If you're looking for a hearty dish that's both easy to make and delicious, you'll love this Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bake. With just 290 calories per cup (227 g) serving, it's a great option for those looking to stay on track with their health goals while enjoying a satisfying meal.

Made with fresh broccoli, tender chicken, and a cheesy sauce that's sure to please, this bake is a crowd-pleaser that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck with friends. Not only is it a great source of protein and fiber, but it's also packed with vitamins and minerals that promote health and wellness.

In this article, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to make this delicious dish, including ingredients, preparation and cooking times, nutritional information, storage tips, health benefits, and more.

Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bake

To make this Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bake, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 lb. fresh broccoli florets, chopped
• 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation time for Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bake

The preparation time for this Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bake is about 20 minutes. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Next, cook the rice according to package instructions and set aside.

Cooking time for Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bake

The cooking time for this Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bake is about 45 minutes. To begin, cook the chicken in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned on all sides. Add the broccoli and continue cooking until the broccoli is tender and the chicken is cooked through. In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and salt and pepper until well combined. Add the cooked rice, chicken, and broccoli to the bowl and stir until everything is evenly coated in the sauce. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the mixture is heated through. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutritional information for Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bake

Here is the nutritional information for one cup (227 g) of Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bake:

• calories: 290
• Total fat: 17g
• Saturated fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 67mg
• Sodium: 547mg
• Total carbohydrates: 14g
• Dietary fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 21g

Ways to customize Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bake

One of the great things about this Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bake is that there are many ways to customize it to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Swap out the chicken for shrimp or ground beef.
• Try using different cheeses, such as mozzarella or Parmesan.
• Add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots.
• Use brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber.

Storage tips for Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bake

If you have leftovers of this Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bake, here are some tips for storing them:

• Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• To reheat, place the leftovers in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
• You can also reheat the leftovers in the oven by covering the dish with foil and heating at 350°F (180°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.

Health benefits of Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bake

This Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bake offers a number of health benefits, including:

• Packed with protein: Chicken is a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles and tissues in the body.
• Rich in fiber: Broccoli is high in fiber, which promotes healthy digestion, reduces inflammation, and may even reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.
• Promotes bone health: Cheese is a good source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
• May boost immunity: The vitamins and minerals in broccoli, chicken, and cheese may help support a healthy immune system.

Serving suggestions for Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bake

There are a number of ways to serve this Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bake to make it even more delicious. Some serving suggestions include:

• Top with freshly chopped parsley or chives for added flavor and color.
• Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables to round out the meal.
• Pair with your favorite white wine or beer for a perfect pairing.

Reviews for Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bake

Here are a few reviews from people who have tried this Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bake:

• "This was delicious and so easy to make! My whole family loved it." - Sarah
• "The combination of chicken, broccoli, and cheese is perfect. Will definitely be making this again." - Mark
• "This bake is so comforting and filling. Perfect for a chilly night in." - Emily

History of Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bake

While the exact origins of Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Bake are unclear, the dish has become a popular comfort food in many American households. Its combination of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce makes it a satisfying and delicious meal that's perfect for any occasion.