Description
A comforting and easy-to-make Cheddar Broccoli Chicken Bake featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in creamy condensed cheddar soup, surrounded by nutritious broccoli, and topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that combines protein, vegetables, and cheesy goodness in one dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts (cut in half lengthwise)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
Sauce and Vegetables
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cheddar soup
- 2 cups frozen broccoli
Topping
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F and position the oven rack in the top third to ensure even baking.
- Prepare Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thin pieces. Arrange them side-by-side in a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Season the chicken with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper as desired.
- Add Soup: Spoon the condensed cheddar soup evenly over the chicken breasts without adding water, ensuring all pieces are coated.
- Add Broccoli: Place the frozen broccoli around the chicken, distributing it evenly in the casserole dish.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole dish tightly with foil or an oven-safe lid. Bake for 25 minutes to cook the chicken and heat the broccoli through.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken, focusing on the pieces themselves. Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: When ready to serve, plate the chicken first. Stir the broccoli with the sauce released during cooking and season with additional salt and pepper as needed for taste.
Notes
- Frozen broccoli is convenient and provides great texture; fresh broccoli can be used but may require adjusting cooking time.
- The condensed cheddar soup acts as both sauce and seasoning, so additional liquid is unnecessary.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F for food safety.
- For a lower sodium option, consider using low-sodium condensed soup and seasoning sparingly.
