to happen, and you’ll see how easy it is to make cheesy chicken broccoli.
3. Step 3: In a separate bowl, it’s time to whip up that luscious sauce. Whisk together 2 ½ cups chicken broth, 1/2 cup softened cream cheese, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, and a good pinch of salt and black pepper. If you like a little kick, now’s the time to add that optional 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes. Whisk until it’s smooth and creamy – no lumps allowed!
4. Step 4: Pour that glorious creamy sauce over the chicken, broccoli, and rice mixture in the large bowl. Gently stir everything together. You want to make sure every single piece of chicken, broccoli, and grain of rice is coated in that delicious sauce.
5. Step 5: Carefully transfer the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly so it cooks uniformly.
6. Step 6: Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. You’ll start to smell that wonderful aroma filling your kitchen – a sure sign that your cheesy chicken broccoli bake is coming together beautifully.
7. Step 7: After 30 minutes, carefully remove the dish from the oven. It’s time for the cheese! Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
8. Step 8: Return the dish to the oven for another 10-15 minutes. Bake until the cheese is completely melted, golden brown, and wonderfully bubbly. This is the ultimate step in how to make cheesy chicken broccoli!
9. Step 9: Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
10. Step 10: For a beautiful finish, garnish with some fresh chopped parsley. Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bliss!

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bliss

Here are a few tricks I’ve picked up to make this dish absolutely perfect every time:

• Don’t overcook the broccoli: Blanch it for just 1-2 minutes before adding it to the casserole to ensure it stays tender-crisp.
• Use good quality cheese: Shredding your own cheddar and Parmesan from blocks melts much better than pre-shredded varieties, which often have anti-caking agents.
• Adjust liquid as needed: If you prefer a looser consistency, you can add a splash more chicken broth. For a thicker dish, you can use slightly less.

What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bliss?

The secret to the absolute best cheesy chicken broccoli dish lies in the creamy sauce base. Using softened cream cheese and whisking it thoroughly with the chicken broth creates a velvety smooth texture that coats everything beautifully, ensuring each bite is pure bliss. For more tips on creating delicious sauces, check out this guide on homemade tomato sauce.

Can I make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bliss ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can assemble the entire casserole (without the final cheese topping) up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add the cheese topping and increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes to ensure it’s heated through.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bliss?

A common pitfall is using uncooked rice that doesn’t fully cook. Ensure your chicken broth is hot when you mix it with the cream cheese to help it dissolve smoothly. Also, avoid over-baking, which can dry out the chicken and broccoli. For more information on cooking grains, you might find this article on barley helpful.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bliss

This dish is pure comfort food and shines on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a few simple sides. For a truly comforting cheesy chicken broccoli experience, serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. You could also enjoy it with some crusty bread for dipping into that amazing cheesy sauce. It’s the perfect centerpiece for a cozy family dinner where everyone can dig in and enjoy.

Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bliss

This delicious dish offers a satisfying meal with a good balance of nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving:

• Calories: Approximately 450-550 kcal
• Fat: Approximately 20-30g
• Saturated Fat: Approximately 10-15g
• Protein: Approximately 30-40g
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40g
• Fiber: Approximately 3-5g
• Sugar: Approximately 3-5g
• Sodium: Approximately 600-800mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your cheesy chicken broccoli bake.

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bliss

This hearty cheesy chicken broccoli bake is fantastic for leftovers, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy families. Once it’s finished cooking, let your delicious cheesy chicken broccoli casserole cool completely on the counter for about 1-2 hours. This is crucial to prevent condensation and ensure food safety. For fridge storage, portion the casserole into airtight containers. It will stay fresh and tasty for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, you can freeze it! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is simple. For refrigerated portions, microwave them for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through. You can also reheat it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, covered with foil, until warm. For frozen portions, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat using the microwave or oven methods described above.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bliss

What makes this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bliss so good?

The combination of tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and a luxuriously creamy, cheesy sauce is what makes this dish irresistible. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s also surprisingly easy cheesy chicken broccoli to whip up, perfect for any night of the week. For more insights into creating comforting meals, explore these dinner recipes.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can! If using frozen broccoli, thaw it completely and drain off any excess water before adding it to the casserole. This is a great way to make this cheesy chicken broccoli bake easy and convenient when you’re short on time.

What are some good side dishes to serve with it?

This cheesy chicken broccoli bake is quite hearty on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple garden salad to add a fresh contrast. Crusty bread is also a fantastic option for soaking up any extra cheesy sauce. It’s a complete meal that’s perfect for a family dinner. You might also enjoy a side of spaghetti with mushroom sauce for a heartier meal.

How do I ensure the rice is cooked through?

Make sure the chicken broth is hot when you mix it into the ingredients. This helps the uncooked rice absorb the liquid and cook properly during the baking time. If you’re using brown rice, it might require a little extra liquid or a slightly longer bake time. Learning about different grains, like barley, can also be beneficial.

Variations of Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bliss You Can Try

While this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bliss is fantastic as is, there are so many ways to switch it up! For those looking for a lighter option, you can try a cheesy chicken broccoli bake no cream by using evaporated milk or a lighter béchamel sauce instead of cream cheese. Another fun variation is to swap the rice for pasta; simply cook your favorite pasta al dente and combine it with the other ingredients for a delicious cheesy chicken broccoli pasta dish. If you’re short on time, consider a one-pan cheesy chicken broccoli skillet where you cook everything together on the stovetop before finishing under the broiler for a crispy topping. You can also experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor profile in your chicken broccoli cheese bake recipe.

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bliss: 1 Decadent Recipe

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• Author: Jessica
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A comforting and creamy casserole featuring tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich blend of cheeses, perfect for family dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, fresh broccoli florets, and uncooked rice.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes until smooth.
4. Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken, broccoli, and rice mixture. Stir gently to ensure all ingredients are well coated.
5. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
8. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
10. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

Notes

Serve in individual bowls for a cozy feel or family-style straight from the baking dish.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: Approximately 450-550 kcal (will vary based on specific ingredients)
• Sugar: Approximately 3-5g
• Sodium: Approximately 600-800mg
• Fat: Approximately 20-30g
• Saturated Fat: Approximately 10-15g
• Unsaturated Fat: Approximately 10-15g
• Trans Fat: Less than 1g
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40g
• Fiber: Approximately 3-5g
• Protein: Approximately 30-40g
• Cholesterol: Approximately 80-100mg