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Broccoli Cheddar Chicken – Cheesy, Comforting & Easy

If you’re craving cozy, restaurant-style comfort food at home, this Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is just the dish. It takes tender chicken breasts and blankets them in a velvety cheddar cheese sauce loaded with fresh broccoli. The result? A hearty and family-friendly dinner that pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or even pasta. This dish is reminiscent of broccoli cheddar soup but made heartier with juicy chicken — it’s the ultimate weeknight comfort meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

🍗 Meat:
  • 4 chicken breasts boneless and skinless
🥦 Vegetables:
  • 2 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen (chopped small)
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
🧄 Seasonings:
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
🧈 Dairy:
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 cup milk whole or 2%
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese shredded
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese grated
🫒 Oils:
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
🥄 Thickener:
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

Equipment

  • Large skillet or oven-safe pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Knife & cutting board
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Wooden spoon or whisk
  • Cheese grater

Method
 

Step 1 – Prepare the Chicken
  1. Season chicken with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (165°F/74°C). Remove and set aside.
Step 2 – Make the Broccoli Cheddar Sauce
  1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute to form a roux.
  4. Slowly whisk in milk and cream until smooth.
  5. Stir in broccoli florets and simmer 5–6 minutes until tender.
  6. Add cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and creamy.
Step 3 – Combine Chicken & Sauce
  1. Return chicken to skillet, spooning sauce over the top.
  2. Simmer 2–3 minutes so flavors meld.
Step 4 – Serve
  1. Garnish with extra cheddar or parsley.
  2. Serve hot with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate leftovers in airtight container up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on stovetop with splash of milk or cream.
Not freezer-friendly (cheese sauce may separate).
🥄 Variations
Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or a dash of cayenne.
Extra Veggies: Stir in spinach, carrots, or mushrooms.
Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle with breadcrumbs and broil until golden.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes — thighs add extra juiciness.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just thaw and pat dry first.
What cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar gives the richest flavor.
Can I bake this instead of stovetop?
Yes — assemble, then bake at 375°F for 20 minutes.
Can I make this ahead?
Cook sauce and chicken separately, combine before serving.
How do I keep the sauce smooth?
Whisk constantly while adding milk to avoid lumps.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely — it’s creamy, cheesy, and mild.
Can I make it lighter?
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
What pairs well with this?
Rice, roasted potatoes, or garlic bread.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger skillet or baking dish.
🏁 Conclusion
This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is comfort food perfection — juicy chicken breasts smothered in creamy broccoli cheddar sauce. With simple ingredients and a one-pan approach, it’s the kind of cozy dinner everyone at the table will love.