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- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded - 4 cups broccoli florets, steamed - 1 cup cooked quinoa (or rice) - 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided - ½ cup cream cheese, softened - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 cup chicken broth - ½ teaspoon paprika - Salt and pepper to taste - ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional for added crunch) The main ingredients for this bake create a great balance of flavors and textures. The chicken gives protein and heartiness. Broccoli adds nutrients and a nice crunch. Quinoa or rice makes the dish filling. Layering in cheese brings a creamy taste that everyone loves. I prefer using sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. Cream cheese adds a rich, smooth texture. Garlic powder enhances the taste and makes it pop. The chicken broth keeps everything moist while adding more flavor. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to fit your taste. Want it spicy? Add some cayenne pepper. Prefer it mild? Skip the paprika. The breadcrumbs can add a nice crunch but are not needed if you want a softer bake. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions to make this delicious meal your family will love! Preparation and Cooking Setup - Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). This helps the bake cook evenly. - Mix Base Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded chicken, 4 cups of steamed broccoli, 1 cup of cooked quinoa, and ¾ cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well to ensure all ingredients blend together. Sauce and Assembly - Prepare the Sauce: In another bowl, blend ½ cup of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of chicken broth, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of paprika, and salt and pepper. Aim for a smooth texture to coat the bake nicely. - Combine Mixtures: Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and broccoli mix. Stir with a spatula until everything is coated in sauce. Baking Process - Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish lightly. Spread the mixture evenly in the dish. - Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining ¾ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. For crunch, add ¼ cup of breadcrumbs if desired. - Bake: Place the dish in the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden. This recipe is simple yet packed with flavor. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions and tips! - Use Fresh or Frozen Broccoli: Choose bright green florets. Fresh broccoli has a nice crunch. Frozen broccoli works well too. Just steam it until tender to keep the flavor. Either option gives you great results. - Cheese Options: While sharp cheddar cheese is my go-to, you can try other cheeses. Consider mozzarella for a stretchy texture. Gruyère adds a nutty flavor, and pepper jack gives a nice kick. Mixing cheeses can create a unique taste. - How to Avoid a Dry Bake: To keep your bake moist, use enough cream cheese and broth. Don't overbake it. Watching the time is key. If you notice the top browning too fast, cover it with foil. - Serving Suggestions: Pair your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bake with a light salad or garlic bread. Roasted veggies also make a great side. If you want a crunch, a simple coleslaw works well too. For a touch of freshness, add lemon wedges on the side. Dive into the full recipe to explore more about making this meal a hit! {{image_4}} You can easily change up the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bake. Try different proteins or veggies to suit your taste. - Protein Alternatives: If you want a twist, use turkey or ham instead of chicken. You can also try plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option. - Vegetable Additions: Add fun vegetables to the bake. Carrots add sweetness, while bell peppers bring a nice crunch. Spinach offers a fresh, green boost. Mix and match to find your favorite combo. Making this dish fit your diet is simple. Here are some easy changes you can make. - Gluten-Free Options: For a gluten-free version, swap out the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones. Ensure all other ingredients, like chicken broth, are gluten-free too. - Low-Carb Variations: If you're watching carbs, use cauliflower rice instead of quinoa or rice. This keeps the dish tasty but lower in carbs. You can also skip the breadcrumbs to keep it even lighter. To keep your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bake fresh, follow these tips: - Refrigeration Guidelines: Let the dish cool for about 30 minutes after baking. Store it in an airtight container in your fridge. It will stay good for up to four days. Always cover it well to prevent drying out. - Freezing Instructions: If you want to freeze it, cut the bake into portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot. The shelf life of your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bake depends on how you store it: - In the fridge: It lasts about four days. - In the freezer: It keeps well for up to three months. Make sure to check for any signs of spoilage before eating leftovers. Enjoy your meal! Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Prepare it completely and cover it well. Store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you are ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. What can I substitute for cream cheese? If you need a substitute for cream cheese, try using Greek yogurt or sour cream. These options add creaminess and tang. You can also use a dairy-free cream cheese if you want a vegan option. How do I know when it's done baking? You will know it’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly. Look for a light golden color on top. You can also check the center with a knife; it should be hot all the way through. Can I use raw chicken in this recipe? Using raw chicken is not recommended for this bake. Cooked chicken helps keep the dish moist and adds flavor. Raw chicken would need longer to cook and could lead to uneven baking. Is it possible to make this recipe in a slow cooker? Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker. Cook on low for about 4 hours. Make sure to stir occasionally for even cooking. Can I double the recipe for a larger gathering? Absolutely! You can double the recipe for more servings. Just use a larger baking dish and adjust the cooking time as needed. Make sure the center is fully cooked before serving. In this article, we explored the delicious Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bake. We covered essential ingredients, like chicken, cheese, and broccoli, and provided step-by-step instructions for preparation and cooking. I shared tips to perfect the dish, plus ways to adapt it for different diets. Remember, fresh ingredients and proper storage can make a big difference. This recipe is not just tasty; it’s also flexible. Enjoy trying your own variations, and don’t hesitate to make it your own. Cooking can be fun, and this bake is a great place to start!

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bake

Indulge in the creamy goodness of Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bake, a comforting dish that the whole family will love! This easy recipe combines tender chicken, healthy broccoli, and savory quinoa, all baked to perfection with melted cheddar cheese on top. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, discover the simple steps to create this delicious meal. Click through to explore the full recipe and enjoy every cheesy bite!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

4 cups broccoli florets, steamed

1 cup cooked quinoa (or rice)

1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

½ cup cream cheese, softened

1 cup chicken broth

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional for added crunch)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.

    Mix Base Ingredients: In a spacious mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, cooked quinoa, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring even distribution.

      Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. This sauce will add flavor and moisture to your bake.

        Combine Mixtures: Carefully pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and broccoli mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix everything together until all components are well incorporated and coated with the sauce.

          Transfer to Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little oil. Pour the combined chicken and broccoli mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure uniform cooking.

            Top with Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese across the top of the mixture. If you’re craving a bit of crunch, sprinkle the optional breadcrumbs over the cheese layer.

              Bake: Carefully place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

                Serve: Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to set. Serve warm, and enjoy!

                  Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 45 min | Servings: 6

                    - Presentation Tips: For a delightful presentation, consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or chives before serving. Serve alongside a light salad for a balanced meal.