Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, thawed)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, depending on preference)
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk or any preferred alternative)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for color and freshness)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the dish bakes evenly once it is prepared.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure to coat both sides evenly for maximum flavor. Once seasoned, place the chicken breasts in a baking dish, leaving space between each breast so they cook thoroughly and absorb the sauce properly.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, milk, and sour cream. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The cream of chicken soup provides the base for a rich sauce, while the milk and sour cream help achieve a creamy consistency.
Step 4: Pour the Sauce Over the Chicken
Pour the creamy sauce mixture over the seasoned chicken breasts in the baking dish, ensuring that each breast is covered generously. This will keep the chicken moist during baking and infuse it with a delicious flavor.
Step 5: Add the Broccoli
Scatter the broccoli florets around and on top of the chicken breasts. If you’re using frozen broccoli, make sure it is thawed and well-drained to avoid adding excess moisture to the dish. Fresh broccoli works best, as it maintains its texture and vibrancy after baking.
Step 6: Top with Cheddar Cheese
Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken and broccoli. The cheese will melt and create a bubbly, golden topping that enhances the dish’s overall flavor.
Step 7: Bake the Dish
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know the dish is done when the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C), and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. You may need to bake for a few extra minutes if you want the cheese to be extra crispy.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and added freshness.