Easy Broccoli Chicken Bake with Cream Cheese and Mozzarella

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’ve come to the right place! This Easy Broccoli Chicken Bake with Cream Cheese and Mozzarella is one of those recipes that you’ll want to make again and again. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s great for family gatherings or when friends drop by unexpectedly. Everyone loves a good cheesy bake, and this one is sure to impress!

What makes this recipe truly special is how simple it is to whip up while still delivering big flavors. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy sauce topped with gooey mozzarella creates a delightful symphony of textures that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just about 50 minutes, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner.
• Family-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness and colorful veggies, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and greens, this casserole is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix things up with different vegetables or seasonings—it’s all about your personal taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delightful casserole, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Let’s gather everything we need for our Easy Broccoli Chicken Bake with Cream Cheese and Mozzarella!

• 500g Chicken breast, diced
• 300g Broccoli, cut into small florets
• 200g Cream cheese (e.g., for cooking)
• 150g Mozzarella, grated
• 1 tsp Garlic powder
• 1 tsp Onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp Olive oil or butter
• ½ cup Chicken broth (preferably additive-free)
• 1 tsp Mustard (optional, for additional flavor)
• 1 tsp Dried thyme or Italian herbs

Variations

One of the best things about this Easy Broccoli Chicken Bake is its flexibility! You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the Protein: If you’re not feeling chicken today, try using turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
• Add More Veggies: Want to sneak in some extra nutrients? Toss in bell peppers, spinach, or even carrots for added color and flavor.
• Experiment with Cheeses: If mozzarella isn’t your favorite, feel free to use cheddar or gouda for a different twist!
• Spice It Up: For those who love a kick, add some red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce into the creamy mixture.

How to Make Easy Broccoli Chicken Bake with Cream Cheese and Mozzarella

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) convection. This step ensures that your casserole bakes evenly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breast dry before dicing into bite-sized cubes. Season generously with salt and pepper; this will help enhance the flavor as it cooks.

Step 3: Blanch the Broccoli

Wash your broccoli florets thoroughly and blanch them in salted boiling water for just 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green. This quick cooking helps retain their crunchiness and vibrant color.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the diced chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. This step adds depth of flavor through caramelization.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet (or a clean pot), combine cream cheese with chicken broth over low heat. Stir until smooth—a lump-free sauce makes all the difference! Add garlic powder, onion powder, mustard (if using), dried thyme or Italian herbs, seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, gently fold together the seared chicken and blanched broccoli. Pour that creamy sauce over everything and mix until each piece is well coated—this ensures every bite is deliciously creamy!

Step 7: Transfer to Baking Dish

Transfer your mixture into a lightly greased baking dish (approx. 20×30 cm / 9×13 inches). Spread it out evenly before generously sprinkling grated mozzarella cheese on top.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. The smell while it cooks will have everyone gathered around!

Step 9: Let It Rest

Once out of the oven, let your casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows everything to set perfectly so you can serve beautiful portions full of creamy goodness!

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Broccoli Chicken Bake with Cream Cheese and Mozzarella

This casserole is a breeze to make, but a few tips can help you achieve that perfect creamy texture and flavor every time!

• Choose fresh ingredients: Using fresh broccoli and chicken ensures optimal flavor and texture in your dish. Fresh ingredients not only enhance the taste but also provide vibrant colors that make the casserole visually appealing.

• Don’t overcook the broccoli: Blanching the broccoli only until it’s bright green and slightly tender-crisp preserves its nutrients and crunch. This way, it remains vibrant in the dish rather than turning mushy during baking.

• Customize your seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices according to your taste. Adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil can bring a burst of freshness, while spices like paprika or cayenne pepper can add some heat!

• Allow resting time after baking: Letting the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes after it comes out of the oven allows the sauce to thicken slightly, making serving easier and ensuring each bite is deliciously creamy.

• Double the recipe for meal prep: This casserole freezes beautifully! Consider making a double batch; it can be stored in an airtight container for up to three months. Simply bake straight from frozen for a quick weeknight meal.

How to Serve Easy Broccoli Chicken Bake with Cream Cheese and Mozzarella

Serving this delightful casserole is just as important as making it! Presenting it well can elevate your dining experience, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a pop of color and freshness, making the dish even more inviting.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes provides not only flavor but also visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this creamy casserole, providing a delightful contrast in texture while soaking up any extra sauce.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the bake.
• Steamed rice or quinoa: Serving this casserole over steamed rice or fluffy quinoa makes for a heartier meal while absorbing all those delicious flavors.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers complement this dish beautifully by adding additional nutrients and colors to your plate.

Enjoy your cooking adventure with this Easy Broccoli Chicken Bake with Cream Cheese and Mozzarella! It’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Broccoli Chicken Bake with Cream Cheese and Mozzarella is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the casserole cool down completely.
• Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
• Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil.
• Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes to allow the cheese to crisp up.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

Can I use other vegetables in this Easy Broccoli Chicken Bake with Cream Cheese and Mozzarella?

Absolutely! You can substitute broccoli with other vegetables like cauliflower, bell peppers, or spinach. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

How can I make this Easy Broccoli Chicken Bake with Cream Cheese and Mozzarella healthier?

To make it healthier, consider using low-fat cream cheese and mozzarella. You can also add more vegetables or use whole grain pasta as a base for extra fiber.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! This casserole is great for meal prep. You can assemble it a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

What should I serve with this casserole?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or crusty whole grain bread. The creaminess of the bake complements light sides perfectly!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making this Easy Broccoli Chicken Bake with Cream Cheese and Mozzarella as I do! It’s a comforting dish that brings together flavors and textures everyone will love. Whether it’s for dinner on a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!

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