Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: This dish is simple to assemble with minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful: The creamy cheese sauce combined with the savory chicken and broccoli makes this dish irresistible.
Low-Carb: A great option for those following a low-carb or keto lifestyle.
One-Dish Meal: Less cleanup required since everything bakes together in one pan.
Customizable: Feel free to add extra vegetables or swap out the type of cheese to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
4 cups broccoli florets, steamed
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)

Directions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, heavy cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well-combined.
Assemble the Dish: Layer the cooked chicken and steamed broccoli in the prepared baking dish. Pour the cream sauce over the top and mix everything together until evenly distributed.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top of the casserole.
Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are slightly golden.
Serve: Let the bake cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Different Cheese: Swap out the cheddar cheese for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even Swiss for a different flavor profile.
Add More Veggies: Add in some cauliflower, spinach, or bell peppers to bulk up the dish and add more nutrients.
Low-Carb Version: Keep it keto-friendly by using full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream, and avoid any breadcrumbs or flour in the dish.
Spicy Kick: Add a bit of red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or jalapeños to give the dish some heat.
Make it Crispy: Sprinkle crushed pork rinds or low-carb breadcrumbs on top of the cheese before baking for an extra crunchy topping.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Make sure it’s fully cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Reheating:
- Microwave: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the dish.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver, and it adds extra flavor.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream cheese, heavy cream, and cheddar with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and dairy-free cheese.

Can I add a crunchy topping to the bake?

Yes, you can sprinkle some crushed crackers, breadcrumbs, or even a mixture of cheese and almond flour on top before baking for a crunchy finish.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes, this Chicken Broccoli Bake is keto-friendly as it is low in carbs and high in fat, making it perfect for a low-carb or ketogenic diet.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I add other vegetables to this bake?

Absolutely! You can add cauliflower, mushrooms, or zucchini for added flavor and texture.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or even diced jalapeños to the cream sauce to give the dish a spicy kick.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with ground turkey, beef, or even shredded pork.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days, and they can also be frozen for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

This Chicken Broccoli Bake is a simple, comforting, and filling dish that’s perfect for a low-carb or keto lifestyle. With its creamy texture, delicious cheese topping, and easy-to-make nature, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that the whole family will enjoy. Whether you make it as a quick meal or prep it ahead of time for later, this dish is sure to become a favorite.