Cheesy Broccoli and Chicken Bake is a hearty, keto-friendly dish that brings comfort food vibes without the carbs. Packed with protein, creamy cheeses, and nutrient-rich broccoli, it’s both satisfying and wholesome. This one-pan meal comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping. With its rich, savory flavor and melty, cheesy goodness, it proves that healthy eating can be absolutely delicious. Perfect for anyone following a keto or paleo lifestyle who’s short on time but big on taste.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups cooked diced chicken breast
- 1 1/2 cups chopped broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a small baking dish (around 8×8-inch or equivalent) with cooking spray or butter.
- Steam or microwave the chopped broccoli florets for about 3–4 minutes until just tender but still bright green. Drain any excess moisture and set aside.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and heavy whipping cream. Stir until smooth and well blended.
- Add the garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the cream cheese mixture. Mix thoroughly to season.
- Fold in the cooked diced chicken breast, steamed broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spoon or spatula.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 420
Protein (g): 36
Fat (g): 28
Carbohydrates (g): 6
Fiber (g): 2
Sugar (g): 2
Sodium (mg): 540
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover Cheesy Broccoli and Chicken Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish in a tightly sealed container or wrapped well in aluminum foil for up to 2 months. For best results, cool the bake completely before refrigerating or freezing.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, place the desired portion in an oven-safe dish and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes, or until heated through. Cover with foil to retain moisture and prevent the cheese from over-browning. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating. Reheating in the oven helps maintain the best texture and flavor.
Ingredient Swaps & Enhancements
To boost the nutritional value of this dish while keeping it paleo-friendly, consider adding sautéed spinach or kale for extra fiber and micronutrients like iron and vitamin K. Diced mushrooms or cauliflower florets can also enhance texture and provide additional fiber. To increase the protein content, add another 1/2 cup of cooked chicken or stir in chopped hard-boiled eggs. For a more nutrient-dense cheese alternative, swap cheddar with a grass-fed variety or use nutritional yeast combined with cashew cream for a dairy-free option.
