Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
When you try this Chicken and Broccoli recipe, you’ll quickly understand why it’s a family favorite.
I love how it combines tender chicken with vibrant broccoli, creating a dish that’s not only comforting but also packed with nutrition. The creamy sauce brings everything together, making each bite irresistible.
It’s simple to prepare, so I can whip it up even on busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in veggies for those picky eaters!
Whether I’m hosting friends or just feeding my family, this recipe always gets rave reviews and leaves everyone wanting more. You’ll love it too!
Ingredients of Chicken and Broccoli
When it comes to whipping up a dish that everyone at the table will enjoy, Chicken and Broccoli is a classic choice. It’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate—creamy, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying. The best part? It’s super easy to make, so you won’t be sweating over a hot stove for hours. Instead, you can spend that time relaxing or even catching up on your favorite show.
Plus, it’s a wonderful way to sneak in some greens for those who mightn’t be the biggest veggie fans. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be adding this recipe to your weekly rotation.
Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious Chicken and Broccoli dish:
- 2 (10 ounce) packages frozen chopped broccoli
- 2 (10 1/2 ounce) cans cream of chicken soup, undiluted
- 0.5 (10 1/2 ounce) soup can milk
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 4 teaspoons lemon juice
- 3 cooked chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Now, let’s chat about some of these ingredients. Frozen broccoli is a lifesaver; it’s convenient and retains its nutrients. You could swap it for fresh broccoli if you’re feeling ambitious, but let’s be honest—who has the time?
The cream of chicken soup adds that rich, creamy texture that makes this dish so comforting, and mayonnaise? Well, it brings everything together in a way that’s just divine. Also, don’t skip the lemon juice; it adds a bright zing that balances out the creaminess.
How to Make Chicken and Broccoli
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s jump into making this scrumptious Chicken and Broccoli dish. First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F. This is important because, trust me, there’s nothing worse than having your dish ready to go only to realize you forgot to heat things up.
While your oven is warming, take a 9×13 pan and layer it with 2 (10 ounce) packages of frozen chopped broccoli. Just spread it out evenly across the bottom—no need for perfection here, we’re not aiming for a Michelin star, just a delicious meal.
Next, it’s showtime for the chicken. Take those 3 cooked chicken breasts that you’ve cut into bite-sized pieces and sprinkle them over the broccoli.
Now, let’s move on to the creamy goodness that brings everything together. In a bowl, mix together 2 (10 1/2 ounce) cans of undiluted cream of chicken soup, half a soup can of milk, 1 cup of mayonnaise, and 4 teaspoons of lemon juice. I know, it sounds like a lot of creamy goodness, and it is. But that’s what makes it comforting.
Stir it all together until it’s well combined and smooth—just think of it as a little workout for your arm. Once that’s done, pour this luscious mixture over the chicken and broccoli. Make sure to spread it out as evenly as possible.
Now, simply pop the whole thing into your preheated oven and let it bake for 45 to 50 minutes. I usually set a timer and use that time to clean up the kitchen or maybe binge-watch a couple of episodes of my latest obsession—because every good cook deserves a little break, right?
When the timer goes off, take a peek—if it’s bubbling and golden on top, you’ve hit the jackpot! Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, and enjoy the satisfied smiles around the table. Who knew that a simple mix of chicken, broccoli, and cream could create such happiness?
Chicken and Broccoli Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to shake things up a bit, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try with this Chicken and Broccoli recipe.
Instead of frozen broccoli, fresh broccoli florets add a nice crunch. You can swap out the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom for a different flavor.
If you’re feeling adventurous, add some cheese—like cheddar or mozzarella—into the mix for a creamy twist. For a healthier option, replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
And if you’re not a fan of chicken, try using shrimp or tofu instead. The possibilities are endless!
Additional Tips & Notes
Experimenting with substitutions and variations can lead to some delightful surprises in your Chicken and Broccoli dish.
For a healthier twist, try Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also swap out the cream of chicken soup for a homemade version using broth and flour.
If you’re feeling adventurous, add spices like garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.
Don’t forget to adjust cooking times if you add more veggies—like bell peppers or carrots.
Finally, serve it over rice or pasta for a filling meal. Enjoy the process, and let your creativity shine in the kitchen!