Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Serving Size: 1 generous portion
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large skillet
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
Bring a pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2–3 minutes until they become bright green and slightly tender. Drain immediately and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 6–8 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned and fully cooked. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for one minute until fragrant.
Stir in the cream cheese until smooth. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream, stirring constantly until the sauce becomes silky.
Mix in half of the mozzarella cheese and all of the Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until completely melted and creamy.
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the cooked broccoli evenly across the prepared baking dish.
Top with the cooked chicken pieces.
Pour the creamy cheese sauce evenly over everything.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese across the top.
Step 6: Bake
Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
Pro Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker dinner.
- Fresh broccoli provides the best texture, but frozen broccoli works well after thawing and draining.
- Add cooked bacon for extra smoky flavor.
- A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds gentle heat.
- Allow the casserole to rest before serving so the sauce thickens slightly.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs perfectly with:
- Cauliflower rice
- Garlic butter zucchini noodles
- Roasted asparagus
- Mixed green salad
- Steamed green beans
- Keto dinner rolls
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Instructions
Allow the casserole to cool completely before wrapping tightly or transferring to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 2–3 minutes.
For the best texture, warm the casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes until heated through.
Variations
Bacon Ranch Version: Stir cooked bacon and a teaspoon of ranch seasoning into the sauce.
Spicy Keto Casserole: Add diced jalapeños and pepper jack cheese.
Mushroom Lover’s Version: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the chicken before assembling.
Extra Cheesy: Blend cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan for an even richer topping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole up to one day in advance, cover, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs provide extra flavor and remain wonderfully juicy.
Is frozen broccoli okay?
Yes. Thaw it completely and drain well to prevent excess moisture from thinning the sauce.
How do I know when it’s done?
The casserole is ready when the cheese is bubbly, lightly browned, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 485
- Protein: 36g
- Total Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Net Carbohydrates: 5g
- Sugar: 3g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
- Sodium: 520mg
- Potassium: 610mg
- Calcium: 280mg
- Iron: 1.8mg