Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Bake
This Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Bake is a delightful family favorite that combines tender chicken breasts, creamy broccoli cheese soup, and fluffy rice into one delicious dish. Perfect for those busy weeknights when time is limited, this one-pan meal radiates comfort and flavor. The addition of fresh parsley at the end gives it a delightful pop of color and freshness. Serve it up for a hearty dinner that will please the whole family!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
boneless skinless chicken breasts
4 (Cut into bite-sized cubes)
broccoli cheese soup
1 (10 1/2 ounce) can (Ready to use)
rice
3/4 lb (Cook according to package directions)
butter
1 tablespoon (Melted)
cooking spray
as needed (For greasing the skillet)
milk
1/2 cup (Ready to use)
fresh parsley
to taste (Chopped for garnish)
Instructions
1
Begin by rinsing and cooking the rice according to the package directions. Set aside once cooked.
2
In a large 10-inch skillet, spray with cooking spray and melt the butter over medium heat.
3
Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes and add them to the heated skillet. Sauté the chicken until it's white and cooked through on all sides, approximately 7-8 minutes.
4
Drain any excess fat from the cooked chicken on paper towels to remove any unwanted grease.
5
Return the skillet to low heat, spraying with additional cooking spray if needed. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet.
6
Stir in the broccoli cheese soup and milk, mixing well to combine. Cover the skillet and let simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mixture is heated through.
7
Once simmered, serve the creamy chicken mixture over the cooked rice. For an added touch, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Bake?
It is a one-pan comfort meal featuring chicken breasts, broccoli cheese soup, and rice, designed for easy weeknight dinners.
How long does it take to cook the chicken?
The chicken should be sautéed for approximately 7-8 minutes until it is white and cooked through on all sides.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use any rice you prefer, just ensure it is cooked according to its specific package directions before serving.
What type of soup is required?
The recipe calls for one 10.5-ounce can of broccoli cheese soup.
Is this a one-pan meal?
Yes, the chicken and sauce are prepared in a single 10-inch skillet, though the rice is cooked separately.
How many chicken breasts do I need?
The recipe requires 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Certainly! While it includes broccoli soup, you can add fresh steamed broccoli or carrots for extra nutrition.
What can I use instead of butter?
You can substitute butter with olive oil or margarine if preferred.
Do I need to drain the chicken?
Yes, draining excess fat on paper towels after sautéing helps remove unwanted grease from the final dish.
What is the purpose of the milk in this recipe?
The milk is stirred into the soup to create a smoother, creamier sauce for the chicken.
How long should the mixture simmer?
Once the soup and milk are added, the mixture should simmer for about 10 minutes.
What garnish is recommended?
Freshly chopped parsley is recommended for a pop of color and freshness.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used as a flavorful alternative.
How do I prepare the chicken?
The chicken should be cut into bite-sized cubes before sautéing.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can stir in frozen broccoli florets during the simmering stage for more texture.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the creamy cheese sauce and tender chicken make it a popular choice for families with children.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze this meal?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken and soup mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
How should I reheat the leftovers?
Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
What size skillet should I use?
A large 10-inch skillet is recommended for this recipe.
Can I add extra cheese?
Yes, topping the dish with shredded cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of simmering adds extra flavor.
Is the rice cooked in the skillet?
No, the rice is cooked separately and the chicken mixture is served over it.
What can I use if I don't have parsley?
Dried parsley or chopped green onions can be used as a substitute garnish.
How much rice is needed?
The recipe calls for 3/4 lb of rice.
Can I use instant rice?
Yes, instant rice works well for an even faster meal preparation.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
You can stir in a little extra milk until you reach your desired consistency.
Is there a low-carb version of this?
You can serve the chicken and broccoli mixture over cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
Does this recipe require many ingredients?
No, it only requires 7 simple ingredients, making it very budget-friendly.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can combine the ingredients (except rice) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, it is a mild and savory dish, but you can add red pepper flakes if you prefer heat.