Get ready to transform your ordinary weeknight dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience that will have your family rushing to the table! This mouthwatering Family Style Chicken Dish combines the perfect blend of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that's guaranteed to become an instant family favorite. Whether you're a busy parent looking for a quick and delicious meal or a home cook wanting to impress your loved ones, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food that promises to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare the chicken breasts by rinsing them under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add a small amount of oil. Once hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear each side for about 5 minutes, or until they are golden brown. This step adds flavor and color to the chicken.
- While the chicken is searing, prepare the broccoli florets. You can either steam them for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp or blanch them in boiling water for the same amount of time. Drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until well combined. This mixture will provide a creamy base for the dish.
- Once the chicken is seared, transfer the chicken breasts to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread the steamed broccoli evenly over the chicken.
- Pour the cream of chicken soup and cheese mixture over the chicken and broccoli, making sure to cover them evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top of the dish. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust as it bakes.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the chicken from drying out during cooking.
- Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through and the flavors to meld.
- After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
- Serve the family-style chicken dish warm, spooning the creamy sauce over the chicken and broccoli. Enjoy with your favorite sides, such as rice or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Always ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Use a meat thermometer to check.
- Searing Secrets: When searing the chicken, make sure your skillet is hot and use a small amount of oil to achieve that perfect golden-brown exterior.
- Cheese Tip: For extra flavor, try using a blend of cheeses like sharp cheddar and monterey jack for a more complex taste profile.
- Broccoli Preparation: Don't overcook your broccoli - keep it bright green and tender-crisp to maintain its nutritional value and texture.
- Resting is Crucial: Always let the dish rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful chicken.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this dish partially in advance by seasoning the chicken and preparing the sauce ahead of time, making weeknight cooking a breeze.
- Customize Your Dish: Feel free to swap broccoli with other vegetables like cauliflower or asparagus to keep things interesting and suit your family's preferences.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 110mg
