Cheddar Broccoli Chicken Bake (Print Version)

Tender chicken cubes combined with broccoli and melted cheddar for a cozy, comforting dinner.

# Components:

→ Proteins

01 - 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes

→ Vegetables

02 - 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
03 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Dairy

05 - 1 1/4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
06 - 3/4 cup sour cream
07 - 1/2 cup milk
08 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

→ Pantry

09 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
10 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
11 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
12 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
13 - 1/2 cup gluten-free or regular breadcrumbs

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
02 - Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened, about 3 minutes.
03 - Add chicken cubes to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until just opaque but not fully cooked, approximately 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
04 - In a large bowl, whisk sour cream, milk, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, salt, and pepper until smooth.
05 - Gently fold broccoli florets and partially cooked chicken mixture into the dairy and seasoning mixture until evenly combined.
06 - Spread the combined mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
07 - In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter. Evenly sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup cheddar cheese and breadcrumb mixture over the surface of the casserole.
08 - Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the dish is bubbly.
09 - Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Creamy cheddar sauce with a golden, bubbly top
  • Easy, one-dish main perfect for busy nights
02 -
  • Use certified gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep the dish gluten-free
  • Frozen broccoli can be substituted but must be thawed and drained before mixing
03 -
  • Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor
  • Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream if a lighter version is preferred
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