Baked Chicken And Broccoli For Two
A comforting baked chicken and broccoli dish with creamy mushroom sauce, topped with cheese and breadcrumbs, perfect for a cozy family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in a 9-inch square pan and drizzle with melted butter.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes.
- Cook the frozen broccoli according to package directions; drain.
- Arrange the cooked broccoli around the chicken in the pan.
- In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and broccoli.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top and season with paprika.
- Bake for an additional 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice or your favorite herbs before baking. If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken or a homemade white sauce can be a great substitute. You can also replace Cheddar cheese with Gruyère or mozzarella for a different taste. Ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed rice to soak up the delicious sauce. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside garlic bread or mashed potatoes. If you're looking for more chicken recipes, explore options like Golden Chicken And Orange Sauce or Chicken Something Different for additional inspiration.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Chicken And Broccoli For Two contains roughly 1398 calories, with 73g protein, 119g carbohydrates, and 77g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (234% of the Daily Value), protein (147% of the Daily Value), and calcium (116% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1600mg per serving (70% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli! Just steam it until tender before adding it to the dish. Fresh broccoli will give a vibrant color and a slightly different texture compared to frozen, but it will work perfectly in this recipe.
What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?
If you don't have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, cornflakes, or even panko can be excellent alternatives. For a gluten-free option, try using ground almonds or gluten-free breadcrumbs to maintain the crunchy topping.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish, assemble it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).