If you’re craving a rich, comforting, and family-friendly dinner that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make, this Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Bake is a total winner. Juicy, pan-seared chicken is paired with tender broccoli florets and wrapped in a silky, cheesy cream sauce, then baked until golden and bubbling. It’s the kind of dish that makes the kitchen smell incredible and gets everyone hovering around the oven.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you want a cozy, home-cooked meal without spending hours cooking. It’s also endlessly customizable—make it low-carb, keto-friendly, or serve it over rice or pasta for a heartier option. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or guests, this bake hits that sweet spot between wholesome and indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Bake
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One-pan comfort food with minimal cleanup
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Packed with protein and vegetables
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Easy to adapt for low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diets
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Great for meal prep and leftovers
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Made with simple, affordable ingredients
This dish is especially popular for people searching for healthy chicken dinner recipes, easy casserole meals, and high-protein family dinners—and for good reason.
Ingredients
For the chicken & vegetables
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1½ lbs (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
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4 cups fresh broccoli florets
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1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon paprika
For the creamy sauce
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2 tablespoons butter
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1½ cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
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½ cup chicken broth
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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Optional: ¼ teaspoon chili flakes for heat
Optional add-ins
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Mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach
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Cheddar or Gruyère cheese for extra richness
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This step builds flavor right from the start.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly golden on the outside. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage—it will finish in the oven. Remove and set aside.
3. Blanch the Broccoli (Optional but Recommended)
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the broccoli for 2 minutes, then drain and rinse with cold water. This keeps the broccoli vibrant green and perfectly tender after baking.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and cream, stirring gently. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Lower the heat and stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Mix until the cheese melts into a smooth, velvety sauce.
5. Assemble the Bake
Add the chicken and broccoli into the sauce, stirring to coat evenly. Transfer everything to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle extra cheese on top if you love a cheesy crust.
6. Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden on top. For extra color, broil for the last 2–3 minutes.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve as-is for a low-carb or keto dinner
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Spoon over steamed rice, quinoa, or buttered pasta
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Pair with a crisp green salad or garlic bread
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Great alongside roasted potatoes for a comfort-food feast
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
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Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months (best without extra broccoli crunch loss)
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Reheating: Warm gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of cream
This makes it ideal for weekly meal prep, high-protein lunches, and make-ahead dinners.
Nutrition Highlights
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High in protein from chicken and cheese
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Rich in vitamins and fiber from broccoli
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Naturally gluten-free
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Easy to adapt for keto and low-carb lifestyles
Related Questions (SEO-Friendly & High CPM)
Can I make creamy chicken and broccoli bake ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Is this creamy chicken broccoli bake keto-friendly?
Absolutely. Use heavy cream and full-fat cheese, and skip any starchy sides.
What’s the best cheese for chicken broccoli casserole?
Mozzarella for melt, Parmesan for flavor, and cheddar or Gruyère for richness.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes—thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the bake.
How do I make this recipe healthier?
Use half-and-half instead of cream, reduce cheese slightly, and add extra vegetables.
What goes well with creamy chicken and broccoli?
Rice, pasta, cauliflower rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad all pair beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Bake is everything you want in a comfort meal—easy, satisfying, and packed with flavor. It’s a reliable recipe you’ll come back to again and again, whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or searching for a cozy dinner that feels special without being complicated.
