Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
15 mins
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Total Time
25 mins
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Servings
4
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Calories
359 kcal
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Course
Side Dish, Main Course, Dinner
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Cuisine
American
Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli
Description
Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli begins with thinly pounded chicken breasts seasoned with garlic powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper, then seared in olive oil until golden. After browning, chicken broth and fresh broccoli florets are added, and the skillet is covered to lightly steam the broccoli and finish cooking the chicken through. Removing the chicken and broccoli, cream cheese is melted into the pan juices along with shredded sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, forming a smooth, creamy sauce that lightly coats the ingredients when served.
The final dish combines juicy, tender chicken with broccoli that retains a slight crispness, balanced by a rich cheese sauce with sharp and tangy notes. The method keeps all flavors in the pan, giving the sauce depth without added thickening agents.
This entrée can be enjoyed on its own or served over pasta or rice to catch the cheese sauce. Its combination of protein, vegetables, and dairy makes it a practical choice for a filling dinner.
Pump the chicken to uniform thickness to ensure even cooking and use a thermometer to avoid overcooking. Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and the cheese sauce proportions can be increased if a saucier dish is preferred.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast pounded ½" thick, boneless skinless
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon basil dried
- ¼ teaspoon salt or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¾ cup chicken broth more as needed
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 4 ounces cream cheese cubed
- ½ cup cheddar cheese shredded sharp
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan Cheese shredded
Instructions
- Place the chicken on a cutting board and cover with plastic wrap. Pound to ½-inch thickness with a meat tenderizer or rolling pin. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and basil.
- In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the pan and cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until browned. Flip over and brown for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add the broth to the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Add broccoli to the pan and cover. Cook covered for about 3-4 minutes or until tender crisp and chicken is cooked through (165°F).
- Remove the broccoli and chicken, place on a serving plate, and lightly cover to keep warm.
- Add the cream cheese to the pan and whisk until melted and creamy, adding more broth if needed. Whisk in the cheddar & parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Spoon the cheese sauce over the chicken and broccoli and serve immediately.
Notes
- Prepare broccoli and shred the cheeses while chicken cooks to save time.
- Use plastic wrap when pounding chicken to avoid mess.
- Cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and juiciness.
- Incorporate pan juices into the cheese sauce for added flavor.
- Sharp cheeses enhance the sauce's taste; increase quantities to serve over pasta if desired.
- Store leftovers covered in the fridge and consume within 3 days.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 359 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 359 | 18% |
| Carbohydrates | 8g | 3% |
| Protein | 33g | 66% |
| Fat | 22g | 34% |
| Saturated Fat | 10g | 50% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 7g | 35% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 120mg | 40% |
| Sodium | 687mg | 29% |
| Potassium | 805mg | 17% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 3g | 6% |
| Vitamin A | 1145IU | 23% |
| Vitamin C | 86mg | 96% |
| Calcium | 213mg | 21% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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