Craving a comforting, cheesy, and healthy meal that won't keep you in the kitchen all night? Look no further! This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and the entire family will love it. Get ready for a delicious and satisfying dinner that's as quick as it is healthy!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional, for added flavor)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken and Veggies
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Broccoli and Liquids
Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 3: Create the Cheese Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Gradually add a small amount of the simmering liquid to the flour mixture, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Pour the flour mixture back into the skillet and whisk until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it's melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the Broccoli Cheddar Chicken hot, as is, or over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. This easy recipe is a complete meal in itself, offering a great balance of protein and vegetables.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the chicken, ensure you don't overcrowd the pan. Work in batches if necessary to ensure the chicken browns properly and doesn't steam.
- Use fresh broccoli: Fresh broccoli will provide the best flavor and texture. If using frozen broccoli, ensure it's completely thawed and drained before adding it to the skillet.
- Adjust the spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and paprika to your liking. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
- Make it creamy: For an extra creamy sauce, stir in a tablespoon of sour cream or heavy cream at the end.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, peas, or mushrooms.
- Use different cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of your favorites.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños for a spicier dish.
- Make it a one-pan meal: Roast the chicken and broccoli together on a baking sheet before making the cheese sauce for a hands-off approach.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy food recipes, perfect for easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated! Enjoy this satisfying and flavorful meal any night of the week. It's certainly among the best recipes for a comforting and healthy dinner.