Chicken & Broccoli Bake Supreme: A Family Favorite
Overview
The Chicken & Broccoli Bake Supreme is a cherished family recipe known for its rich and elegant flavor. A perfect blend of chicken, broccoli, and a creamy sauce, this dish is a delightful way to elevate your weeknight dinners. Serve it over rice with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal that’s both hearty and sophisticated.
Recipe Snapshot
- Name: Chicken & Broccoli Bake Supreme
- Category: Chicken Breast
- Keywords: Chicken, Poultry, Meat, Weeknight, Oven, < 4 Hours
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: 662.1 kcal per serving
- Aggregate Rating: 5 stars
- Review Count: 3
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 662.1 kcal
- Fat Content: 47.6 g
- Saturated Fat Content: 22.7 g
- Cholesterol Content: 181.9 mg
- Sodium Content: 1135.4 mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 11.4 g
- Fiber Content: 0.3 g
- Sugar Content: 3.9 g
- Protein Content: 44.4 g
Ingredients
- 6 boneless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup white wine
- 2 cups broccoli stems, defrosted if frozen
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 tsp curry powder
- 3 tbsp black pepper
- 1 – 2 cups cheddar cheese, grated
Instructions
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Prepare the Broccoli:
- Defrost the broccoli thoroughly if it is frozen. Set aside.
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Cook the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, sauté the boneless chicken breasts and garlic in the chicken broth and white wine. Cook for about 4 minutes on each side or until the chicken is no longer pink.
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Mix the Sauce:
- In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, and spices (curry powder and black pepper).
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Assemble the Bake:
- In a casserole dish, layer the thawed broccoli first, then add the cooked chicken.
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Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 35 minutes, or until the mixture bubbles.
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Add Cheese:
- Remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese on top, and return it to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is slightly browned.
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Serve:
- Serve hot, preferably over a bed of rice with a side of crisp green salad.
Cooking Tips & Variations
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Substitutions:
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use light mayonnaise.
- You can replace cheddar cheese with a milder cheese like Monterey Jack if preferred.
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Additions:
- Adding sliced mushrooms to the sautéed chicken can enhance the umami flavor of the dish.
- For extra texture, sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top of the cheese before the final bake.
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Serving Suggestions:
- Pair this dish with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
- A glass of Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Background & Family History
The Chicken & Broccoli Bake Supreme has been a staple in my family for as long as I can remember. Its creamy texture and elegant presentation make it a go-to for special occasions and comforting weeknight meals alike. The recipe has evolved slightly over the years, but its core—rich, flavorful chicken combined with tender broccoli and a luscious sauce—remains unchanged, preserving the essence of the family tradition.
Conclusion
The Chicken & Broccoli Bake Supreme is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace of flavors and textures that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. This dish is a testament to the beauty of combining simple ingredients to create something extraordinary, a true reflection of the saying, “Cooking is love made visible.” Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this bake is sure to impress and become a beloved favorite in your home as well.
Enjoy this classic, flavorful dish and make it a part of your family traditions, just as it has been in mine. Happy cooking!