Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Bake
This Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Bake is a comforting, protein-rich, lower-carbohydrate dinner made with tender chicken, broccoli, creamy cheese, and savory seasonings. It’s easy to prepare and works well for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
- 1½ lb (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Directions
1. Prepare the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned and nearly cooked through.
3. Prepare the Broccoli
Steam the broccoli for approximately 3–4 minutes, until bright green and just tender.
Don’t overcook it because it will continue cooking in the oven.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning until mostly smooth.
Stir in half of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
5. Assemble the Bake
Place the cooked chicken and broccoli in the prepared baking dish.
Pour the creamy sauce over the top and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
Spread into an even layer.
6. Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan over the top.
7. Bake
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked, the sauce is hot and bubbling, and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Garnish and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Recipe Tips
- Cut the chicken into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
- Avoid over-steaming the broccoli; slightly crisp-tender broccoli holds up better during baking.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest texture.
- Add mushrooms, spinach, or cauliflower for extra vegetables.
- For more flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a little Cajun seasoning.
- If you’re managing diabetes, portion size and the total carbohydrate content of the meal still matter; individual dietary needs vary.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Prep & Cooking Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Meta Description
Make a creamy Chicken & Broccoli Bake with tender chicken, broccoli, cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, and herbs. A satisfying protein-rich, lower-carb dinner.